Igem TSP-10-344

INSTITUTION OF GAS ENGINEERS AND MANAGERS
IGEM/UP/16
Communication XXXX
IGEM/TSP/10/344
Founded 1863
Royal Charter 1929
Patron
Her Majesty the Queen
Hazardous area classification for Natural

Gas installations downstream of primary
meter installations
DRAFT FOR COMMENT
1
This draft Standard IGEM/UP/16 has been prepared by a Panel under the chairmanship
of Barrie Church.
This Draft for Comment is presented to Industry for comments which are required by
30th December 2010, and in accordance with the attached Reply Form.
This is a draft document and should not be regarded or used as a fully approved and
published Standard. It is anticipated that amendments will be made prior to
publication.
It should be noted that this draft Standard contains intellectual property
belonging to IGEM. Unauthorised copying or use by any unauthorised person
or party is not permitted.
This is a copyright document of the Institution of Gas Engineers and Managers.

Enquiries should be addressed in the first instance to:
Peter Hurst
IGEM
IGEM House
26-28 High Street
Kegworth
Derbyshire, DE74 2DA
Tel: 0844 375 4436
Fax: 01509 678198
Email: peter@igem.org.uk
Attached is the Draft for Comment of IGEM/UP/16 Hazardous area classification for Natural
Gas installations downstream of primary meter installations and the associated comment
form.
We wish to make it as easy as possible for those of you representing industry bodies to issue
the draft to your Members. You can either forward this email with attachment complete or
forward it without the attachment and invite them to visit our website via
http://www.igem.org.uk/Drafts.html where the Draft and Comment Form are posted.
Organisations to which this Draft has been circulated:
Organisation
Representative
AIGT
Association of Registered Gas Installers
BSI/GSE/30
CIBSE
CIPHE
DNO Collaboration Forum
Energy Institute
ENA
EUSkills
Gas Forum
Gas Safe Register
GIRSAP
GISG
HSE
HVCA
ICOM
National Grid
Northern Gas Networks
Ofgem
Organisation of Professional Gas Operatives
SBGI
Scotia Gas Networks
UKLPG
Wales and West Utilities
YPN
John Barratt
Tony Brunton
Bernard Williams
Hywel Davies
Kevin Welman
Ian Aldridge
Mark Scanlon
Angela Love
Ian Smith
Clare Temperley
Mark Rolfe
Terry Mundy
Angela Love
Andrew Cox
Bob Towse
David Hughes
Ian Aldridge
Chris Gorman
Steve Brown
Wim Rutjes
Martin Atkinson
Paul Denniff
Jeff Watson
Chris Clarke
Mark Berry
IGEM
COUNCIL
Membership Committee
Marketing Committee
Audit Committee
TCC
GTDC + PSR/25
GMC
GUC + PUP/16
IGEM/UP/16
Communication XXXX

meter installations
Draft for Comment
Founded 1863
Royal Charter 1929
Patron: Her Majesty the Queen
IGEM/UP/16
Communication XXXX

meter installations
Draft for Comment
Price Code: C10H

The Institution of Gas Engineers and Managers
IGEM House
26-28 High Street
Kegworth
Derbyshire, DE74 2DA
Tel: 0844 375 4436
Fax: 01509 678198
Email: general@igem.org.uk
Copyright 2010, IGEM. All rights reserved

Registered charity number 214001
All content in this publication is, unless stated otherwise, the property of IGEM. Copyright laws
protect this publication. Reproduction or retransmission in whole or in part, in any manner,
without the prior written consent of the copyright holder, is a violation of copyright law.
ISBN 978 1 905903 XX X
ISSN 0367 7850
Published by the Institution of Gas Engineers and Managers
For information on other IGEM Standards visit our website, www.igem.org.uk
IGEM/UP/16 Draft for Comment
CONTENTS
SECTION
PAGE
Introduction
Scope
Legal and allied considerations
Considerations of relevance to the determination of zone classifications

4.1
Introduction
4.2
Risk Assessments
4.3
Containment
4.4
Zoning
4.5
Electrical discharges
4.6
Presence of other hazards
4.7
Design
4.8
Commissioning
4.9
Safe maintenance
4.10 Ventilation
8
8
8
8
9
9
9
10
10
10
11
Information for commercial and industrial designs

5.1
Design and installation
5.2
Confined installation
5.3
Congested installation
5.4
Ventilation
12
12
13
15
15
System design checklist for Zone 2 NE compliance

6.1
Natural ventilation
6.2
Continuous mechanical ventilation
17
17
21
Maintenance
22
Generic risk assessments
23
Glossary, acronyms, units and symbols
24
References
26
Concepts
A3.1
A3.2
A3.3
A3.4
A3.5
A3.6
A3.7
28
28
28
28
29
29
30
30
APPENDIX
and requirements for hazardous areas

General
Hazardous area concept
Grade of release
Rate of release
Environment/ventilation
Zone classification
Extent
Worked examples
32
Examples of generic risk assessments
37
IGEM, IGEM House, 26-28 High St, Kegworth, Derbyshire, DE74 2DA. Website: www.igem.org.uk.
FIGURES
1
Signposts to hazardous area classification
Pipework layouts showing preferred pipe locations for Zone 2 NE classification 13
Example of an installation with congested leak locations
15
Hazardous area concept diagram
29
Extent of the hazardous area surrounding fittings, valve glands and regulators
31
(Secondary grade releases outdoors except those designated NE)
Example of a boiler room naturally ventilated
32
Example of a boiler room mechanically ventilated
33
Example of boiler room with mechanical ventilation
34
Example of a horizontal ceiling duct
35
10
Example of a high level loft space
35
Zone 2 NE natural ventilation requirements
14
Preliminary assessment for all pipework
17
Assessment for pipework in ceiling spaces or ducts
18
Assessment for pipework in high level spaces within rooms
19
Assessment for pipework in small spaces
19
Assessment for gas booster installations
20
Assessment for installations which are continuously ventilated by mechanical

means
21
Risk assessment for rigid pipework, joints and components of MOP 0.5 bar
38
Risk assessment for gas boosters of MOP 0.5 bar
39
10
Risk assessment for appliance connections and pipework of MOP 0.5 bar
40
11
Risk assessment for bellows, flexible pipes, hoses and connections of MOP 0.5 bar 41
12
Risk assessment for gas appliances of MOP 0.5 bar
TABLES
42
SECTION 1 : INTRODUCTION
1.1
This Standard has been drafted by an Institution of Gas Engineers and Managers
(IGEM) Panel, appointed by IGEMs Gas Utilization Committee, and has been
approved by IGEMs Technical Co-ordinating Committee on behalf of the Council
of IGEM.
1.2
The Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations (DSEAR)

came into force in December 2002 and the requirements for the preparation of
risk assessments to determine any hazardous area classification first took place
on 30th June 2003. They applied retrospectively to all installations within
workplaces from 30th June 2006.
1.3
This Standard provides information relating to the design of methane based gas
installations to ensure they can be classified and maintained as
Zone 2 Negligible Extent (Zone 2 NE). It is intended primarily for designers of
new pipework systems downstream of the primary gas meter installation. It will
also be useful for site occupiers who have the responsibility for compliance with
DSEAR and the production of site risk assessments.
1.4
The advice on the preparation of risk assessments assumes that industrial and
commercial gas installations and pipework have been well engineered according
to recognised standards such as IGEM/UP/2 and IGE/UP/10. These assessments
whether equipment marked and declared as being suitable for use in a
hazardous area should be considered or applied.
1.5
The Standard does not purport to cover every gas installation (see clause 1.6).
The diversity of gas installations is such that it is inappropriate to provide
detailed requirements for all types of installation covered by the scope of this
Standard. It is recognised that special circumstances may occur, on an
installation, for which some of these requirements will not, necessarily, be
appropriate. In such cases, methods need to be developed by personnel of
adequate competency and experience.
1.6
The scope of this Standard has been limited to methane based gas (for
example, Natural Gas (NG)) installations with an operating pressure (OP) not
exceeding 500 mbar due to in-depth test work performed within the United
Kingdom (UK). For installations at pressure above 500 mbar and vibrating
machinery, specialist assistance is required and is outside the scope of this
document. This may be obtained from equipment manufacturers or IGEM
Consultants listed on IGEMs website.
1.7
The assessment sheets shown in Appendix 4 are intended for inclusion within
site assessments. They indicate to designers and specifiers that correctly
specified and designed installations normally will not leak combustible gases if
properly tested and commissioned. However, subsequent ongoing planned
routine maintenance is an essential feature of the safety for any installation.
These generic assessments relate only to equipment installed downstream of
the emergency control valve (ECV).
1.8
It is recognised that the new advice given in this Standard relating to DSEAR
and the classification of hazardous areas may be difficult to comply with for
existing systems. As such these requirements come into effect for all newly
installed installations from 1st January 2011. In essence, DSEAR requires the
minimisation and early detection of gas leakages together with good local
ventilation; this may be achieved by design or the use of safety controls.
When existing installations are subjected to a risk assessment, any
improvements may be made as reasonably practicable (without excessive cost).
Any improvements will need to meet the intent of this Standard. In such
installations it is essential that a risk assessment is always completed and
1
available on site and that installations are maintained and inspected as

determined by the risk assessment in order to comply with the intent of DSEAR.
No advice can be given on hazardous areas for heavier-than-air-gases as they
fall outside the scope of IGEM/SR/25 and the test work completed by the Health
and Safety Laboratory (HSL). Nonetheless a risk assessment is required and its
recommendations complied with. Additional advice may be available from the
fuel supplier or by referring to Energy Institute (EI) guidance IP15.
1.9
This Standard makes use of the

Notwithstanding Sub-Section 1.12.
terms
must,
shall
and
should.
the term must identifies a requirement by law in UK at the time of

publication
the term shall prescribes a requirement which, it is intended, will be
complied with in full and without deviation
the term should prescribes a requirement which, it is intended, will be
complied with unless, after prior consideration, deviation is considered to be
acceptable.
Such terms may have different meanings when used in legislation, or (Health
and Safety Executive (HSE) Approved Codes of Practice (ACoPs) or guidance,
and reference needs to be made to such statutory legislation or official guidance
for information on legal obligations.
1.10
The primary responsibility for compliance with legal duties rests with the
employer. The fact that certain employees, for example responsible engineers,
are allowed to exercise their professional judgement does not allow employers
to abrogate their primary responsibilities. Employers must:
have done everything to ensure, so far as it is reasonably practicable, that

responsible engineers have the skills, training, experience and personal
qualities necessary for the proper exercise of professional judgement
have systems and procedures in place to ensure that the exercise of
professional judgement by responsible engineers is subject to appropriate
monitoring and review
not require responsible engineers to undertake tasks which would
necessitate the exercise of professional judgement that is not within their
competence. There should be written procedures defining the extent to
which responsible engineers can exercise their professional judgement.
When responsible engineers are asked to undertake tasks which deviate
from this they should refer the matter for higher review.
1.11
It is now widely accepted that the majority of accidents in industry generally are
in some measure attributable to human as well as technical factors in the sense
that actions by people initiated or contributed to the accidents, or people might
have acted in a more appropriate manner to avert them. It is therefore
necessary to give proper consideration to the management of these human
factors and the control of risk. To assist in this, it is recommended that due
regard be paid to HSG48.
1.12
Notwithstanding Sub-Section 1.9, this Standard does not attempt to make the
use of any method or specification obligatory against the judgement of the
responsible engineer. Where new and better techniques are developed and
proved, they can be adopted without waiting for modification to this Standard.
Amendments to this Standard will be issued when necessary, and their
publication will be announced in the Journal of the Institution and other
publications as appropriate.
1.13
Requests for interpretation of this Standard in relation to matters within the

scope, but not precisely covered by the current text, may be addressed in
writing to Technical Services, The Institution of Gas Engineers and Managers
2
(IGEM), IGEM House, 26-28 High Street, Kegworth, Derbyshire, DE74 2DA and
will be submitted to the relevant Committee for consideration and advice, but in
the context that the final responsibility is that of the engineer concerned. If any
advice is given by or on behalf of IGEM, this does not relieve the responsible
engineer of any of his or her obligations.
1.14
This Standard was published in xxxxxxx 2010.
3
SECTION 2 : SCOPE
2.1
This Standard covers gas installation pipework, controls and associated gas
appliances including appliance connections and pipework with an OP not
exceeding 500 mbar installed downstream of the ECV. It may also apply to parts
of common pipework within multi-occupancy domestic premises; for example,
between pipe risers downstream of the meter installation and the central boiler
plant (see Figure 1).
Note 1: Installation pipework includes pipe joints and fittings.
Note 2: In this Standard where the term joint is used, it refers to all joints other than welded,
soldered or brazed joints.
2.2
This Standard covers gas installations containing predominantly methane such

as Natural Gas. It applies to all gases, including landfill or biogases, with a
combined proportion of methane-plus-inerts of greater than 89% by volume; a
gross calorific value not exceeding 45 MJ m-3; molecular weight not exceeding
20 kg kmol-1; LFL of not less than 4.4%; a temperature range of 20C to 50C.
Ambient temperatures are assumed to be in the range - 20C to 35C.
Note:
This definition does not cover Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) and LPG/air mixtures nor does
it cover bio-gases with a specific gravity greater than 0.8. In these cases consult the fuel
supplier or see EI IP-MCSP-P15.
2.3
The intent of this Standard is to provide basic design information with the
principal intent of enabling designers to achieve a gas installation that can be
classified as Zone 2 NE and as such will not require the provision of electrical
equipment suitable for areas/spaces classified as Zone 1, 2 or 0. The description
of this topic is given in Appendix 3. A description of duties under DSEAR is given
in Appendix 3.2.
2.4
The following are not covered by this Standard:
installation pipework downstream of the ECV within a domestic dwelling

compressor installations, (see IGEM/UP/6 and IGEM/SR/25)
engines and gas turbines, (see IGE/UP/3, IGE/UP/9 and IGEM/SR/25)
any part of a meter installation (see IGEM/GM/7B and IGEM/GM/8).
2.5
Pressures quoted are gauge pressures unless otherwise stated.
2.6
Italicised text is informative and does not represent formal requirements.
2.7
Appendices are informative and do not represent formal requirements unless

specifically referenced by instruction in the main sections.
4
FIGURE 1 SIGNPOSTS TO HAZARDOUS AREA CLASSIFICATION
5
SECTION 3 : LEGAL AND ALLIED CONSIDERATIONS

3.1
This Standard is set out against a background of legislation in force in the UK at

the time of publication. Similar considerations are likely to apply in other
countries where reference to appropriate national legislation is necessary.
All relevant legislation must be applied and relevant ACoPs, official Guidance
Notes and referenced codes, standards, etc. need to be taken into account.
Note:
Appendix 2 is relevant in this respect.
Where British Standards, etc. are quoted, equivalent national or international

standards, etc. equally may be appropriate.
Note:
3.2
With particular respect to standards quoted, it is essential that the equivalent standard
will achieve at least the same level of gas integrity and acceptable risk to life and property.
HEALTH AND SAFETY AT WORK ETC. ACT (HSWA)

HSWA applies to all persons involved with work activities, including employers,
the self-employed, employees, designers, manufacturers, suppliers, etc. as well
as the owners of premises. It places general duties on such people to ensure, so
far as is reasonably practicable, the health, safety and welfare of employees and
the health and safety of members of the public who may be affected by the
work activity.
3.3
DANGEROUS
SUBSTANCES
REGULATIONS (DSEAR)
AND
EXPLOSIVE
ATMOSPHERES
3.3.1
DSEAR require the responsible person for the premises (the employer) to
perform a risk assessment of each part of the gas installation to determine
whether or not there are risks of gas leakage leading to potentially explosive
atmospheres. The responsible person then has to determine whether protective
measures (for example, such as the use of electrical equipment certificated for
use in hazardous areas) are required.
Furthermore, employers are required to classify places at the workplace as
hazardous (that is, where explosive atmospheres may occur) or nonhazardous areas.
Any person engaged in the preparation of a risk assessment of gas installations
with respect to DSEAR must be suitably competent.
3.3.2
DSEAR require the responsible person for the premises to co-operate with others
working on the site to share safety information relating to the safety of the gas
installation.
3.3.3
It is recognised by the gas industry and the HSE that it could be helpful to
provide generic risk assessments and other information to site operators and
installers.
Note:
3.3.4
The assessments given in Appendix 4 are intended for:
gas appliances and burners designed and produced to meet current British Standards
Institution (BSI) or IGEM specifications as appropriate;
typical gas installations that are installed, tested and maintained to current IGEM and
BSI standards (see Appendix 2).
DSEAR is an expansion of the general duty to manage risks under the

Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations (MHSWR) and require
good practices that reduce risk to persons from explosions and fires etc. which,
in turn, are caused by dangerous substances. DSEAR identifies requirements for
the preparation of risk assessments to determine any hazardous area
classification. This applies retrospectively to relevant installations within
buildings from 30th June 2006.
6
3.3.5
DSEAR deals with fires, explosions and similar energy releasing events, for
example exothermic chemical reactions, arising from dangerous substances
(chemical agents) and the explosive atmospheres created by those substances.
3.3.6
This publication provides information relating to those risk assessments for wellengineered gas installations. These requirements indicate whether equipment
certified for use in a hazardous area should be considered or applied. It is
recognised that not all existing installations installed before 1st January 2011 will
comply with this new advice. In these cases, the conclusions of the Risk
Assessment need to be applied and complied with. In particular, routine checks
(carried out at least annually) for the presence of combustible gas should be
recommended.
3.4
GAS SAFETY (INSTALLATION AND USE) REGULATIONS (GS(I&U)R)
3.4.1
GS(I&U)R are relevant statutory provisions of HSWA setting out general and
detailed requirements dealing with the safe installation, maintenance and use of
gas systems, including gas fittings, appliances and flues.
Note:
GS(I&U)R do not apply to certain premises (see HSL56 Guidance Notes 28 and 29).
However, where they do not apply, the principles of GS(I&U)R need to be applied.
3.4.2
GS(I&U)R place responsibilities on those installing, servicing, maintaining or

repairing gas appliances, pipework, etc., as well as suppliers and users of gas.
3.4.3
GS(I&U)R define the type of work that requires persons carrying out such work,
or their employers, to be an approved class of person, for example Gas Safe
registered.
3.4.4
The installer must check the safety of any appliance or pipework they install or
work on and take appropriate action where they find faults. Where the premises
are let or hired out, the landlord or hirer has special responsibilities to ensure
that any installer they use for the gas fitting, service or maintenance or safety is
a member of an approved class of persons and is competent to carry out such
work. If any serious fault is found, the installer must inform both the
landlord/hirer, as well as the user, so that such faults can be rectified before
further use.
7
SECTION 4 : CONSIDERATIONS
OF
RELEVANCE
TO
DETERMINATION OF ZONE CLASSIFICATIONS
THE
4.1
INTRODUCTION
4.1.1
Gas as defined in the scope, is normally an odorised methane based gas with a
specific gravity, compared to air, of less than 0.8. It has an ignition temperature
of approximately 450oC.
4.1.2
The UK gas industrys past safety record indicates that properly installed, tested
and maintained equipment does not pose significant explosion risks.
4.1.3
This Standard uses assumptions made to enable a simplified approach for

hazardous area classification for installation pipework, to enable a Zone 2 NE to
be adopted whenever possible.
4.1.4
This Standard does not address either Continuous or Primary Grade release or
catastrophic failure, for example regulator diaphragm rupture or fractured pipe.
4.1.5
A simplified overview of the various terms used within the gas industry in
relation to hazardous areas are given below. For more detailed information see
IGEM/SR/25.
4.2
RISK ASSESSMENTS
4.2.1
Dangerous substances can put peoples safety at risk from fire and explosion.
DSEAR puts duties on employers and the self-employed to protect people from
risks to their safety from fires, explosions and similar events in the workplace,
this includes members of the public who may be put at risk by work activity.
Thus work procedures will often require the preparation of specific risk
assessments to ensure the safety of the work.
4.2.2
One of the duties under DSEAR is that the site occupier must prepare and keep
up to date risk assessments for flammable gas installations on the site. These
assessments will often be prepared during the design and construction stages of
a project and should then be checked and verified prior to commissioning. They
should form part of the overall site risk assessment.
4.2.3
There are many methods of producing these assessments and detailed advice
can be found in IGE/SR/24. However HSE publish a simple guide called "5 Steps
to risk assessment" (INDG613) and the appendices of this Standard use that
simpler format as a guide to what actions and precautions may be required to
be put into place when assessing flammable gas installations.
4.2.4
It is the responsibility of the occupier to ensure the risk assessments are

competently completed and kept under review as site changes occur.
4.2.5
The gas system designer, the equipment manufacturer and installer are often
best able to advise companies on the content of the Risk Assessments (see
Section 8 and Appendix 3 and 4).
4.3
CONTAINMENT
4.3.1
Gas pipework standards have been developed in the UK and elsewhere over
many years with the objective of long-term safe containment. In the UK these
are encompassed in IGEM/UP/2 and BS 6891. In association with sensitive
tightness testing procedures as given in IGE/UP/1, IGE/UP/1A and IGE/UP/1B,
pipework systems can be adequately validated for gas tightness from new and
during their lifetime.
8
4.3.2
In considering leakage rates from joints and fittings, this Standard uses the
term Notional Leak Size. For the purposes of this Standard the following
categories shall be used:
for pipework with OP up to 100 mbar a leak size equivalent to that which
would escape from a hole of 0.025 mm2 is used for calculation purposes
for pipework with OP between 101 mbar and 500mbar a leak size equivalent
to that which would escape from a hole of 0.25 mm2 is used for calculation
purposes. This size is also used for those installations with OP not greater
than 100 mbar where there are vibration issues to be considered
for pipework with OP between 101mbar and 500mbar where there are
vibration issues to be considered a leak size equivalent to that which would
escape from a hole of 2.5 mm2 is used for calculation purposes.
Note:
This larger hole size is applicable where the vibration is such as may lead to premature
failure. This may be relevant to some shaft seals and flexible pipes used on reciprocating
machines.
4.4
ZONING
4.3.1
Work by HSL and subsequent considerations within IGEM/SR/25 have indicated

that low pressure gas pipework, joints and fittings may not generate a
hazardous area of Zone 2 classification. Joints and other leakage sources will
however always generate a Zone 2 NE classification.
Note:
In this respect NE refers to negligible extent as described in BS EN 60079-10-1.
This classification of Zone 2 NE assumes that the pipework and associated

controls have been designed and installed to recognised Standards such as
IGEM/UP/2, located in an adequately ventilated area and is well maintained.
Where this is not the case, then the classification of the Zone will be at least
Zone 2 and consideration shall be given to the seeking of more specialist advice.
Note:
Zone 2 NE is defined as an area in which an explosive atmosphere consisting of a mixture

with air of gas, vapour or mist is not likely to occur in normal operation, but if it does occur,
will exist for a short period only and would be of negligible extent. The resultant ignition if it
did occur would be such that it would be unlikely to injure persons or seriously damage
buildings.
4.3.2
The guidance in this Standard is provided to assist the designer to determine if

the design could be classified as Zone 2 NE. Further information is provided on
the detail of designs in IGEM/UP/2 and IGE/UP/10. Designs not meeting the
requirements for Zone 2 NE will normally require the use of electrical equipment
suitable for use in a zoned area and a more detailed analysis and risk
assessment by competent persons. Such equipment will not be found on typical
appliances, kilns and furnaces, etc., nor on typical burner systems.
4.5
ELECTRICAL DISCHARGES
Metallic gas pipework systems are required to be cross bonded to earth, not
only to reduce electric shock risk to persons, but to also reduce any dangers of
sparking due to electrical faults leading to ignition of any gas leakage, however
caused. Non-metallic gas pipework is not normally permitted above ground
inside buildings.
4.6
PRESENCE OF OTHER HAZARDS

Modern gas installation standards require designers and installers to consider
the overall safety of the system using risk assessment techniques. These
considerations are mostly from a viewpoint of combustion and explosions
associated with gas leakage with respect to the safety of the structure and of
persons. The intention is to have problems designed out before construction. It
is important however, to consider the existence of hazards from other sources,
for example flammable dusts, solvents, corrosive substances in the local
atmosphere.
9
4.7
DESIGN
4.7.1
The initial design of the complete gas system downstream of the ECV needs to
be such that as far as practicable it can be classified as Zone 2 NE. Where this is
not achieved it will be necessary to consider the Zonal classification which in
turn will require the use of equipment that minimises the provision of an ignition
source. It may also mean that an installer will be prohibited from purging the
system to gas.
4.7.2
To achieve Zone 2 NE, adequate local ventilation around every gas pipe joint
(other than welded, soldered or brazed joints) or potential gas leakage source
shall be provided. Confinement and congestion will normally restrict the
availability of ventilation which may restrict the possibility of achieving a
Zone 2 NE classification unless other measures are taken, for example, by the
use of lower gas pressures, increased local ventilation or more frequent
inspections.
4.7.3
A zone of negligible extent is not the same as a safe area, even though neither
requires action with regard to potential ignition sources. In particular, it may be
that a zone of negligible extent becomes more onerous if ventilation is reduced
during modifications to buildings.
4.7.4
For existing installations, changes shall not be made to any pipework installation
or the nearby environment that may adversely affect the assessment as
Zone 2 NE. This may include for example, altering ventilation, addition of a
boiler, changes to the structure where the change may affect ventilation air
flows.
4.8
COMMISSIONING
DSEAR and the GS(I&U)R require that any gas installation is verified as being
safe before first use.
If a workplace contains areas that are, or will be, classified as hazardous under
Regulation 7(1) of DSEAR, the employer must ensure that work equipment in
the hazardous area is safe. Protective systems in use within these areas must
be safe for use, and work activities may need to be detailed so that they can
be carried out safely, before the workplace is used. These actions, collectively,
are termed verification. The employer must ensure that the person(s) who
carries out the verification is competent to consider the risks in the space and to
determine the adequacy of the safety measures in order to ensure explosion
safety.
4.9
SAFE MAINTENANCE
4.9.1
The uncontrolled release of flammable gas during work is not permitted by

Health and Safety legislation and the GS(I&U)R.
In some cases, a small controlled amount of flammable gas may be released
during work into a well-ventilated environment, for example when changing a
small solenoid valve in a burner gas train. Such release must not lead to danger
to persons or property.
4.9.2
Designers and employers are duty bound to ensure that any gas pipework
system and plant/equipment can be safely installed, commissioned and
maintained. In cases of larger plant, written schemes of operational and
maintenance methodologies are, generally, essential. Consideration must be
given to the adequacy of ventilation and removal of sources of ignition before
and during maintenance. This may form part of a Permit to Work system.
10
4.10
VENTILATION
4.10.1
The objective of the ventilation is to provide local air movement in all positions
where a pipe joint or leakage source is located to provide good dispersion of any
leaking flammable gas. Soldered, welded and brazed pipework will thus have a
major design advantage over jointed systems using screwed, flanged or
mechanical joints. In this respect IGEM/UP/2 precludes the use of threaded pipe
joints above 50 mm nominal bore for pressures below 500 mbar.
4.10.2
Air change rates in themselves can be misleading since a large room with a low
air change rate could have the same air flow for dispersion of a leak as a small
one with a high air change rate. For example, a large warehouse or a boiler
house might only have a small local gas pipe and an appliance in one corner and
only require local ventilation. Similarly a small volume boiler space could be
densely packed with boilers and pipework requiring intensive ventilation and
good air flows throughout.
4.10.3
Most natural gases being lighter-than-air will rise to a high point in a space.
Thus any space above the highest ventilator location will be less well served for
dilution ventilation. Additional measures will need to be applied if there are
joints/leakage sources above the highest ventilation location.
4.10.4
As far as practicable for natural ventilation, the preferred design solution is for
ventilation grilles to be located on all four walls and at both high and low levels.
This is not always possible for smaller installations and thus in the design of the
pipework greater use of welded systems may be preferable. Equally more
frequent maintenance visits may be required.
4.10.5
In very congested areas, even well designed natural ventilation may not be
enough to attain classification as Zone 2 NE.
11
SECTION 5 : INFORMATION FOR COMMERCIAL

INSTALLATION DESIGNS
AND
INDUSTRIAL
It is recognised that many site occupiers, responsible persons etc. are not conversant with the
implications of DSEAR. Consequently, those installing gas installations will be the link on gas
safety for the gas consumer. As such, the contents of the forms given in Appendix 4 should be
used as guidance when producing a standard notice which may be handed to gas consumers
on completion of work.
5.1
DESIGN AND INSTALLATION
5.1.1
During the design it is important to minimise the number of joints, to ensure

adequate ventilation and to provide access for inspection and maintenance.
Therefore adopting all welded/brazed or soldered construction and or thicker
walled pipework, corrosion resistance materials and freedom from adverse
conditions will be a major advantage. The installation shall comply with
IGEM/UP/2. In addition the following shall be considered during the design and
subsequent installation.
5.1.2
In un-obstructed locations, the areas around the pipework joints with an OP not
exceeding 500 mbar may be classified as Zone 2 NE provided they are in a
space having reasonable ventilation, which is above 0.5 air changes per hour.
This level of ventilation can generally be provided by adventitious ventilation and
will be available in most habitable rooms, appliance plant rooms and enclosures
meeting IGE/UP/10.
5.1.3
In congested or confined locations (see Sub-Sections 5.2 and 5.3), the areas
around new pipework joints may need to be classified as Zone 2 with a discrete
zoning distance. The areas around existing pipework joints will be allocated a
Zone 2 classification unless additional measures are taken to permit a Zone 2 NE
classification, such as increasing the ventilation to levels given in Table 1, the
provision of artificial ventilation with flow interlocks and automatic shut-off
valves (AIVs), the provision of gas detection alarm systems, or monthly checks
of the environment for lack of gas leakage with a combustible gas tester (or a
combination of these measures).
5.1.4
Ducts (above ground level) and small spaces may be classified Zone 2 NE
provided they have an internal volume not less than 10 m3 and adventitious
ventilation, which is above 0.5 air changes per hour. For internal volumes below
10 m3, additional ventilation shall be provided. Horizontal ceiling-level ducts and
spaces containing gas pipework with an OP not exceeding 100 mbar shall be
ventilated, preferably externally, with grilles of not less than 100 cm2 total free
area. Where this is not practicable, grilles, each of not less than 100 cm2 free
area shall be installed near to each joint location and either at each end of the
duct or on each of the perimeter walls if it is a ceiling space. Where the OP is
above 100mbar apply other options below or see IGEM/SR/25.
5.1.5
Where pipework is located in below ground spaces such as basements or rooms

that are rarely, if ever visited, additional ventilation may be needed to ensure
the air change rate is above 0.5 air changes per hour. Where this is not
practicable, consideration shall be given to the provision of artificial ventilation
with flow interlocks and automatic shut-off valves (AIVs), or the provision of gas
detection alarm systems, or monthly checks of the environment for lack of gas
leakage with a combustible gas tester.
12
5.2
CONFINED INSTALLATION
5.2.1
A confined leak location is one where the presence of nearby obstacles can lead
to the initial high momentum of the jet release being reduced and the gas jet
re-entraining flammable gas, leading to a larger gas cloud volume than
expected based on the enclosure ventilation rate and the gas release rate. In
such cases an assessment of the degree of local ventilation in comparison to the
leak size is difficult and therefore Zone 2 rather than Zone 2 NE will generally
need to be applied and reference needs to be made to IGEM/SR/25.
5.2.2
If the leak location is close to three to more significant obstructions, for example
walls then the space around the leak location should be described as confined.
The floor will often count as one of the obstructions, which means that a leak
located in the corner of an enclosure (where two walls and the floor meet; see
Figure 2) will be confined.
5.2.3
In the design in Figure 2, the obstruction, say a boiler is within 1 m of the two
walls and the floor. The pipe is, say 50 mm from the wall and the floor. In this
case, Zone 2 NE cannot apply to yellow pipe joints behind and to the left of the
obstruction (red cross-hatched area). Zone 2 NE can only apply to the pipe clear
of the obstruction (tan coloured pipes).
<1
m
Clearly a Zone 2 area cannot impinge on a boiler, its controls and burner flames
so within the initial design the pipes will have to be moved if joints exist, as
shown by the yellow ochre pipe location so that Zone 2 NE can be applied. An
option would be to install ventilator grilles as Table 1 in the space behind and to
the left of the boiler to improve local ventilation or to fit a small air moving fan.
< 1m
boiler
FIGURE 2 - AN EXAMPLE OF PIPEWORK LAYOUTS SHOWING PREFERRED

PIPE LOCATIONS FOR ZONE 2 NE CLASSIFICATION
13
Pressure
(mbar)
21 - 50
51 - 100
101 - 150
151 - 200
201 - 300
301 - 400
401 - 500
0.025mm2
1
More than one
wall.
2
One wall*1
High and low

level vent grille
free area in
each wall
cm2
30*2
47*2
65*2
High and low

level vent grille
free area in
each wall
cm2
42*2
65*2
91*2
*1
*2
*3
Notional Leak Size (See Sub-Section 4.2)

0.25mm2
3
4
5
6
More than one
More than one
One wall*1
Air flow for
wall.
wall.
10% LEL
High and low
level vent grille
free area in
each wall
cm2
290
445
630
770
885
1090
1250
High and low

level vent grille
free area in
each wall
cm2
400
620
880
1075
1240
1520
1760
m3 h-1
11.4
18.2
25
31.8
36.3
45.4
52.2
High and low

level vent grille
free area in
each wall cm2
8950
12700
15500
17900
21900
25300
28300
2.5mm2
7
One wall*1
High and low
level vent
grille free area
in each wall
cm2
12500
17800
21700
25100
30700
35400
39600
8
Air flow for
10% LEL
m3 h-1
114
182
250
318
368
450
520
Ventilators should where possible be spread on more than one wall.

In each case a 70kW boiler will have larger air requirements. These figures can only be used in areas which are regularly visited and as such, a gas leak
would be detected at an early stage.
For vibrating environments where vibration is such as may lead to component/pipe failure use notional leak size of 2.5 mm2.
Note 1: Assumes Natural Gas with an LEL of about 4.4%.

Note 2: For installations above with OP above 0.5 bar, see IGEM/SR/25.
Note 3: Columns 1 and 2 only apply to occupied or regularly visited spaces or external areas.
Note 4: Figures are based upon IGEM/SR/25 buoyancy calculations with ventilators 2 m vertically apart, centre to centre.
For other vertical height differences, multiply free areas by factor:
1m 1.41
3m - 0.82
4m - 0.7
5m 0.63
6m - 0.58
For all-wall or all-door ventilation, use full height of ventilation grille.
Ventilation should be divided in the walls and approximately 1/3rd at high level and 2/3rd at low level.
TABLE 1 ZONE 2 NE NATURAL VENTILATION REQUIREMENTS
14
5.3
CONGESTED INSTALLATION
A congested leak location is one where there is a significant amount of small
scale obstacles that compromises the ventilation flow rate through that area. It
is possible that such an area, while congested, may not be described as
confined if there are no (or very few) large scale obstructions to the ventilation
flow in that area.
In cases that are initially identified as congested, but not confined, it is possible
that by further investigation (for example through tracer gas techniques, the
use of artificial smoke or modelling), it may be possible to demonstrate that the
leak location is in fact reasonably well-ventilated. In such cases, assuming that
other requirements are met, then Zone 2 NE may be applicable.
FIGURE 3 EXAMPLE OF AN INSTALLATION WITH CONGESTED LEAK

LOCATIONS
5.4
VENTILATION
5.4.1
As far as reasonably practicable the air change rate for spaces containing gas
pipework shall be greater than 0.5 changes per hour. The ventilation should be
on all four walls of the space where possible. Where this is not possible, the
ventilation shall be located to provide good air distribution throughout the space
and especially where the pipework is located. High level vents should be as high
as practicable, see IGE/UP/10.
5.4.2
Where good internal air movement cannot be provided by natural ventilation, it

shall be enhanced by the use of interlocked mechanical ventilation to ensure
Zone 2 NE remains applicable.
There shall be adequate gas safety ventilation to dilute any potential leakage to
below 10% LEL for pipework with an OP below 100 mbar and which is located in
a space:
above a false or suspended ceiling within a room or

below a suspended floor.
Note:
See clause 6.1.4 for design information and IGEM/SR/25 where the MOP exceeds
100 mbar.
For pipework within roof or loft spaces the ventilation shall comply with Table 1.
5.4.3
It is recognised that the ventilation levels given in this Standard may not be
adequate for safe working within the spaces and when the space is visited for
working, provision for additional ventilation shall be provided in the design
typically to achieve at least 0.5 air changes per hour.
15
5.4.4
In mechanically ventilated spaces there should be good mixing of the air and
any potential gas leakages to avoid dead spaces and re-entrainment of gas into
the dispersing gas/air mixtures. Good mixing is promoted by a lack of
congestion in the location of pipe joints, proper sizing and disposition of
ventilation grilles to ensure air movement across the potential leak locations. A
diagonal upward flow is a preferred option.
16
SECTION 6 : SYSTEM DESIGN CHECKLIST FOR ZONE 2 NE COMPLIANCE

6.1
NATURAL VENTILATION
The following is a guide to a good Zone 2 NE compliant design. The information
provides the minimum ventilation required for DSEAR compliance. In many
cases the installed ventilation will be in excess of these sizes to satisfy
standards such as BS 8313 and IGE/UP/10.
The requirements and limitations are the same for mechanical ventilation and
the tests assume the ventilation fan is turned off. If the fans are in continuous
operation see Sub-Section 6.2.
6.1.1
General Pipework
QUESTION
1a
Does the fuel gas being used have a SG

below 0.8?
ANSWER
YES
NO
Could be Zone 2 NE
See IP15
See Question 2a
Note 1: SG of Natural Gas is 0.6.

Note 2: IP15 is produced by the Energy Institute and may not contain enough practical advice as given in the
standards for Natural Gas. Advice from the gas supplier could also be sought.
2a
Is the pressure below 100 mbar?
3a
Is the space an external space with no

obstructions/congestion?
Is the space an open internal space such
as a room or boiler house?
Is the space in a room but above the
location of the high level ventilation?
Are there any pipe joints located above
the high level ventilation grilles?
Is the space greater than 10 m3 volume?
4a
5a
6a
7a
8a
9a
10a
11a
12a
13a
14a
Are all pipe joints more than 1 m from 3

surfaces?
If existing installation with OP below
100 mbar, is it in good condition and is
the area regularly visited to detect any
smells of gas?
Is the pipework free of vibration that
might lead to failure?
Is the area visited in which the
pipes/joints are located visited more
often than once per month?
Is the ventilation well distributed as far
as practicable around the walls?
Is the ventilation well distributed at high
(within 15% of the height of the room
from the top of ceiling) and low level
(within 1 m floor)?
Is the ventilation over 0.5 changes per
hour?
Could be Zone 2 NE
See Question 3a
Classify and
maintain Zone 2NE
Could be Zone 2 NE
See Question 4a
See Question 6a
See Clause 6.1.3
Could be Zone 2 NE
See Question 8a
Could be Zone 2 NE
See Question 10a
Could be Zone 2 NE
See Question 10a
See IGEM/SR/25
See Question 4a
See Clause 6.1.3
See Question 7a
Could be Zone 2 NE
See Question 7a
See Clause 6.1.4
See Question 9a
See IGEM/SR/25
Could be Zone 2 NE
See Question 11a
Could be Zone 2 NE
See Question 12a
See Clause 6.1.5
Could be Zone 2 NE
See Question 13a
Could be Zone 2 NE
See Question 14a
See IGEM/SR/25
Classify and
maintain as
Zone 2 NE
Install ventilation in
accordance with
Table 1 for the
space to be
classified and
maintained as
Zone 2 NE
See IGEM/SR/25
See IGEM/SR/25
TABLE 2 - PRELIMINARY ASSESSMENT FOR ALL PIPEWORK

17
6.1.2
Pipework in Ceiling Spaces or Ducts
6.1.2.1
It is known the space is an internal space (above ground) such as a ceiling

space or duct.
Note:
For underground ducts, see IGEM/SR/25.
QUESTION
1b
2b
Is the space a horizontal service duct or

ceiling void above a room?
3b
Is the space a vertical service duct?
4b
Is it possible to fit at least 100 mm2 free

area ventilators at each end of the duct
to the outside air or smoke safety
ventilation according to BS 8313?
5b
Is it possible to fit only high level

ventilation?
6b
Is the space a roof void?
ANSWER
YES
NO
Could be Zone 2 NE
See IGEM/SR/25
See Question 2b
Take action as
See Question 3b
required by clause
6.1.2.2.to enable
the space to be
classified and
maintained as
Zone 2 NE
See Question 4b
See Question 6b
Ensure the space is
checked for leakage
on a 12 monthly
basis for the space
to classified and
maintained as
Zone 2 NE
Ensure the space is
checked for leakage
either on a 6
monthly basis or 12
monthly basis (If
gas detection alarm
fitted) for the space
to classified and
maintained as
Zone 2 NE
accordance with
Table 1 for the
space to be
classified and
maintained as
Zone 2 NE
See Question 5b
See IGEM/SR/25
See IGEM/SR/25
TABLE 3 ASSESSMENT FOR PIPEWORK IN CEILING SPACES OR DUCTS

6.1.2.2
For horizontal service ducts or ceiling voids above a room either fit 100 mm2
free area ventilators:
at each end of the duct to the outside air, preferably on all four walls, or,
into the room at each pipe joint location and 100 mm2 free area ventilators
on the 4 perimeter walls.
Note:
External ventilation is always preferred.
If appropriate ventilation (see above) is in place the space shall be either

checked for leakage on a:
6 monthly basis or
12 monthly basis if a gas detection alarm is fitted.
Note:
The above action enables the space to be classified and maintained as Zone 2 NE.
18
6.1.3
High level spaces within rooms

The space is in a room and above the location of the high level ventilation.
QUESTION
1c
2c
3c
ANSWER
Are there are any pipe joints or potential

sources of leakage in this area?
Is it possible to install high level
ventilation to the open air in accordance
with Table 1 above the joints?
Can the space be checked for leakage
either on a 6 monthly basis or 12
monthly basis (If a gas detection alarm
fitted)?
TABLE 4 - ASSESSMENT FOR
WITHIN ROOMS
6.1.4
YES
Could be Zone 2 NE
See Question 2c
Install ventilation
then classify and
maintain space as
Zone 2 NE
Classify and
maintain space as
Zone 2 NE
PIPEWORK
IN
NO
No need to classify
space.
Could be Zone 2 NE
See Question 3c
HIGH
See IGEM/SR/25
LEVEL
SPACES
Small spaces
The space is known to be less than 10 m3 in nett volume.
QUESTION
1d
Is the space is below 10 m3 nett volume?
2d
3d
Is it possible to install high level

ventilation to the open air in accordance
with Table 1 above the joints?
ANSWER
YES
NO
Enlarge the space
Could be Zone 2 NE
and see Question 2d
See Question 2d
or
To classify and
maintain the space
as Zone 2 NE, either
fit full size
ventilation on
largest wall
practicable or
perform leakage
checks on a monthly
basis.
Could be Zone 2 NE
See IGEM/SR/25
See Question 3d
See IGEM/SR/25
accordance with
Table 1 and ensure
the space is checked
for leakage on a
6 monthly basis for
the space to be
classified and
maintained as
Zone 2 NE
TABLE 5 ASSESSMENT FOR PIPEWORK IN SMALL SPACES
19
6.1.5
Gas Booster installations
QUESTION
ANSWER
1e
Is the outlet pressure below 100 mbar?
2e
Does the ventilation exceed the value

given in Table 1 for 0.25 mm2 notional
leak size?
Is there excessive vibration?
3e
Note:
4e
YES
Could be Zone 2 NE
See Question 2e
Could be Zone 2 NE
See Question 3e
Could be Zone 2 NE
See Question 4e
NO
See IGEM/SR/25
See IGEM/SR/25
See IGEM/SR/25
Vibration will not normally be a problem with centrifugal fan boosters. If pressure surges/pulsations occur
at lower flows, see IGEM/UP/2.
Is it possible for the space to be checked

for leakage on a 6 monthly basis and the
booster annually maintained by a
competent person?
Classify and
maintain as
Zone 2 NE
See IGEM/SR/25
TABLE 6 - ASSESSMENT FOR GAS BOOSTER INSTALLATIONS
20
6.2
CONTINUOUS MECHANICAL VENTILATION

The following is a guide to ensure a Zone 2 NE compliant design.
QUESTION
1f
ANSWER
Does the fuel gas being used have a SG

below 0.8?
YES
Could be Zone 2 NE
See Question 2f
NO
See IP15
Note 1: SG of Natural Gas is 0.6.

Note 2: IP15 is produced by the Energy Institute and may not contain enough practical advice as given in the
standards for Natural Gas. Advice from the gas supplier could also be sought.
2f
3f
Is the mechanical ventilation interlocked

with an alarm system or an automatic
isolation valve?
Is it possible to fit an AIV and interlocks
(see IGE/UP/10)?
Is the space an external space with no
obstructions/congestion?
Is the ventilation well distributed as far
as practicable to provide air movement
over all joints?
Is the pipework in non-congested areas
with free ventilation?
4f
5f
6f
7f
8f
9f
10f
11f
12f
13f
14f
Is the space in a room but above the

location of the high level ventilation?
Are there any pipe joints located above
the high level ventilation grilles?
Is the pipework free of vibration that
might lead to failure?
Is the area visited in which the
pipes/joints are located visited more
often than once per month?
Is there high level ventilation (within
15% top of ceiling)?
Is the ventilation over 0.5 changes per
hour?
Is it possible to fit high and low in
accordance with Table 1 and for the
space to be check for leakage on an
annual basis?
Could
See
Could
See
be Zone 2 NE
Question 3f
be Zone 2 NE
Question 5f
See IGEM/SR/25
Could be Zone 2 NE
See Question 5f
Classify and
maintain Zone 2 NE
Could be Zone 2 NE
See Question 7f
See IGEM/SR/25
Could be Zone 2 NE
See Question 8f
Improve local
ventilation/air
movement then see
Question 8f
See Question 10f
See Question 9f
See Clause 6.1.3
Could be Zone 2 NE
See Question 11f
Could be Zone 2 NE
See Question 12f
Could be Zone 2 NE
See Question 13f
Classify and
maintain as
Zone 2 NE
Classify and
maintain as
Zone 2 NE
See Question 4f
See Question 6f
See IGEM/SR/25
Could be Zone 2 NE
See Question 10f
See Clause 6.1.5
See Question 12f
See Clause 6.1.3
See Question 14f
See IGEM/SR/25
TABLE 7 - ASSESSMENT
FOR
INSTALLATIONS
WHICH
CONTINUOUSLY VENTILATED BY MECHANICAL MEANS
21
ARE
SECTION 7 : MAINTENANCE
The section on ongoing controls in the generic risk assessments (see Section 8 and
Appendix 4) emphasises the need to ensure that gas metering pipework, installation pipework
and appliances, together with their ancillaries, are correctly maintained during the life of the
installation. The maintenance shall also ensure that the design ventilation continues to be
provided, is not faulty, remains correctly interlocked, as may be required, and has not been
blocked up.
At the design stage, a competent person is required to set down the recommended procedures
for validating, as determined necessary, the leak tightness of the gas installation as a whole.
Simple overview checks for leakage may be made by smell. Maintenance procedures for
leakage should be by using leak detection fluid (LDF) or by the use of hydrocarbon detection
instruments (parts per million by volume gas detectors) or by tightness testing.
Physical tightness testing of existing rigid pipework should not normally be necessary.
However, where considered necessary an interval of 5 to 10 years should be adequate.
The site technical file shall indicate which pipework is classified as Zone 2 NE. Pipe sections
and components and the areas around vents and breathers which are classified Zone 2 or
higher shall be detailed on site plan and elevation drawings.
All work on gas systems shall be performed wherever practical under gas-free conditions. In
such cases it should not be necessary to use spark-free tools. Where gas-free conditions
cannot be achieved it must be ensured that any release of flammable gas cannot lead to
hazardous conditions.
Note:
For more information see IGEM/UP/2.
22
SECTION 8 : GENERIC RISK ASSESSMENTS

8.1
RISK ASSESSMENT
8.1.1
DSEAR requires that a risk assessment is performed on all commercial and

industrial gas installations to ensure their safety, especially with respect to the
use of electrical equipment. Typical generic risk assessments are given in
Appendix 3.
8.1.2
The generic risk assessments for gas installations of OP not exceeding 500 mbar
show that there should be no safety issues for typical well-installed installations
using materials and appliances that are fit-for-purpose. However, when a leak
does occur, leakage will normally be negligible and natural ventilation should
dilute leaks to below the flammable range in the immediate vicinity of the leak.
For such installations, the area can be classified as Zone 2 NE. For this reason
new gas installation pipework shall not be installed in unventilated or 'poorly'
ventilated areas. Where 'poor' ventilation is suspected, further advice should be
sought where the ventilation cannot be improved. Where natural ventilation of a
space is applied the classification of the space as Zone 2 NE may not be
appropriate.
8.1.3
In cases where the generic assessments are not considered to cover all the sitespecific details, such as other external hazards, danger from mechanical
damage, lack of maintenance, etc., it will be necessary to consider the wider
safety implications of the installation in the risk assessment.
8.1.4
It is important that gas installations are properly maintained and checked for no
gas leakages on a regular basis by competent persons to ensure the continuing
safety of the installation. It is, ultimately, the responsibility of employers to
ensure that the appropriate equipment is used by their employees and installed
within the premises under their control.
8.2
SITE RECORDS AND SIGNAGE
8.2.1
The risk assessments shall be securely stored in a site technical file. Such
assessments shall be reviewed prior to any site modifications and on completion
of the modifications. The fact that any area has been designated Zone 2 NE
shall also be recorded together with information of the person performing such
assessments and judgements.
8.2.2
The provision of ATEX EX sign(s) in areas where Zones of negligible extent

(Zone 2 NE) have been determined is optional. This will depend upon an
assessment of whether the purpose-provided ventilation could become
deliberately or inadvertently reduced.
8.2.3
Access points into sites where hazardous areas exist should be marked with the
ATEX EX sign. They should also be installed at the boundaries of the hazardous
areas, where it is assessed that this will enhance safety.
23
APPENDIX 1 : GLOSSARY, ACRONYMS, UNITS AND SYMBOLS

GLOSSARY
All definitions are given in IGEM/G/4 which is freely available:
as a CD, with the purchase of any IGEM Standard, upon request

by downloading a printable version from IGEMs website http://www.igem.org.uk/.
Recommended and legacy gas metering arrangements are given in IGEM/G/1 which is freely
available:
with the purchase of any IGEM Standard, upon request

by downloading a printable version from IGEMs website.
Downloading from the website ensures access to the latest version.

ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS
ACoP
ATEX
AIV
BSI
CE
DSEAR
ECV
EI
EU
EX
GB
GS(I&U)R
HSE
HSL
IGEM
LDF
LEL
LFL
LPG
MOP
NE
NG
OP
SG
UK
Approved Code of Practice

Atmosphere explosive (Directive 95 & 137)
automatic isolation valve
British Standards Institution
A mark affixed to components to indicate compliance with relevant European
Directives
Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations
emergency control valve
Energy Institute
European Union
explosive
Great Britain
Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations
Health and Safety Executive
Health and Safety Laboratory
Institution of Gas Engineers and Managers
leak detection fluid
lower explosive limit
lower flammability limit
Liquefied Petroleum Gas
maximum operating pressure
negligible extent
Natural Gas
operating pressure
specific gravity
United Kingdom.
UNITS
bar
mbar
mm
mm2
cm2
m
m3
kg kmol-1
MJ m-3
kW
C
bar
millibar
millimetre
square millimetre
square centimetre
metre
cubic metre
kilogram per kilomole
megajoule per cubic metre
kilowatt
degree centigrade.
SYMBOL
%
percentage.
24
APPENDIX 2 : REFERENCES
This Standard is set out against a background of legislation in force in the UK at the time of
publication. Similar considerations are likely to apply in other countries and reference to the
appropriate national legislation will be necessary. The following list is not exhaustive.
All relevant legislation must be complied with and relevant Approved Codes of Practice
(ACoPs), official Guidance Notes and referenced codes, standards, etc. shall be taken into
account.
Where British Standards, etc. are quoted, equivalent national or international standards, etc.
equally may be appropriate.
Care shall be taken to ensure that the latest editions of the relevant documents are used.
A2.1
A2.2
A2.3
LEGISLATION
Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974
Gas Appliances (Safety) Regulations 1995
Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2002

Equipment and Protective Systems Intended for Use in Potentially Explosive
Atmospheres Regulations 1996
Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998
Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999
Pressure Equipment Regulations 1999
Pressure Systems Safety Regulations 2000.
ACoPs AND GUIDANCE NOTES
HSG48
Reducing error and influencing behaviour
HSG65
Successful Health and Safety Management
HSL56
Safety in the installation and use of gas systems and

appliances GS(I&U)R ACoP
HSL134
Design of Plant, equipment and workplaces. DSEAR ACoP
INDG163
5 steps to risk assessment.
BRITISH STANDARDS (ABBREVIATED TITLES)
BS 1552
Specification of opened bottom taper plug valves up to

200 mbar
BS 6400
Specification for installation of domestic-sized gas meters

maximum rated capacity not exceeding 6 m3 h-1 (2nd and
3rd family gases). Low pressure (2nd family gases)
BS 6501
Metal hose assemblies. Guidance on the construction and

use of corrugated hose assemblies
BS 6891
Low pressure pipework in domestic premises
BS 8313
CoP for accommodation of building services in ducts
BS 8487
Construction and design of Gas boosters in association

with combustion equipment
BS EN 331
Manually operated ball valves and closed bottom taper

plug valves for gas installations in buildings
BS EN 676
Automatic forced draught burners for gaseous fuels
BS EN 751
Sealing materials for metallic threaded joints in contact

with 1st, 2nd and 3rd family gases and hot water
25
A2.4
BS EN 1775
Gas pipework for buildings with MOP of 5 bar
BS EN 13463
Non-electrical equipment for use in potentially explosive

atmospheres
BS EN 60079-10-1 Classification of areas for explosive gas atmospheres

Flexible metallic hose assemblies.
IGEM STANDARDS
IGE/GM/5
Edition 3
Electronic gas meter volume conversion systems
IGEM/GM/7A
Electrical connections for gas metering equipment
IGEM/GM/7B
Hazardous area classification for gas metering equipment
IGE/UP/1
Edition 2
Strength testing, tightness testing and direct purging of

industrial and commercial gas installations
IGE/UP/1A
Edition 2
Strength testing, tightness testing and direct purging of

small, low pressure Natural Gas installations
IGE/UP/1B
Edition 2
Tightness testing and purging of domestic sized Natural

Gas
IGEM/UP/2
Edition 2
Installation pipework on industrial and commercial

premises
IGE/UP/10
Edition 3
Installation of flues gas appliances in industrial and

commercial premises
IGEM/SR/25
Hazardous area classification of natural gas installations
IGEM/G/1
3rd Impression
Definitions for the end of a network, meter installation

and installation pipework
IGEM/G/4
Definitions for the gas industry.
A2.5
BS EN ISO 15465
OTHERS
MCSP-P15
Model Code of Safe Practice Part 15: Area Classification

Code for installations handling flammable fluids.
26
APPENDIX 3 : CONCEPT AND REQUIREMENTS FOR HAZARDOUS AREAS

A3.1
GENERAL
A3.1.1
This Appendix covers the various terms used within the gas industry in relation
to hazardous areas.
A3.1.2
The assumptions made in this Appendix are to enable a simplified approach for
hazardous area classification for installation pipework to be described.
Although this Appendix provides much information and guidance, it may be that
a manufacturer of hazardous area equipment has a specific requirement not
covered by this Appendix. As such, where manufacturers instructions and
certificated requirements are different from information in this Appendix, they
take precedence. For detailed information see IGEM/SR/25.
A3.1.3
This Appendix does not address either Continuous or Primary Grade release or
catastrophic failure, for example regulator diaphragm rupture or fractured pipe.
A3.2
HAZARDOUS AREA CONCEPT
A3.2.1
In the hazardous area concept, designed or minor accidental releases are

quantified in terms of probability of formation of flammable atmosphere (Zone
Classification) and the volume of space that is likely to be influenced by such
releases (Extent). Having allocated Zone Classification and Extent, it is possible
to select the relevant explosion protection for electrical equipment to be
installed.
A3.2.2
In order to ascribe Zone Classification and Extent to a potential release of a

flammable substance, consideration has to be made to the Grade of Release,
the Rate of Release and the environment into which the release occurs.
A3.3
GRADE OF RELEASE
A3.3.1
The Grade of Release states how likely a release is to occur from a potential
source.
There are three categories of Grade of Release:
Continuous Grade of Release: A release which is continuous or is expected to

occur for long periods
Primary Grade of Release: A release which can be expected to occur
periodically or occasionally during normal operation
Secondary Grade of Release: A release which is not expected to occur in
normal operation and, if it does occur, is likely to do so only infrequently and
for short periods.
Note:
A3.3.2
Certain items of equipment may be the source of both Primary and Secondary Grades of
Release.
In general, Continuous Grade and Primary Grade sources are engineered

releases such as from pressure relief valves while Secondary Grade sources
release only as a result of minor failure. Secondary Grade Releases typically
occur from flanges, screwed fittings, regulator breathers, etc. and all the zone
classification charts and descriptions relate to such releases.
Note:
Relief valves have to be piped to outside any housing in order to use the charts in
Appendix.
27
HAZARDOUS AREA CONCEPT
Increased ventilation
Leads to
Zone number
Relates to
probability of
formation of
hazardous
atmosphere
Extent volume of
affected space
Leads to
Use of Zone 2 or
higher equipment
Nearest distances
between potential
releases and ignition
sources
Use this information to determine

the above
Grade of release
Continuous,
Primary or
Secondary
Rate of release
Pressure
Hole size
Environment
Ventilation type
Quality
FIGURE 4 - HAZARDOUS AREA CONCEPT DIAGRAM

A3.4
RATE OF RELEASE
A3.4.1
Ascertain the Rate of Release considering:
A3.4.2
the size and form of the likely release aperture

the characteristics of the material release
the pressure available to drive the release.
Assumptions for Secondary Grade releases are:
clean, dry Natural Gas

non-vibratory environment.
These conditions would be expected in installation pipework with an MOP below

5 bar. For MOP greater than 5 bar, see IGEM/SR/25.
Note:
IGEM/SR/25 addresses vents from relief valves and from safety shut off valve systems.
A3.5
ENVIRONMENT/VENTILATION
A3.5.1
This Appendix considers both internal and external types of ventilation.
A3.5.2
This Appendix assumes natural buoyancy-driven ventilation when calculating

dispersion distances for the charts and tables. It also assumes either freely
ventilated for installations not housed, or adequately ventilated installation
housings.
Note:
IGEM/SR/25 describes the assessment of the adequacy of ventilation in naturally ventilated

housings in greater detail.
28
A3.6
ZONE CLASSIFICATION
A3.6.1
When the Rate of Release and ventilation for a given release have been derived,
it is possible to determine the Zone Classification.
A3.6.2
The Zone Classification may be described as being a measure of the likelihood of

a flammable gas/air mixture being present in a particular area, known as a Zone
and the extent of which is X (see A3.7).
The classification may be Zone 0, Zone 1 or Zone 2 or of Negligible Extent (NE).
Under DSEAR it is not possible to have a non-hazardous (safe) area where a
flammable gas exists near pipe joints.
Note:
A3.7
For further detail relating to Grade and Rate of Release and Ventilation, refer to
IGEM/SR/25.
EXTENT
The Extent of the hazardous area zone is the volume surrounding a potential
leak source having a distance X as described shown in Figure 3. X increases
with increasing gas pressure and/or decreasing quality of ventilation and is
ascertained either by dispersion modelling or by recourse to known conservative
distances in established Codes of Practice.
It does not however apply when the extent of the zone is of NE.
29
Determine the zoning distance from

the centre of the fitting.
Figure 3(a) - Screwed fittings and joints up to 50 mm nominal size
Determine the zoning distance from

the edges of the flange.
Figure 3(b) - Flanges

Determine the zoning distance from the
centre for the opening of the valve.
Where the valve is not capped or
plugged, there will also be a Zone 1 area
associated with the valve seat. Where
the valve is capped or plugged, the
threads of these components are treated
as in Figures 1(a) or 1(b). In both cases
all other flanges or screwed connectors
follow Figures 1a or 1b.
Figure 3(c) - Valve connections
Figure 3(d) - Valve glands
Note:
Determine the
zoning distance
from where the
spindle enters the
valve body. For
flanges or screwed
connectors follow
Figures 1(a) or 1(b).
For values of X, for all Zoned classifications except those designated NE are given in
IGEM/SR/25.
FIGURE 5 - EXTENT OF THE HAZARDOUS AREA SURROUNDING FITTINGS,

VALVE GLANDS AND REGULATORS (SECONDARY GRADE RELEASES
OUTDOORS EXCEPT THOSE DESIGNATED NE)
30
APPENDIX 4 : WORKED EXAMPLES

A4.1
Example 1 - Naturally ventilated boiler rooms 80 m3 and 30 m3
A4.1.1
The boiler room is 80 m3 volume and has pitched roof 3 m high. The gas
pipework is all welded except at the two appliances. The ventilation is located on
the front wall based on 400 kW nett heat input to the appliances or 800 cm2 at
high level and 1600 cm2 at low level. The incoming pipe is located above eaves
level. The boiler room is visited daily.
high level vent
3m
appliance
appliance
ventilator grille
m
8/5
10/6 m
FIGURE 6 EXAMPLE OF A BOILER ROOM NATURALLY VENTILATED

With an MOP of 80 mbar, the IGE/UP/10 ventilation of 800 cm2 and 1600 cm2
would be in excess of the 91 x 0.82 = 75 cm2 free area required and would be
adequate. Again high level; ventilation above the pipe is recommended of
75 cm2.
At say 210 mbar OP, Table 1 requires low & high level ventilation each of
1240 x 0.82 (3 m height factor) = 1020 cm2.
This is exceeded by the design low level ventilation.
But to achieve Zone 2 NE, it will be needed to increase the high level ventilation
above the pipe by fitting at least
1020-800 = 220 cm2 free area grilles.
Ventilation is well distributed. The threaded joints are not within 1 m of
3 surfaces. The installation will be inspected using combustible gas detector on
a 6 monthly basis to ensure there is no indication of gas leakage.
The installation achieves Zone 2 NE classification.
A4.1.2
The boiler room is 30 m3 volume and has a flat roof 2.5 m high. The gas
pipework is working at 60 mbar, it is all screwed. The ventilation is located on
the front wall as before based on 100 kW nett heat input to the appliances or
200 cm2 at high level and 400 cm2 at low level. The incoming pipe is located
above low level behind the boilers. The boiler room is visited twice a year.
31
appliance
appliance
2.5 m
60 mbar
5m
ventilator grille
6m
FIGURE 7 EXAMPLE OF A BOILER ROOM WITH A FLAT ROOF

Table 1 requires low & high level ventilation each of 620 cm2 (ignoring the
height factor). This is not exceeded by the design IGE/UP/10 ventilation.
Ventilation is well distributed. The threaded joints are not within 1 m of
3 surfaces. The installation will be inspected using combustible gas detector on
a 6 monthly basis to ensure there is no indication of gas leakage.
The high level ventilation above the pipe will need to be increased by fitting at
least
Similarly the low level ventilation will need to be increased by fitting at least
The installation will now achieve a Zone 2 NE classification.
The alternative to increasing the ventilation would be to visit the boiler house on
a more frequent basis, say weekly, to ensure there is no smell/indication of
leaking gas. In which case the ventilation requirement in Table 1 falls from
620 cm2 to 65 cm2 and the IGE/UP/10 ventilation would be adequate.
32
A4.2
Example 2 - Mechanically ventilated boiler room 80 m3
FIGURE 8 EXAMPLE OF BOILER ROOM WITH MECHANICAL

VENTILATION
This example is as A4.1 but here the mechanical ventilation is blowing in at high
level with internal downwards facing louvres to force the air down towards the
floor. The room is visited twice a year. The pipes are threaded at 60 mbar OP.
The inlet duct size to the fan is 400 cm2 free area. The outlet natural ventilation
is 800 cm2. As the fans are not continuous running we must again determine the
ventilation according to Table 1. In this case there is no low level ventilation so
we must install similar ventilation to that in A4.1.2.
Thus we need low and high level ventilation of 620 cm2.
At high level this is provided by the high level ventilation but we still need
ventilation above the pipe joints, which should be taken as a minimum of
50 cm2 as well as 620 cm2 at low level for the installation to achieve a Zone 2
NE classification.
A4.3
Example 3 - Horizontal ceiling duct

The duct is a ceiling space above an occupied room such as an office or
classroom. This space does not communicate with any other space. The room is
6 m square and the ceiling space is 400 mm high in which there is lighting and a
pipe with screwed connections and MOP at 50 mbar.
In this example ventilation will be required on all four walls of 100 mm2 free
area and a grille near to each joint of 100 mm2 free area. The four perimeter
vents should be centrally located or distributed along the walls.
If the space had access to an external wall it would be better exchange the
100 mm2 ventilator on that wall with a 65 mm2 external ventilator located as
high as practical within the space.
With these design criteria the installation will achieve a Zone 2 NE classification.
33
FIGURE 9 - EXAMPLE OF A HORIZONTAL CEILING DUCT

A4.4
Example 4 - High level loft space

In this case the loft is separated by a ceiling at eaves level. Loft spaces have for
many years been required under UK Building Regulations to have soffit/eaves
ventilation which should always exceed 0.5 air changes per hour. In addition
there may be adventitious air leakage at high level via the tiles. Such ventilation
will be spread throughout the loft space for good distribution and no extra high
level ventilation will be need to achieve Zone 2 NE. However, where the surface
below the tiles is sealed with a vapour permeable underlay (BS 5250:2002)
which is designed to minimise air flow and to permit the control of humidity,
extra high level ventilation will be needed as required by the buoyancy
ventilation requirements in column 1 or 2 of Table 1 depending on whether the
high level ventilation is on one or more walls.
FIGURE 10 - EXAMPLE OF A HIGH LEVEL LOFT SPACE

34
A4.5
Example 5 - Basement rooms 20 m3 and 8 m3

It would be normal to have 0.5 air changes per hour in internal spaces.
For the installation to achieve Zone 2 NE classification;
for existing installations, the minimum requirement with 0.5 air change per
hour locations is for an annual check for leakage using LDF or a combustible
gas detector and annual maintenance of the pipework to ensure that there is
no corrosion that might lead to failure.
for new installations, the OP shall not exceed 50 mbar and either of the
following shall be applied:
the room shall be ventilated externally at high and low levels via ducts
using twice the values given in Table 1 column 2. For spaces over
20 m3, the ventilation shall be dispersed within the room to ensure all
leakage sources are ventilated and they are not in stagnant areas, that
is within 1 m of three surfaces, or
the room shall be mechanically ventilated to achieve at least 0.5 air

changes per hour and interlocked with an automatic isolation valve in
the incoming gas supply, or
the room shall be ventilated at high and low level in any separating
doors as per Column 2 of Table 1 back up into the ventilated parts of
the building. It is noted that where this breeches fire protection within
the building that the ventilators will need to be protected, for example
with fire dampers.
35
APPENDIX 5: EXAMPLES OF GENERIC RISK ASSESSMENTS

The following examples use the principle outlined in HSE Guidance INDG 163 - 5 Steps to Risk
Assessment.
In each case they will need to be considered by a person with the ability to recognise the
relevant safety issues required to satisfy the requirements of DSEAR.
These assessments only relate to low pressure installations design constructed and tested to
recognised UK standards and to which a process of maintenance has been specified and
implemented. For existing installations not meeting the recommendations in this standard, the
Risk Assessment needs to consider additional measures for leak mitigation such as may be
satisfied in manned installations or more regular site visits with a combustible gas detector.
They are not intended to be applied as given to reciprocating gas engines and gas
compressors which may be seen to be vibrating machinery.
Where mechanical ventilation is provided additional consideration should be given to the
naturally ventilated condition when the fan(s) are not operational. These may require
automatic isolation valves, alarms or interlocks if the ventilation figures given in Table 1 are
not met.
36
IGEM/UP/16 - Draft for Comment
Client:
Problem description : Potential gas leakage from rigid pipework, joints and components of MOP 0.5 bar
Address:
Date:
Assessment performed by:
Hazard
Build-up of potential
hazardous
atmosphere
Who might be
harmed
Persons nearby
Failure of flange
gasket
Persons nearby
Failure of valve stem

seal
Failure of pipe
material
Persons nearby
Failure of threaded
joints
Persons nearby
Failure of unions and

mechanical joints
Failure of welded
joint
Persons nearby
Persons nearby
Persons nearby
Control of risk at installation
Ongoing control
Pipework to be installed in well ventilated

areas to e.g, IGEM/UP/2 and BS EN 1775,
by competent persons, with minimum
joints, and subsequently tested to
IGE/UP/1 or IGE/UP/1A.
Initial tightness test to IGE/UP/1 or
IGE/UP/1A. Standard flanges and gaskets
selected for pressure above MOP.
Valves selected for operation at above
MOP, e.g. BS 1552, BS EN 331.
Supplied by reputable manufacturers
meeting European Union (EU)/UK
standards selected for pressure above
MOP, e.g. IGEM/UP/2.
IGE/UP/1A. Recommended sealant
materials used to BS EN 751.
IGE/UP/1A.
IGE/UP/IA. Competent welders employed.
See BS EN 1775 and IGEM/UP/2.
Maintain during life, ensure continued

ventilation, check for leakage as necessary and
check for leakage on disturbed joints.
Perform checks for leakage during servicing.
Perform checks for leakage during valve
servicing.
Maintain pipework against corrosion. Ensure
no damage in service.
Perform check of pipework for any noticeable
leakage on disturbed joints.
Validate tightness during work on joints.
Maintain corrosion protection measures and
support. Visual inspection.
TABLE 8 RISK ASSESSMENT FOR RIGID PIPEWORK, JOINTS AND COMPONENTS OF MOP 0.5 BAR
Conclusions
The above indicates that a Zone 2 hazardous area classification is not necessary if correctly installed, tested, maintained
and correctly checked for leakage at intervals during service life. At all times there must be adequate ventilation within
the areas that the pipework is installed. A Zone 2 NE classification shall be designated for all the pipework
Hazardous zones may, however be generated by external sources and, in such cases, certified equipment suitable for the
zone classification for the area may be required. The influences of external vibration and installation may also affect the
zone classification of the area. Gas boosters/compressors will require further consideration and added protection. In such
cases, reference may be made to standards such as IGE/UP/3, IGEM/UP/6, IGE/UP/9, IGEM/SR/25, BS EN 13463,
BS EN 60079-10-1 and BS 8487.
37
Problem description : Potential gas leakage from gas boosters MOP 0.5 bar
Address:
Date:
Client:
Hazard
hazardous
atmosphere
Who might be
harmed
Persons nearby
Ongoing control
Machines installed in well ventilated

uncongested areas to e.g. IGEM/UP/2,
IGE/UP/10, by competent persons, with
minimum joints and subsequently tested
to IGE/UP/1.

ventilation, check for leakage as
necessary and check for leakage on
disturbed joints.
Perform checks for leakage during
servicing.
Failure of pipework
Persons nearby
Tested for leakage at manufacture. Initial

tightness tests during commissioning (see
IGEM/UP/4.)
Failure of flexible
connections
Persons nearby
See separate Risk Assessment.
Failure of
components
Persons nearby
Components supplied by reputable

manufacturers meeting EU/UK standards.
Materials specified to withstand MOP.
Maintain against corrosion and according

to manufacturers instructions.
Failure of castings
Persons nearby
Booster selected to comply with BS 8487
Failure of
mechanical seals
Persons nearby
Initial tightness test. Components must

be suitable for MOP and temperature.
Ensure no strain on castings during

installation and servicing. Perform checks
for leakage during servicing.
Ensure fixed to secure base as
manufacturers instructions.
Perform checks for leakage during annual
servicing.
TABLE 9 RISK ASSESSMENT FOR GAS BOOSTERS OF MOP 0.5 BAR

Conclusions
The above indicates that a Zone 2 hazardous area classification is not necessary provided that machines and associated
pipework and controls are correctly installed, tested, maintained and correctly checked for leakage at intervals during
service life. At all times there must be adequate ventilation within the areas that the appliance is installed. A Zone 2 NE
classification shall be designated for all the pipework and gas controls.
Hazardous zones may, however, be generated by external sources and, in such cases, zoned equipment may be required.
Influences of external vibration and installation may also affect the requirement for zoned equipment. In such cases,
reference may be made to standards such as IGE/UP/10, IGE/UP/12, IGE/UP/3 and IGEM/UP/6, IGEM/SR/25,
BS EN 13463 and BS EN 60079-10-1.
38
Client:
Problem description : Potential gas leakage from appliance connections and pipework of MOP 0.5 bar
Address:
Date:
Hazard
hazardous
atmosphere
Who might be
harmed
Persons nearby

Appliances to be installed in well
ventilated areas to e.g. IGE/UP/3,
IGE/UP/10, IGE/UP/12, by competent
persons, with minimum joints and
subsequently tested to IGE/UP/1.
Ongoing control
disturbed joints. Check for leakage of
incomplete combustion products and
production of carbon monoxide.
servicing.
Failure of pipework
Persons nearby
Tested for leakage at manufacture. Initial

tightness tests during commissioning (see
IGEM/UP/4.)
Failure of
components
Persons nearby
Appliances supplied by reputable

Materials able to withstand MOP.
Maintain pipework against corrosion and

according to manufacturers instructions.
Failure of regulator
diaphragms
Persons nearby
Regulators made EU standards suitable for

at least MOP.

servicing.
Failure of
mechanical seals
Persons nearby


servicing.
TABLE 10 RISK ASSESSMENT FOR APPLIANCE CONNECTIONS AND PIPEWORK OF MOP 0.5 BAR
Conclusions
The above indicates that a Zone 2 hazardous area classification is not necessary provided that appliances and associated
pipework and controls are correctly installed, tested, maintained and correctly checked for leakage at intervals during
service life. At all times there must be adequate ventilation within the areas that the appliance is installed. A Zone 2 NE
classification shall be designated for all the pipework and gas controls.
BS EN 13463 and BS EN 60079-10-1.
39
hazardous atmosphere
Caused by material failure
Who might be
harmed
Persons nearby

Hoses, bellows and etc., to be selected for
operation at above MOP, e.g. IGEM/UP/2
and BS 6501.
It is most important that during initial
installation and subsequent maintenance
activities there are no additional adverse
torsional stresses imposed upon the
flexibles. Twisting and excessive bending
shorten the life.
Ongoing control
For flexibles subject to frequent
movement or vibration (as on register
burners, compressors and engines)
perform checks for leakage quarterly.
For all other flexibles perform checks at
least during annual servicing.
Consider replacement policy, for example
every 5 years.
TABLE 11 RISK ASSESSMENT FOR BELLOWS, FLEXIBLE PIPES, HOSES AND CONNECTIONS OF MOP 0.5 BAR
Conclusions
The above indicates that a Zone 2 hazardous area classification is not necessary provided that flexible pipes, bellows,
flexible hoses and flexible connections are correctly installed, tested, maintained and correctly checked for leakage at
intervals during service life. At all times there must be adequate ventilation within the areas that the flexible pipes, bellows,
flexible hoses and flexible connections are installed. A Zone 2 NE classification shall be designated for all the pipework and
gas controls.
BS EN 13463 and BS EN 60079-10-1.
40
Hazardous area considerations Risk Assessment

DSEAR Regulation 5
Hazard
A3.5
Problem description : Potential gas leakage from flexible pipes, bellows, flexible hoses and flexible connections MOP 0.5 bar
Client:
Address:
Date:
Hazard

Appliances to be installed in well
ventilated areas to e.g. IGE/UP/3,
IGE/UP/10, IGE/UP/12, by competent
persons, with minimum joints and
subsequently tested to IGE/UP/1.
Manufactured to EU/UK standards Tested
for leakage at manufacture. Valves and
fittings by reputable manufacturers.
Appliances supplied by reputable
Ongoing control
disturbed joints. Check for leakage of
incomplete combustion products and
production of carbon monoxide.
servicing.
Failure of gas train

valves or pipe-work
Persons nearby
Failure of
components
Persons nearby
Failure of regulator
diaphragms
Persons nearby
Regulators made to EU standards suitable

for at least MOP.

servicing.
Failure of
mechanical seals
Persons nearby


servicing.
Leakage from test

points on gas train
Persons nearby
Capped or plugged with suitable fitting.

Leak tested at manufacture and
commissioning. Gas trains installed in
position open to ventilation air flows.
Follow correct servicing/ testing

procedures by competent service
engineers
Maintain pipework against corrosion and

according to manufacturers instructions.
TABLE 12 RISK ASSESSMENT FOR GAS APPLIANCES OF MOP 0.5 BAR

Conclusions
The above indicates that a Zone 2 hazardous area classification is not necessary, provided that gas appliances are
correctly installed, tested, maintained and correctly checked for leakage at intervals during service life. At all times there
must be adequate ventilation within the areas that the gas appliances are installed. A Zone 2 NE classification shall be
designated for all the pipework and gas controls.
BS EN 13463 and BS EN 60079-10-1.
41
Hazardous area considerations Risk Assessment

DSEAR Regulation 5
hazardous
atmosphere
Who might be
harmed
Persons nearby
A3.5
Problem description : Potential gas leakage from gas appliances MOP 0.5 bar
Address:
Date:
Client:
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INSTITUTION OF GAS ENGINEERS AND MANAGERS

Hazardous area classification for Natural

This is a copyright document of the Institution of Gas Engineers and Managers.

Hazardous area classification for Natural

Hazardous area classification for Natural

Price Code: C10H

Copyright 2010, IGEM. All rights reserved

IGEM/UP/16 Draft for Comment

Legal and allied considerations

Considerations of relevance to the determination of zone classifications

Information for commercial and industrial designs

System design checklist for Zone 2 NE compliance

Generic risk assessments

Glossary, acronyms, units and symbols

and requirements for hazardous areas

Examples of generic risk assessments

IGEM/UP/16 Draft for Comment

Signposts to hazardous area classification

Pipework layouts showing preferred pipe locations for Zone 2 NE classification 13

Example of an installation with congested leak locations

Hazardous area concept diagram

Example of a boiler room naturally ventilated

Example of a boiler room mechanically ventilated

Example of boiler room with mechanical ventilation

Example of a horizontal ceiling duct

Example of a high level loft space

Zone 2 NE natural ventilation requirements

Preliminary assessment for all pipework

Assessment for pipework in ceiling spaces or ducts

Assessment for pipework in high level spaces within rooms

Assessment for pipework in small spaces

Assessment for gas booster installations

Assessment for installations which are continuously ventilated by mechanical

Risk assessment for gas boosters of MOP 0.5 bar

Risk assessment for gas appliances of MOP 0.5 bar

IGEM/UP/16 Draft for Comment

The Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations (DSEAR)

IGEM/UP/16 Draft for Comment

available on site and that installations are maintained and inspected as

This Standard makes use of the

the term must identifies a requirement by law in UK at the time of

have done everything to ensure, so far as it is reasonably practicable, that

Requests for interpretation of this Standard in relation to matters within the

IGEM/UP/16 Draft for Comment

This Standard was published in xxxxxxx 2010.

IGEM/UP/16 Draft for Comment

This Standard covers gas installations containing predominantly methane such

The following are not covered by this Standard:

installation pipework downstream of the ECV within a domestic dwelling

Pressures quoted are gauge pressures unless otherwise stated.

Italicised text is informative and does not represent formal requirements.

Appendices are informative and do not represent formal requirements unless

IGEM/UP/16 Draft for Comment

FIGURE 1 SIGNPOSTS TO HAZARDOUS AREA CLASSIFICATION

IGEM/UP/16 Draft for Comment

SECTION 3 : LEGAL AND ALLIED CONSIDERATIONS

This Standard is set out against a background of legislation in force in the UK at

Appendix 2 is relevant in this respect.

Where British Standards, etc. are quoted, equivalent national or international

HEALTH AND SAFETY AT WORK ETC. ACT (HSWA)

The assessments given in Appendix 4 are intended for:

DSEAR is an expansion of the general duty to manage risks under the

IGEM/UP/16 Draft for Comment