Following best practices for SN EN ISO 80079-36:2016 compliance is crucial for ensuring safety in explosive atmospheres and preparing for audits effectively.

Best practices at a glance

The following checklist outlines essential best practices that align with the clauses of SN EN ISO 80079-36:2016. These practices cover key areas such as construction requirements, testing protocols, and safety considerations, ensuring that non-electrical equipment is compliant with international standards for use in explosive atmospheres.

The practices

1. Ensure robust construction and design
   Adhere to stringent construction and design requirements as outlined in Clause 5 of SN EN ISO 80079-36:2016. This practice is critical to prevent mechanical failure and avoid potential explosion risks. Proper design ensures that equipment can withstand the harsh conditions present in explosive atmospheres.

2. Conduct thorough testing and marking
   Implement a rigorous testing regime in accordance with Clause 6, ensuring that non-electrical equipment is tested for safety and reliability. Accurate marking not only provides essential information for users but also fulfills auditor expectations regarding compliance documentation.

3. Incorporate reliable components and protection systems
   Select components that meet the protection requirements specified in Clause 7. This practice helps mitigate risks associated with explosion by ensuring that all parts of the equipment are designed to withstand potential ignition sources in hazardous environments.

4. Define normal atmospheric conditions for operation
   Clearly outline the normal atmospheric conditions under which the equipment operates, as per Clause 8. Documenting these parameters is vital for assessing compliance and for auditors to verify that the equipment is suitable for its intended environment.

5. Prioritize safety considerations related to explosion risks
   Follow the guidance in Clause 9 to identify and assess potential explosion risks associated with the equipment. This proactive approach minimizes hazards and aligns with the expectations of safety regulations, enhancing overall compliance.

6. Understand the relationship to EU Directive 2014/34/EU
   Familiarize yourself with how SN EN ISO 80079-36:2016 aligns with EU Directive 2014/34/EU, as highlighted in Clause 10. This knowledge is essential for demonstrating compliance and understanding broader regulatory implications.

7. Recognize significant changes from previous standards
   Stay updated on the significant changes introduced in the 2016 version compared to earlier standards, per Clause 11. Awareness of these updates is crucial for maintaining compliance and ensuring that practices are current.

8. Classify equipment groups correctly
   Follow the classification guidelines mentioned in Clause 12 to ensure that all non-electrical equipment is categorized appropriately. This classification is vital for targeting specific safety measures and for aligning with regulatory expectations.

Audit preparation checklist

• Ensure robust construction and design as per Clause 5
• Conduct thorough testing and marking following Clause 6
• Incorporate reliable components and protection systems according to Clause 7
• Define normal atmospheric conditions for operation as stated in Clause 8
• Prioritize safety considerations related to explosion risks in Clause 9
• Understand the relationship to EU Directive 2014/34/EU in Clause 10
• Recognize significant changes from previous standards in Clause 11
• Classify equipment groups correctly as detailed in Clause 12

Next steps

To deepen your understanding of ISO 80079-36:2016 guidelines, consider pursuing formal training, consulting implementation guides, or purchasing the standard for comprehensive insights into compliance practices.