Surface preparation is a crucial process for many industries. It ensures the longevity of materials. However, some workplaces may require special processes due to hazards present. ATEX zones are a good example of such workplaces.
Due to the presence of explosives, surface preparation in ATEX zones can be dangerous. That’s why special measures must be considered. These special measures are classified and listed by international organizations such as ISO. These comprehensive guidelines are critical in ensuring workplace safety.
In this article, we’ll discuss ISO’s surface preparation standards in ATEX zones.
Understanding ATEX Zones
Before discussing the necessary precautions or the standards, we must obtain a reliable understanding of ATEX zones. ATEX is a derivative of the French term, “ATmosphères EXplosibles”. The name refers to two European Union directives for controlling explosive atmospheres.
Depending on the present risks, ATEX zones are divided into different sub-categories:
Zone 0: An area where an explosive atmosphere is present continuously or for long periods.
Zone 1: An area where an explosive atmosphere is likely to occur in normal operation occasionally.
Zone 2: An area where an explosive atmosphere is not likely to occur in normal operation but, if it does, will persist for a short period only.
Zone 20, 21, 22: These zones apply similarly but are specific to combustible dust.
As mentioned earlier, correct classification of ATEX zones and their sub-categories is crucial in ensuring safety. Correct categorization allows professionals to make more informed decisions, regarding which safety standards to follow.
ISO Standards for Surface Preparation in ATEX Zones
The International Standards Organisation is a highly reputable organization, that provides international standards and guidelines. Safety protocols provided by ISO are a reliable set of standards, that ensure workplace safety in various industries.
It’s not any different when it comes to surface preparation standards in ATEX zones. ISO provides several standards for such activities, some of the key standards are given below.
ISO 8501: Preparation of Steel Substrates Before Application of Paints and Related Products
This series of standards covers various aspects of surface preparation, including visual assessment, surface cleanliness, and the removal of rust and other contaminants. It consists of several parts, each focusing on different elements of surface preparation:
ISO 8501-1: This part provides pictorial standards for evaluating the degree of cleanliness of steel substrates after removing rust and other contaminants.
ISO 8501-2: It specifies the preparation grades of previously coated steel substrates after local removal of previous coatings.
ISO 8501-3: This part covers the preparation grades of welds, cut edges, and other areas with surface imperfections.
These standards ensure that the surface is adequately prepared to receive protective coatings, which are crucial in preventing corrosion and ensuring the integrity of structures in ATEX zones.
ISO 8502: Tests for the Assessment of Surface Cleanliness
ISO 8502 outlines various methods for assessing surface cleanliness. This includes tests for dust, soluble salts, and other contaminants that may affect the adhesion and performance of protective coatings.
ISO 8502-3: This part describes the assessment of dust on steel surfaces prepared for painting using the pressure-sensitive tape method.
ISO 8502-6 and ISO 8502-9: These parts provide methods for the extraction and analysis of soluble salts, which can significantly impact coating performance in ATEX zones.
Ensuring surface cleanliness is vital to prevent potential hazards associated with explosive atmospheres.
ISO 8503: Surface Roughness Characteristics of Blast-Cleaned Steel Substrates
Surface roughness plays a crucial role in the adhesion of protective coatings. ISO 8503 provides methods for evaluating surface roughness, ensuring that the substrate meets the requirements for optimal coating performance.
ISO 8503-1: This part defines the specifications and definitions for surface roughness.
ISO 8503-2: It describes the method for the determination of surface roughness using comparators.
ISO 8503-3: This part outlines the calibration procedures for measuring instruments.
Proper surface roughness ensures better coating adhesion, which is essential for maintaining the integrity of structures in ATEX zones.
ISO 12944: Paints and Varnishes – Corrosion Protection of Steel Structures by Protective Paint Systems
ISO 12944 is a comprehensive standard that provides guidelines for the corrosion protection of steel structures using protective paint systems. It covers the selection of paint systems, surface preparation, and the application process.
ISO 12944-4: This part specifies the types of surface preparation and the preparation grades required for different levels of corrosive environments.
ISO 12944-5: It details the various paint systems and their suitability for different environmental conditions, including ATEX zones.
By following these guidelines, industries can ensure long-term protection and safety in hazardous environments.
Conclusion
The longevity of materials is the intended outcome for many industrial practices. Surface preparation is one of the key processes of longevity. Yet, some workplaces present a set of unique challenges, such as ATEX zones.
ATEX zones are highly dangerous workplaces due to the presence of explosives. In such places, additional protective measures are needed to perform surface preparation safely. These measures are standardized by organizations such as ISO to ensure safe practices, far from subjectivity. Following these guidelines can be essential in ensuring longevity while providing a safe work environment.
