preface

It is a fact that gases, vapours and mists escape during the production, processing, transportation and storage of flammable substances in the chemical and petrochemical industries, as well as in the production of mineral oil and natural gas, in mining and in many other sectors. During many processes, especially in food industries, combustible dusts are also created.These flammable gases, vapours, mists, and dusts form an explosive atmosphere with the oxygen in the air. If this atmosphere is ignited, explosions take place, which can result in severe harm to human life and property.To avoid the danger of explosions, protective specifications in the form of laws, regulations, and standards have been developed in most countries, which are aimed at ensuring that a high level of safety is observed. Due to the growing international economic link, extensive progress has been made in harmonizing regulations for explosion protection.The conditions for a complete harmonization were created in the European Union by the 94/9/EC and 99/92/EC Directives. However, there is still much to be done in this area world-wide. The aim of this brochure is to provide both experts and interested laymen with an overview of the field of explosion protection, in conjunction with electrical apparatus and installations. It does not replace the study of the relevant statutory regulations and applicable standards. In mining, miners underground have always lived under the threat of firedamp explosions. Herein lies the origins of explosion protection, which has been consistently developed in industrialized countries, and which now provides a high level of safety.