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Meeting safety and process requirements at the same time is sometimes a challenge, especially in the pharmaceutical industry. Dust-handling equipment has to be equipped with explosion protective systems, which must also comply with all hygiene and sanitary requirements in production. The solution: Vent panels that can be used to produce hygienically sensitive powders.

The EGV HYP vent panel is an economical solution to the problem described, according to the strict criteria of the EHEDG (European Hygienic Engineering & Design Group). Specially designed for hygienically demanding processes, it protects the vessel in the event of an explosion by releasing flame and pressure. The smooth surface with the patented, full-flat, chamfered gasket system prevents deposits during the production process and during the cleaning of the system and thereby cross-contamination between batch processes. With the new, contrasting blue color of the seal, it is also easy to see if the seal is damaged and/or a mounting failure has happened.

The EGV HYP can be used without hesitation in critical systems such as spray dryers with / without CIP cleaning, fluid bed dryers and mixers and therefore offers a cost-effective safety solution according to the requirements of hygienic design.

Fig.1: Certified in accordance with EHEDG: EGV HYP with patented, bevelled sealing concept for absolute hygiene. 

www.rembe.de

Introduction

In industries where flammable gases, vapours, and dusts are present, ensuring the safety of employees is of paramount importance. The European Union's ATEX Directive 2014/34/EU, aim to regulate equipment used in potentially explosive atmospheres, requiring companies to implement safety measures that mitigate the risk of ignition and protect personnel.

Background

All chemical manufacturing facilities that handle or specialise in the production of volatile chemicals should adhere to ATEX regulations to protect employees from potential hazards. One of the key aspects of ATEX compliance is the provision of safety equipment, including safety showers and eye wash stations.

The Challenge and Solution

Compliance with ATEX Regulations: The company needs to comply with ATEX Directive 2014/34/EU, which requires the implementation of safety measures to prevent explosions in areas with potentially explosive atmospheres. This includes providing ATEX-compliant safety showers.

Employee Safety: The safety of employees is a top priority. You need to ensure rapid and effective decontamination in case of chemical exposure.

Equipment Selection: Choosing the right ATEX-compliant equipment is essential.  You must evaluate the specific requirements of your facility, including location, potential hazard levels, and the number of showers needed.

The Solution

Get peace of mind knowing that safety showers from Aqua Safety Showers will be manufactured from corrosion resistant materials and come with a two-year warranty, further promoting a safety-conscious workplace culture.

www.aqua-showers.com

UK’s leading safety services company begins offering new option to its Rooftop Worker Scheme training course approved by the Mast & Tower Safety (MATS) Group and accredited by Energy & Utility Skills Register (EUSR).

Arco Professional Safety Services has created an industry approved blended learning option to an existing working at height training course. The course aims to provide delegates with the skills and experience required to safely access flat roofs in protected and unprotected areas. The blended option allows delegates of the course to complete the educational section of the course online, previously the entire course had to be completed in-person in a structured one-day session.

This blended learning version of the Rooftop Worker Scheme provides a flexible learning approach with bespoke integrated virtual reality exercises. It is also more cost effective than the traditional course at a 20% reduced rate while offering the same quality of learning, experience and certification.

As a blended learning course, participants will be required to complete seven online modules and a practical training and assessment session at one of four possible sites. The online portion of the course has training material that can be accessed by delegates as often as required. Once completed, candidates have 90 days to attend a practical assessment at one of Arco’s state of the art Safety Centres in Stafford, Bracknell, Trafford or Linlithgow (Scotland).

Topics covered in the Rooftop Worker Scheme syllabus include:

• Legislation for working at height
  • Risk assessment awareness
  • Rooftop hazards and control measures
  • PPE – pre use checks and fitting harness, helmet, fall arrest and work positioning lanyards
  • Safe use of portable ladders
  • Edge protection
  • Horizontal and vertical systems (fixed and temporary)
  • Climbing techniques using harnesses, lanyards, and fixed systems
  • Awareness of emergency procedures

Falls from height continued to be the number one cause of work-related deaths in 2023 according to the latest statistics from the Health & Safety Executive (HSE).

Steve Dawson, Manager – Working at Height Training at Arco Professional Safety Services, said: “When it comes to working from height, regard for safety is paramount. We’re proud to be able to offer this brand-new training course carefully designed with the considerations to keep people safe when working on rooftops.

As industry leaders in working at height practices, Arco understands the necessity to provide these learning opportunities with specialist support to ensure the safety of workers where it matters most.”

This course is designed for all personnel that are required to access flat roof areas using a variety of access systems and harness-based fall protection equipment during their duties. The Rooftop Worker Scheme certificate will be valid for three years upon completion of the course.

To find out more about this course, see upcoming course dates and to enquire about booking, visit: https://www.arcoservices.co.uk/training/course-finder/working-at-height-training/rooftop-safety-training/rooftop-safety-blended-learning

So, you’ve specified the correct cable gland for the application. You’ve checked that the gland is suitable for the method of protection employed. Job done, right?  Not always!

Most hazardous area cable gland manufacturers A2F & E1WF type glands have a special condition for safe use requiring cables to be clamped to prevent twisting or pulling. EN60079-14 states that “a clamp should be placed as close as practical to the gland” - preferably within 300mm from the end of the gland. EN60079-14 also states that cables shall be routed straight to prevent the cable seal being compromised by lateral tension.

A poorly supported cable compromises the integrity of the equipment, invalidates the Hazardous Area certification and most importantly poses a serious safety risk to both plant and personnel.

Compatible with most major gland designs, the Omni® Accessory from Blayds Group ensures that cables are routed straight from the cable gland - preventing twisting or pulling of the cable whilst in operation. This securing of the cable also stops unnecessary pressure on the gland rear IP seal – a common place for water ingress. Manufactured from nickel plated brass, the Omni® Accessory also provides an earth connection, bonding point, integrated high-temperature silicone Ingress Protection washer and a cable identification location all in one easy-to-install accessory. The design also allows for disassembly and inspection of the gland without the need to move the cable marker as is often the case in many standard installations.

So, to make sure your installation is fully compliant, fit the Omni® Accessory. One part – multiple benefits. To receive a free sample simply email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or visit www.blayds.com for more information

Peppers Cable Glands and Accessories are the ultimate in design and functionality and so beautifully engineered you will want to wear them.

Developed over the course of seventy-five years, Peppers has become the name synonymous with quality and excellence – from the products to the service, every bit of the Peppers buying cycle is intended to be first-class.

Providing designer products at project pricing, Peppers Cable Glands and Accessories look and feel expensive and are the industry choice across the world. No corners are cut in the making of them and if quality and reliability is essential to your business, then you will appreciate their worth.

Their value lies in both the excellence of the products and the service that accompanies them, and Peppers understands the importance of both.

Fast-paced supply chains often veer towards cheaper cable glands, but with that comes unmitigated risk. When missing or faulty parts create a torrent of issues further down the supply chain and multi-million-pound projects can be derailed on the back of one missed component, businesses will learn the value of paying for a complete, end-to-end service.

Peppers is now a thriving, growing brand, spearheaded by a managing director who had a deliberate and purposeful approach to Peppers' growth. The refusal to succumb to haste, borrow unnecessarily, or compete recklessly with larger counterparts, has been the cornerstone of their success.

“Customers choose our company, even if sometimes the products cost more than our competitors, not only because they know they are getting a superior cable gland but because they are getting it with a service that money simply cannot buy.” Tush Thakore, Managing Director.

So, with Peppers, you can expect to receive a first-class service perfectly accessorized by the quality of its product. But without doubt, the jewel in the Peppers crown is the unyielding commitment to being the cable gland and accessory supplier of the ages. Exquisitely engineered Cable Glands and Accessories you’d be forgiven to want to wear, and a service based on integrity and trust; customers find it impossible to get the same package anywhere else in the world.

Peppers cable glands and accessories are fully certified and compliant – if the label is as important to you as it should be, Peppers is one you’d be happy to show off

Peppers maintains a quality management system approved to ISO 9001 :2015, ISO/IEC 80079-34:2011 Explosive atmospheres - Part 34: Application of quality systems for equipment manufacture and an Environmental System approved to ISO 14001 :2004 as well as operating within Occupational Health and Safety Management (OHS) to BS OHS AS 18001.

Peppers commitment to providing the ultimate cable gland solution is unwavering; a combination of industry knowledge, exceptional service and extraordinary attention to detail should put them at the top of any ‘must-have supplier for 2024’ list.

www.cableglands.co.uk

Cat Pumps (U.K.) were contacted by an onshore wellsite operator looking for a complete pump and motor unit that was able to deliver the pressure and flowrate required for their water injection “downhole re-injection” system.

Following an online search, they discovered that Cat Pumps offer ATEX Pumps and Pump Motor Units that were a suitable solution for their application.

The operator, appraises and develops any hydrocarbons found at an onshore wellsite in the Weald Basin in the South of England, and wanted produced water from oil and gas fields to be reinjected into the formation to stimulate hydrocarbon production in aging wells known as water injection or water flooding. Produced water is very expensive to dispose of, so it is cost effective to re-inject into designated wells with compatible ground formations.

Cat Pumps has provided high-pressure pumps, pump systems and components to the well drilling industry for over 30 years. Due to the field-proven dependability and superior suction capabilities, our pumps have become the industry standard for water injection applications worldwide.

With field-proven dependability in applications around the globe, Cat Pumps provides the best value for water injection systems.

The onshore well operator advised:

“Cat Pumps had a very good understanding of our requirements. Their Technical support, after-purchase correspondence and ease of delivery to our location, made it a pleasure to do business. Any further requirements, we will contact Cat Pumps as our preferred supplier.”

   E: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.W: www.catpumps.co.uk

The Hydrogen Awards have been established as an annual measure of enterprise, innovation and excellence – in standards, implementation and thinking about the future and about bringing the use of hydrogen to all industries and sectors and to the public. While the Awards are based in the UK it is now obvious they have international appeal.

The finalist companies for the 2024 awards are listed below.

The results will be announced on February 27 at the Hydrogen Awards Dinner and Ceremony at Keele Hall.

BayoTech
Dubai Electricity Water Authority
Energy Safety Research Institute
First Hydrogen
GenHydro
GeoPura
Gexcon
Giancarlo Zema Design Group
HiiROC

HVS (Hydrogen Vehicle Systems)
Hydrogenscape
IKM Consulting
Johnson Matthey
Mattiq
McHenry Global Industries
Ohmium International
Parker HannifinUK
Toyota Motor Manufacturing

Finalist companies will have the opportunity to receive a category Winner or Award of Merit trophy on stage during the Awards’ presentation. The evening event last year was a huge success and pictures of the 2023 dinner and awards are on the website, including a list of Winners on the Results page. The event is expected to attract even greater attendance this year.

Planning to attend the Hydrogen Awards for the second year running, Robert Airey, Market Development Manager – Clean Energy at Parker Hannifin, comments: "With Parker’s 60 years of hydrogen experience we are delighted to not only be one of the named Finalist companies, but also be supporting other top performing companies across the sector as Headline Sponsor to the Hydrogen Awards. Looking at the list of Finalists, the hard work, innovation and dedication is evident as we all push towards enabling a greener energy future.”

Nick Herbert, Luxfer Gas Cylinders sales director:

“It’s inspiring to see a real passion for hydrogen in the automotive sector, and we commend the companies who have demonstrated industry-leading excellence, in order to achieve a shortlisting in this competitive category.  
 
“At Luxfer Gas Cylinders, we are committed to supporting the adoption of hydrogen internationally – our engineers have worked for over two decades building hydrogen systems for a whole range of transport modes, from HGVs, to buses, boats and even drones. 
 
“Alongside a significant legacy in gas storage and transportation, we’re at the very forefront of hydrogen innovation, constantly adapting our trusted technology and applying our vast experience to ensure our solutions reflect how the market is moving. We are proud to be involved in these awards because they represent everything Luxfer stands for – celebrating the journey towards a safe, clean and energy efficient world. We wish these finalists, and fellow pioneers, the very best of luck.”

Headline Sponsors Parker Hannifin  

https://www.parker.com/gb/en/solutions/hydrogen.html

Category Sponsors Luxfer Gas Cylinders

https://www.luxfercylinders.com

Category Sponsors Energy Research Accelerator

https://www.era.ac.uk

Supporting Partners HyDEX

https://hydex.ac.uk">https://hydex.ac.uk

Media Partners

H2 View 

https://www.h2-view.com

Engineering Hydrogen Solutions

https://engineeringhydrogensolutions.com

Places can be booked via the website and for more information please contact the event manager This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

RealWear, Inc., the pioneer of smart glasses for frontline workers, today announced at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) that RealWear Navigator® Z1 (play video), the world’s most advanced intrinsically safe (IS) head-mounted wearable, starts shipping today.   

RealWear received its official ATEX / IECEx Intrinsically Safe (IS) certification for RealWear Navigator Z1 (“Navigator Z1”), with consultation with i.safe MOBILE, a technology expert in IS product development. IS certification is granted after passing a plethora of tests (i.e. thermal, electrical integrity, mechanical durability, safety compliance, and explosion-proof testing), validating that the device, whose purpose is to boost productivity and enhance safety for frontline workers, will not cause an explosion where flammable particulates are present in the atmosphere. All consumer electronics that are typically deployed for worker productivity in a standard office environment--including iPhones, tablets, and immersive AR/VR headsets--are strictly prohibited in these zones.     

After publicly announcing Navigator Z1 hands-free computing solution, RealWear has received substantial pre-orders from more than a dozen countries in the oil and gas industry, signalling strong product demand globally, including a sizable order from a major customer in Saudi Arabia.   

Navigator Z1: Redefining Smart Glasses for Industry 

Navigator Z1 stands out as the most advanced and rugged smart glasses available globally, characterised by three distinct benefits: 

First, Navigator Z1 represents the pinnacle of RealWear’s product innovation, delivering unparalleled performance with exceptional power efficiency.  Navigator Z1 is powered by an advanced Qualcomm SnapDragon 6490 chipset with a built-in advanced AI engine.  The platform lays the foundation for RealWear’s broader AI Core vision for frontline workers. 

Second, the device now complies with strict ATEX/IECEx certifications. As oil and gas work environments can be extremely noisy, Navigator Z1 ensures voice recognition for fully hands-free use up to 100dBA. 

Third, Navigator Z1’s unique modular design, which RealWear pioneered, enables unprecedented customization including the ability to add an IS-certified thermal camera and a swappable battery. The eagerly anticipated Thermal by FLIR thermal camera module is scheduled for release in March. 

 “Worker safety and productivity must not be mutually exclusive,” said Dr. Chris Parkinson, RealWear’s cofounder and CEO.  “With so many consumer-grade gadgets being hyped to industry, we have delivered something truly modern and in high demand for critical work procedures.  With certification, we’re able to fulfil our strong pre-order backlog.  Navigator Z1 is laying the groundwork for an AI-enabled workforce in hazardous industries.”  

"As the global market for intrinsically safe devices continues to expand, the introduction of new and innovative IS devices is crucial,” said David Krebs, Executive Vice President of VDC, a market intelligence analyst with specialisation in rugged design. “Balancing worker safety while providing workers with the necessary digital solutions to enhance workflow efficiency in hazardous environments is a growing requirement and what RealWear has achieved with Navigator Z1.”  

“The design of the most powerful smart glasses for frontline professionals took incredible collaboration between RealWear and i.safe MOBILE,” said Dirk Amann, CTO of i.safe MOBILE. “We are pleased that we have been able to make a device that has met the requirements to achieve IECEx for use in explosive atmospheres.”  

Customers can purchase the full Navigator series directly via RealWear’s global reseller network. Shipping has commenced in Europe, including UK, Germany, France, Netherlands, and in the United Arab Emirates, as well as across the majority of the Asia-Pacific region including Southeast Asia, Singapore and Australia. Orders in North America, Canada, Japan, Mexico and much of Latin America will be fulfilled in March timeframe for C1D1 zones.    

Navigator Z1 is part of the Navigator Series, including Navigator 500 and 520, which are for everyday hands-free work for frontline workers in less restricted work areas.     

Following a strong performance by Hart Door Systems in the last quarter of 2023, Gordon Kipling, Hart’s Northern Sales Manager reports business levels continue to be robust.

“I think it’s the support and trust shown by our clients in Hart, many of which we have worked for over several decades, which is key,” says Mr Kipling.

A typical example of a continuing relationship with a client is the installation of several Speedor Storms at a major manufacturing plant in North East England.

“The Storms have replaced our older Speedor Super variant. Speedor Storms are designed to withstand harsh environments where exceptional wind resistance is required,” says Mr Kipling.

The rapid roll Speedor Storm is robust with its high-speed opening and closing action, essential in high-traffic situations where constant opening/closing action is vital.

The energy-saving potential of this rapid roll door is high, controlling internal temperatures, escaping dirt, odours and noise.

Special features include; moisture-controlled electrics, mechanical components shielded from dust and dirt, and a unique guide system offering exceptional wind resistance up to class 5 as defined by DIN EN 12424. 

The Speedor Storm is Hart’s  best-selling door, ideal for challenging applications where reliability is essential.

www.hartdoors.com

Enerpac announces two series of workshop presses—the XLP-Series H-Frame Workshop Presses and VLP-Series Benchtop Presses. Whether for differential assembly in the automotive industry, gear components assembly in the aerospace industry, or bearing maintenance in the mining industry, the Enerpac VLP and XLP presses offer superior performance. 

New XLP-Series Workshop Presses
Available in 25-, 50-, and 75-ton models, the XLP-Series Workshop Presses feature adjustable side-to-side cylinder movement, a locking winch for easy height adjustment of the press bed, and high-performance manual, pneumatic or electric pump options with remote valve operation. The 25-ton press has a simple, welded design and the 50- and 75-ton presses have an open frame and bolted design. The 50-and 75-ton models come standard as unassembled kits, and include complete press frame, winch, cylinder, pump with gauge, couplers and hose. 

New VLP-Series Benchtop Presses
Enerpac VLP-Series Benchtop Presses work with manual or air pumps. They feature a welded frame and are available in 10-ton models.

To learn more about the Enerpac VLP and XLP Presses, visit www.enerpac.com.