When designing CCTV systems for industrial and offshore environments, the choice between Safe Area CCTV cameras and ATEX CCTV cameras key requirements depends on the location’s classification and the associated risks.
While both types of cameras serve the purpose of providing surveillance, they are designed to meet vastly different operational and safety requirements.
Let’s dive into this blog as the key requirements and uses are highlighted Safe Area & ATEX CCTV cameras;
1. What are Safe Area CCTV cameras?
Safe Area CCTV cameras are designed for use in environments where there is no risk of explosive gases, vapors, or dust. These areas are classified as non-hazardous and do not require equipment with explosion-proof certifications.
Key requirements for Safe Area CCTV cameras
Below are the key requirements;
- Standard Design: These cameras follow general industry standards for durability and weather resistance, such as IP66/67 ratings for protection against dust and water.
- Cost-Effective: They are less expensive compared to ATEX cameras, as they do not require specialized enclosures or certifications.
- Flexibility: A wide range of models are available, including PTZ (pan-tilt-zoom), thermal imaging, and high-resolution cameras for general surveillance.
- Installation Considerations: Cameras for safe areas can be installed without special precautions, making them easier and quicker to deploy.
Safe area CCTV cameras common applications are;
- Warehouses
- Offices
- General industrial areas without explosive risks
2. What are ATEX CCTV cameras?
ATEX (Atmosphères Explosibles) CCTV cameras are specifically designed and certified for use in hazardous areas where there is a risk of explosions due to flammable gases, vapors, or dust.
These areas are classified as Zone 0, Zone 1, or Zone 2 depending on the frequency and duration of the explosive atmosphere’s presence.
Key requirements for ATEX CCTV Cameras
- Explosion-Proof Design: Cameras are housed in robust enclosures made from materials like stainless steel or aluminum to contain and prevent sparks from igniting external gases or dust.
- ATEX Certification: Compliance with ATEX Directive 2014/34/EU, which ensures the equipment is safe for hazardous zones.
- Ingress Protection (IP): Typically rated IP66 or higher for resistance to dust, water, and corrosive environments.
- Temperature Ratings: Designed to operate within specific temperature ranges to prevent overheating, which could trigger explosions.
- Wiring and Cabling: Must use certified cable glands and conduits to maintain the explosion-proof integrity of the system.
- Remote Monitoring: Often integrated with control room systems in hazardous environments like offshore platforms.
Common Applications
- Oil and gas facilities (e.g., FPSOs, refineries, drilling rigs)
- Chemical plants
- Grain silos and mills
- Pharmaceutical manufacturing with flammable solvents
Key differences between Safe Area & ATEX CCTV cameras
Feature
Safe Area CCTV cameras
ATEX CCTV cameras
Location
Non-hazardous areas
Hazardous areas (Zone 0,1,2)
Certification
No special certification required
ATEX, IECEx, or equivalent certifications
Cost
Relatively low
Higher due to specialized design
Construction
Standard material
Explosion proof enclosures (e.g., stainless steel)
Installation
No special requirements
Requires certified accessories and procedures
Maintenance
Simple, with general servicing
Requires inspection to ensure ATEX compliance
What choose the right camera?
- Safety: In hazardous environments, using uncertified equipment can lead to catastrophic explosions, risking lives and assets.
- Compliance: Regulatory authorities require strict adherence to standards like ATEX for equipment in explosive atmospheres.
- Durability: ATEX cameras are designed to withstand harsh conditions, ensuring long-term reliability in hazardous environments.
- Cost-Efficiency: For non-hazardous areas, Safe Area cameras provide an economical solution without overengineering.
Selecting the right camera for your application
To determine whether you need a Safe Area or ATEX CCTV camera, assess the following.
- Risk Assessment: Identify whether the area is classified as hazardous or non-hazardous.
- Environmental Conditions: Evaluate exposure to dust, water, and corrosive substances.
- Operational Needs: Determine whether features like PTZ, infrared, or thermal imaging are required.
- Compliance Requirements: Consult local and international safety standards to ensure compliance.
Get the right team
Partner with Vivo Asia for top expert engineering and get all your CCTV requirements for Safe area or ATEX CCTV cameras, which are expertly designed to protect and enhance security to the harshest environments.
Vivo Asia has 10 years of experience in providing security solutions in an industry setting, Get in touch with us at contact@vivoasia.com
