Expert HAZID, HAZOP, and Hazardous Area Classification Assessments in Slovakia
As well as our work in the UK, OTECSA are also regularly involved in helping clients across Europe with our process safety expertise. One such example is Franke Sink Systems in Strecno, Slovakia.
Franke sinks were previously manufactured in Falkirk, Scotland. In the mid 2010’s production was moved to a new build facility in Europe and Strecno, Slovakia was chosen as the new location. The Franke site in Strecno produces composite sinks that are used throughout the world and this state of the art new build facility uses high technology robotic systems and traditional manufacturing methods side by side to produce sinks of all shapes, sizes and of different compositions and colours.
OTECSA personnel have been involved in the Franke Strecno site for several years, initially assisting with the process risk assessments such as HAZOP study and LOPA studies for the production process operations being built at Strecno. This then expanded to cover the hazardous area classification of the site. Hazardous area classification is required in any facility where flammable liquids, vapours or gases are present or produced, as well as where combustible dust materials may be present.
The production of sinks involves various chemicals which can be considered flammable or combustible and each of these needs careful consideration from an ATEX perspective to ensure hazardous areas are correctly defined. This helps to ensure ignition sources can be controlled, and the correct equipment is specified for the area.
Following the design stage assessments, OTECSA have made several trips to Strecno over the past few years to carry out further risk assessments for the facility, including a site with HAZID (Hazard Identification) study to ensure Franke comply with internal process safety management (PSM) practices. This was a particularly interesting project for us as the site involves several different production operations as well as a state of the art robotic distribution system for sink manufacturing raw materials. It is the first time we have been on a site with a robot delivery system playing classical music while driving around a facility to let you know it is nearby.
We have also helped Franke with bespoke risk assessments for waste handling operations and provided specialist advice for improvement to local extract ventilation (LEV) systems handling combustible dusts.
Do you need us to undertake a HAZOP study or other Process Safety work for your organisation? Get in touch with us here.