Intrinsic Safety (IS)
Intrinsic Safety (IS) is a protection concept used for equipment operating in hazardous areas. It ensures that the energy levels within the equipment are too low to ignite gases, vapors, or dust.
Where is Intrinsic Safety relevant?
Intrinsic Safety is primarily relevant in ATEX Zone 0 areas, where explosive atmospheres are continuously present. In these environments, only intrinsically safe equipment may be used, such as measuring instruments, sensors, or communication devices.
For you as a safety officer, this means that blasting or grinding equipment cannot be used in Zone 0. However, intrinsic safety remains an important concept when evaluating equipment certifications.
Extra explanation
Intrinsic Safety works by limiting:
- Electrical energy – circuits are designed to prevent ignition-capable sparks.
- Heat generation – components cannot reach ignition temperatures.
- Stored energy – capacitance and inductance are reduced to safe levels.
Pinovo’s vacuum blasting systems are not designed for ATEX Zone 0, but are certified for ATEX Zone 1, where explosive atmospheres occur intermittently. By using pneumatic drives and closed vacuum systems, Pinovo ensures safe operation without relying on intrinsic safety principles.
Pinovo and Intrinsic Safety
Pinovo tools can be safely used in ATEX Zone 1 thanks to their ATEX certification.
In ATEX Zone 0, blasting is not possible. However, Pinovo supports safe maintenance activities in areas surrounding Zone 0, such as tank exteriors or reactor shells.
Understanding intrinsic safety helps explain why Pinovo’s pneumatic design is a suitable solution for hazardous environments.