What is EN ISO 20887:2011?

EN ISO 20887:2011 is a technical standard that provides guidelines and requirements for the design and implementation of effective communication systems in hazardous areas. This international standard focuses on intrinsically safe systems, which are specifically designed to prevent the ignition of hazardous substances in explosive atmospheres.

Understanding Hazardous Areas

In order to fully comprehend the importance and relevance of EN ISO 20887:2011, it is crucial to first understand what constitutes a hazardous area. A hazardous area is one where concentrations of flammable gases, vapors, or dust particles are present in quantities sufficient to create a fire or explosion hazard. Such environments are commonly found in industries such as petrochemical, oil and gas, pharmaceutical, and mining.

Hazardous areas are classified into zones based on the likelihood and duration of the presence of hazardous substances. The classification system helps in determining the types of electrical equipment and communication systems that can be safely installed and operated in each zone.

The Importance of EN ISO 20887:2011

EN ISO 20887:2011 plays a vital role in ensuring the safety of personnel working in hazardous areas. By providing comprehensive guidelines and requirements, this standard helps organizations establish communication systems that minimize the risk of electrical equipment becoming an ignition source for potential explosions.

The standard emphasizes the use of intrinsically safe systems, which are designed to prevent the release of enough energy to ignite hazardous substances. Intrinsically safe systems limit the available electrical and thermal energy to non-incendive levels, rendering them incapable of causing an explosion. This is achieved through measures such as circuit design, component selection, and installation techniques.

Implementing EN ISO 20887:2011

Implementing EN ISO 20887:2011 involves a systematic approach that includes proper risk assessment, equipment selection, and installation procedures. It is crucial for organizations working in hazardous areas to ensure that their communication systems comply with this standard to guarantee the safety of their personnel and the surrounding environment.

Furthermore, regular maintenance, inspection, and testing of the communication systems are essential to ensure continued compliance with the standard. This ensures that any potential faults or deviations are promptly identified and rectified in order to maintain the intrinsically safe nature of the communication systems.

In conclusion, EN ISO 20887:2011 is a critical technical standard that guides the design, implementation, and maintenance of effective communication systems in hazardous areas. By understanding and complying with this standard, organizations can significantly reduce the risk of electrical equipment causing explosions and prioritize the safety of their personnel and facilities.