Seamless Safety for ATEX Environments

Explosive environments require an access control system that complies with the requirements of ATEX standards. Three key issues dominate: ensuring the safety of sensitive areas, securing isolated workers and controlling authorized vehicles. However, the technological response must merge seamless security with fluidity of use. STid’s underline focus is on the challenges of access control in securing sensitive areas in an ATEX environment.
Migrating Towards High-security Technologies
Applicable since 2006, the European ATEX directive 1999/92/EC requires the implementation of a risk analysis approach to guarantee the safety of people. Over time, some sites have installed various systems: keys, cards, which themselves use technologies such as magnetic stripes, Mifare chips, etc. The result is:

• Disparate systems
• A variable level of security
• Heavy day-to-day management
• Expensive maintenance costs

These systems must migrate to scalable, high-security technologies adapted to the needs of the field. As an example, with their latest deployment in the pharmaceutical industry, STid had to guarantee access security for visitors as well as for production operators. The aim was to provide a high security response in the ATEX universe.
In particular, chips such as the Desfire EV2 will produce greater levels of security comparable to the banking sector, more flexibility in key and file management and greater reading distances. Coupled with an end-to-end secure architecture, the contract goal is then fulfilled!

Smooth Access for Production Operators
STid meets two fundamental industry requirements: safety and reliability. Our ranges of RFID readers comply with all international market standards: ATEX (EN60079) & IECEx certifications, European directives (99/92/CE and 94/9/CE). A sine qua none condition that guarantees the absence of any failure that could lead to an explosion!
This thinking has led STid to introduce UHF technology to manage the access of forklift drivers in ATEX zones. It’s no longer just about identifying the Fenwick Truck with a simple ground loop detector. It is now the driver who manages the entrance. He offers out his card, without putting his foot on the ground. The traffic is now more fluid and safer. At the same time, another problem is being addressed: how to combine safety requirements with increased performance of logistical operations.
“We went into the field to be as close as possible to our customer’s needs,” explains Vincent Dupart, Managing Director of STid. “Our strength? Our ability to support manufacturers in the implementation of a contactless access control and identification solutions for any and indeed all challenging environments!”.