Life-cycle management of Ex Equipment
Large manufacturing companies use explosion-proof (EX) equipment to safely operate in hazardous environments with flammable gases, vapors, or combustible dust. However, proper life-cycle management is crucial to avoid risks and ensure the continued safety of this equipment.
EEMP and Life-cycle Management of Ex Plant
Ex equipment must be managed throughout its lifecycle under an Electrical Engineering Management Plan (EEMP) as part of the Occupational Health and Safety Management System. This includes regular reviews and audits to ensure compliance.
Record Keeping
Maintain records of all explosion-protected electrical equipment, including certificates, approval and serial numbers, and installation locations on-site. Store verification dossiers in an accessible location for the Manager of Electrical Engineering. Flexible cable records can be kept at licensed facilities.
Application of Ex Plant Life-cycle Management
This applies to site-owned, contractors, and rented equipment. The site may accept contractors’ or renters’ arrangements, but the Manager of Electrical Engineering must verify compliance with this Technical Reference.
Selection of Electrical Explosion-Protected Equipment
Equipment must meet specified criteria, including information transfer and provision. Standards of Engineering Practice should detail design and information requirements to prevent electrical arcing faults from compromising explosion-protection properties.
Acceptance of Explosion-Protected Equipment at the Site
Standards of Engineering Practice should outline acceptance requirements, including:
- Competency requirements for assessment.
- Responsibility for acceptance.
- Information as specified in the gazette notice.
- Signed verification of compliance to Australian Standards for new, hired, overhauled, or repaired equipment.
Installation and Commissioning of Explosion-Protected Electrical Equipment
Site installation and commissioning should ensure:
- Conducting or reviewing operational risk assessments.
- Implementing risk controls from assessments and manager specifications.
- Meeting certification, approval, and manufacturer’s requirements.
- Ensuring personnel competency.
- Inspecting equipment after underground transport.
Operation of Explosion-Protected Electrical Equipment
Ex equipment should be energised in hazardous zones only when verified by a qualified electrical person as being in an explosion-protected condition.
Control of Overhaul and Repair Facilities
Ex equipment must be overhauled or repaired at licensed facilities. Sites follow a selection and review process for service providers, including:
- Compliance with repair, overhaul, and pre-overhaul requirements.
- Verification of contractor credentials.
- Specifying and reviewing required reports.
- Ensuring service providers are equipped and competent.
- Maintaining a preferred list of service providers.
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