Identificación, análisis y evaluación de riesgos de atmósferas explosivas en una planta de elaboración y manipulación de productos agroquímicos

Abstract

An explosive atmosphere is defined as the mixture with air, under atmospheric conditions, of flammable substances, in the form of gas, vapour, mists, dusts and fibres, which after ignition, combustion spreads to the entire unburned mixture. According to Royal Decree 681/2003, on the protection of the health and safety of workers exposed to risks derived from explosive atmospheres in the workplace, any installation that handles or stores flammable substances must be designed, constructed, operated and maintained with the aim of minimizing any escape of flammable products, thus avoiding the risk of formation of explosive atmospheres. This normative requirement is translated in the accomplishment of an identification, analysis and evaluation of risks of formation of explosive atmospheres. The results of the assessment will make it possible to establish preventive measures to prevent the emergence of ignition sources in areas at risk of explosive atmospheres. The aim of this communication is to carry out the identification, analysis and risk assessment of explosive atmospheres in an agrochemical processing and handling plant.