Practical experience with inspection in plants at risk of explosive atmospheres

Being professional inspectors in the field of Ex-protection, the authors of this paper recorded numerous cases of problematic design, installation and maintenance work executed in almost each inspected plant at risk of explosive atmospheres. Although considerable effort has been made during the last decade to improve the situation and to raise personnel competency to a desirable level by periodic training of persons involved in design, installation, maintenance and repair in the field of Ex-protection, the situation seems to be getting better very slowly. This paper presents examples of non-conformities usually found in inspection, gives some practical guidance for reaching the required level of safety while reducing the cost of inspection and maintenance by the use of rationalized design and explains some modern diagnostic methods applicable in the inspection of Ex equipment. At the end, this paper speaks about highly desirable certification of competencies which is essential in making a decision about who is capable of performing its task in a desirable manner.