Many working environments can contain risks – not least, the risk of explosion.
Whether from the presence of flammable materials, liquids, gases or dusts – or the potential build-up of vapours or particles in the atmosphere – the risk of explosion is present in many workplaces.
We deliver CompEx training – an internationally recognised safety training scheme – to help staff and employers identify, manage and reduce the risk of explosions.
But what is CompEx training? What does it entail and why does it matter?
What is CompEx?
Competency in Explosive Atmospheres – or CompEx – is the global competency standard for people working within potentially hazardous or explosive areas.
Potentially explosive environments are common in manufacturing, food and beverage production, chemicals, maritime, pharmaceuticals, utilities and oil & gas.
However, they can occur in almost any industry or sector.
It is often assumed that explosive risks are only present where flammable materials, chemicals, liquids, dusts or gasses are present – but explosive risk can also result (often unexpectedly) from an unassuming accumulation within the atmosphere.
Why does CompEx training matter?
CompEx workforce certification enables companies to demonstrate compliance with all relevant legislation and regulations – helping to reduce risks to people, property and reputation.
CompEx is by far the world’s most respected qualification for explosive risks. CompEx training helps make people and workplaces safer and certification is often a pre-requisite in industries and workplaces around the globe.
What does CompEx training entail?
CompEx training combines theory, practise and assessment to ensure workers can safely design, install, inspect and maintain equipment which has the potential to trigger an explosion in hazardous environments.
This includes:
- Classroom theory – Instruction is provided on international safety standards (such as IEC 60079), differing area and zone classifications, temperature risks and identifying sources of ignition
- Practical training – Hands-on exercises are used to replicate hazardous areas. This is centred around safe wiring, glanding cables, earthing equipment and regular maintenance to reduce risk
- Formal assessment – A combination of both written or online exams and practical competency tests help ensure learners have retained the knowledge they need
Depending on the individual modules and requirements, a CompEx training course can take around one to five days, though it differs for each course.
What are the common CompEx modules?
CompEx training and certification is structured around specific modules tailored to different roles, environments and explosive risks.
Common modules include…
- Ex01 to Ex04 – Focuses on explosive gases and vapours, this is the most common standard for electricians and technicians working in potentially explosive atmospheres
- Ex05 to Ex06 – Focuses on environments with combustible particles, such as material dust or powdered food stuffs
- Ex11 – Focuses on mechanical engineers dealing with non-electrical equipment where friction and heat can be a source of ignition
- Ex12 and Ex14 – Advanced modules for design engineers, managers and ‘Responsible Persons’ overseeing operations
What is CompEx certification?
CompEx certification is internationally recognised and accredited in the UK by UKAS.
Having completed the relevant training and passed a number of theoretical and practical assessments, learners receive a ‘Certificate of Core Competence’ which is valid for five years.
After five years, certificate holders can complete a shorter refresher or ‘Recognised Practitioners Programme’ (RPP) to maintain their accreditation.
Why choose ExVeritas for CompEx training?
At ExVeritas, we are one of the world’s most experienced explosive ‘Ex’ training providers.
Our training is developed and delivered by highly experienced practitioners and industry partners and kept up to date with our bespoke online learning system.
We offer a wide range of CompEx training and other hazardous area courses at our training centres – and can deliver courses for larger cohorts within your own premises.
Once registered with ExVeritas, you will have access to our pre- and post-learning tools including examination preparation, exams and software tools at www.LearnEx.Online. These can also help maintain Continued Professional Development (CPD).
Discover more about our tutors
Michael Hunter
Mike’s specialisms include Ex F, Ex01-06, Ex11 and site inspections – and he has been working in the industry for 50 years.
His favourite fact about hazardous areas is that the Davy Safety Lamp not only provided light underground but also helped detect explosive methane gas, making it an early form of gas detection technology and a vital step in the journey toward today’s hazardous area safety standards.
And a fun fact about Mike himself? He played semi-professional rugby in his younger days and has broken over 20 bones in his body!
Richard Smith
Richard has been working in the Ex industry for over 30 years and specialises in Ex F, Ex01-04 and Ex05-06.
Richard’s fun fact about hazardous areas is that there are two hazardous areas in the village he lives in. Although he doesn’t know why, he has seen two areas with Ex triangle signs – they are more common than you think.
And a little about Richard himself…
He can name all the FA Cup winning teams in the 1970s – in order!
About ExVeritas
ExVeritas is part of NMi Group, a European family of businesses which specialise in testing, inspection, certification and calibration services.
At ExVeritas, we deliver CompEx training and certification for employees and employers across the UK, in many key industries.
In addition, we conduct DSEAR and ATEX audits to help businesses identify potential explosive environments, reduce risks and comply with all relevant regulations.
As a Certification Body Testing Lab (CBTL), we test and certify products for UKCA, ATEX, IECEx and other explosive safety standards.
We are a UK government appointed body for UKCA ‘Ex’, an ATEX notified body and an IECEx certification body.
To find out more about our training services, visit: https://landing.exveritas.com/ex-training