ATEX-Zone 0

ATEX Zone 0 is an area where an explosive atmosphere consisting of flammable gases, vapors, or mists is present continuously or for long periods of time. It represents the highest risk classification within the ATEX system.

When is ATEX Zone 0 relevant?

ATEX Zone 0 is found in particularly critical environments, such as:

• Chemical tanks or reactors containing flammable liquids.
• Confined spaces where gases or vapors can accumulate continuously.
• Certain offshore modules with continuous hydrocarbon presence.

For you as a safety officer or asset owner, ATEX Zone 0 means that only specially certified intrinsically safe (IS)equipment may be used. Even tools approved for ATEX Zone 1 are not suitable. Maintenance activities often require shutdowns, inerting procedures, or the use of specialized robotic systems.

Extra explanation about ATEX Zone 0

Overview of ATEX gas zones:

• Zone 0 – explosive atmosphere present continuously.
• ATEX Zone 1 – explosive atmosphere likely to occur during normal operations.
• Zone 2 – explosive atmosphere only occurs abnormally or infrequently.

Pinovo’s vacuum blasting technology is not intended for direct use in ATEX Zone 0 because:

• A continuously present explosive atmosphere requires intrinsically safe (IS) or specially designed equipment.
• Vacuum blasting with abrasive media generates air movement that could disturb the explosive atmosphere.

However, Pinovo enables safe blasting in areas outside ATEX Zone 0, such as tank exteriors or adjacent structures classified as ATEX Zone 1. This allows you to benefit from dust-free, ATEX-compliant blasting while protecting critical assets.