ATEX risk control in industrial facilities and processes

The presence of explosive atmospheres (ATEX) is a critical risk for the safety of people, facilities and business continuity. Although ATEX accidents are rare in Spain, their consequences can be serious and immediate. For this reason, ATEX risk management is a legal obligation and a key element within occupational risk prevention and industrial safety.

Apave accompanies organizations in the identification, evaluation and control of ATEX risk, providing a rigorous technical vision and solutions adapted to each type of activity.

What is ATEX risk?

The ATEX risk arises when, in a working environment, explosive atmospheres can form from combustible gases, vapors, mists or dusts, in the presence of oxygen and an ignition source. This risk does not only affect large industrial facilities. It can also be present in warehouses, silos, laboratories, commercial buildings, educational centers or tertiary facilities.

Sectors such as the chemical industry, oil and gas, food, waste management, transportation or service stations are particularly exposed, but any establishment using flammable substances can be affected.

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Why proper ATEX management is key?

ATEX risk control protects the life and health of workers, avoids significant material damage and ensures operational continuity. It also facilitates compliance with current ATEX regulations and the correct integration of this risk into the overall risk assessment of the facility.

Effective management is based on three fundamental principles: preventing the formation of explosive atmospheres, avoiding their ignition when they cannot be eliminated and reducing the effects of a possible explosion by means of appropriate technical and organizational measures.

How can we help you?

Apave helps companies to manage the ATEX risk in a clear, proportionate and understandable way, adapting the level of analysis to the real complexity of each installation.

We accompany the client throughout the entire process: from the explosion risk assessment, the classification of ATEX zones and the preparation of the explosion protection document, to the definition of preventive and protective measures. Our approach makes it possible to integrate the ATEX risk with the other risks present in the workplace, facilitating decision-making and the practical application of solutions.

ATEX regulatory framework in Spain

ATEX regulations in Spain are based on Directive 1999/92/EC, on the protection of workers from explosive atmospheres, and Directive 2014/34/EU, on equipment and protective systems intended for these environments. Both are implemented at the national level through Royal Decree 681/2003, which establishes the employer's obligations in terms of risk assessment, zone classification and specific documentation.

Process safety is a key element in preventing serious accidents in industrial activities involving hazardous substances, fluids and energy. In an increasingly demanding regulatory environment and with more complex technical processes, organizations need a structured approach to identify, assess and control risks throughout the entire life cycle of their facilities.

Apave is expanding its industrial risk analysis consultancy offering, accompanying its clients from the conception and engineering phases through to operation. Thanks to the Group's technical support and international synergies, we offer high value-added solutions that reinforce the safety, regulatory compliance and sustainability of industrial processes.