Level 3, Closed systems
Engineering solutions for high-hazard tasks where airborne release of the substance has to be practically excluded.
Level 3 describes solutions for implementing a closed system. Integrated extraction systems can also be classified as closed when they are effective enough that airborne release of the substance is practically excluded. For most workplaces, designing a closed system is not a do-it-yourself exercise: it is usually best to bring in a process-engineering or plant-engineering specialist.
Skin contact should be avoided as far as possible at this level. There is currently only one fire- and explosion-protection guideline at Level 3, covering high fire-protection requirements for closed systems.
Closed systems
| No. | Title |
|---|---|
| 300 | Closed system |
| 301 | Glove box |
| 305 | Drum filling |
| 306 | Drum emptying |
| 307 | Filling and emptying IBC containers (solids) |
| 308 | Filling and emptying IBC containers (liquids) |
| 310 | Filling and emptying tank vehicles |
| 312 | Pumping liquids |
Fire and explosion protection
| No. | Title |
|---|---|
| PC-370 | High fire-protection measures, basic requirements for closed systems |
When Level 3 is the right answer
The EMKG points you to Level 3 when one or more of the following holds for the activity:
- The hazard group is at the upper end of the scale (typically D or E for inhalation, HD or HE for skin).
- The release is high and the quantity is medium or large.
- The substance is a CMR (carcinogenic, mutagenic, or toxic to reproduction) substance and substitution is not possible.
- The fire or explosion risk requires the substance to be handled in an enclosed system.
For substances with particularly hazardous properties, get expert advice. Use the EMKG assessment to confirm the control level for your specific scenario, then pick the matching guideline above.