Description

ABEBA ATEX BOOTS

Ignition source electrostatic discharge

The electrostatic discharge is caused by an imbalance of potential on charged objects or people. A human body which is not provided with an ATEX/ ESD-shoe can be charged up to several kilovolts (kv). This generated charge can be decreased by the use of ATEX/ ESD-shoes. One way to estimate the risk of electrostatic discharge is to evaluate the minimum ignition energy (MIE) of the explosive atmosphere. The MIE - measured in millijoule (mJ) - is a parameter to describe the ignition sensitivity of an explosive atmosphere. 3 kv is needed to cause a noticeable sensation to a person. This is similar to an ignition energy of 0.7 mJ. There are explosive substances, for example Benzol, that may explode at an energy of only 0.2 mJ.

Walking Test

The experience shows that it is not enough just to control the resistance value of the ATEX/ ESD-shoes. To assure a sufficient protection against the static charge of employees, we recommend to add the walking test (according to EN 61340-4-5, charge must be below 100 V) to complete your security program for explosive areas.

If ATEX/ ESD-shoes are used the following facts should be considered:

Effective ATEX/ ESD-protection is only assured by using ATEX/ ESD-shoes in combination with an ESD-floor
Dirt or dust on the outsole may lead to an isolating layer
Orthopaedic insoles and modifications must not affect the resistance of the shoe

ATEX = ATmosphére EXplosible (explosive atmosphere)

Accidents at work in explosive areas (EX-areas) mostly have a bigger impact than in other areas. That’s why it is even more important to pay attention to the work safety in these special areas. Where explosive air/ gas or air/ dust mixtures can’t be embanked the following activities must be initiated:

Classification of endangered areas into zones
Avoiding of ignition sources
Constructive explosion protection

One of the ignition sources can be the electrical discharge. This can be effectively avoided by antistatic garments, materials and tools. Our antistatic shoes have been used in ESD-areas (Electro Static Discharge) for years. Combined with an antistatic floor covering ABEBA ESD shoes avoid the electrostatic charge of the wearer.

The styles of our ATEX range are the first shoes within Europe certified for the use in EX-areas. We would certainly provide you with the corresponding TÜV certificates if needed.

The following standards have been taken into account: