Safety in Hazardous Areas
Understanding Competency, Compliance, and CompEx
About
Following the lessons learned from the devastating Piper Alpha Disaster in 1988, the CompEx Certification Scheme was established to raise competency standards for those working in hazardous and explosive atmospheres. Today, with tens of thousands of certified practitioners worldwide, CompEx is recognised as the global benchmark for hazardous area competency.
This presentation will provide an introduction to the role of CompEx Certification Scheme and its importance in helping industry manage the risks associated with explosive atmospheres.
The session will also cover key topics including an introduction to hazardous areas, how they are classified, and the complex legislative landscape that governs them, including relevant directives, regulations and standards such as Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2002 (DSEAR) and the framework provided by IEC 60079 Series.
The agenda will also explore the competency of personnel, the importance of appropriate equipment selection and certification, and how to interpret equipment markings used in explosive atmospheres.
Attendees will gain an understanding of how to understand and navigate regulatory obligations whilst improving safety, and protecting people, assets, and operations when working in potentially explosive environments.
2
Continuing Professional Development
This event can contribute towards your Continuing Professional Development (CPD) hours as part of the IET's CPD monitoring scheme.
14 May 2026
5:31pm - 7:31pm
Organiser
- Scotland North Local Network
Registration information
Alan Montgomery
Head of Technical Standards at CompEx Certification Limited.
Alan is a seasoned electrical professional who leads the development and governance of technical standards, qualifications, and competency frameworks that support safe working practices across industries where explosion risks exist.
With a background in electrical contracting, training, and competency assurance, Alan has extensive experience supporting competency within high-risk industrial environments. Prior to joining CompEx, Alan was an instructor and assessor delivering electrical and hazardous area training and assessment, supporting engineers and technicians responsible for the installation, inspection, and maintenance of equipment in explosive atmospheres.
Alan works closely with industry stakeholders, training providers, and technical subject matter experts to ensure CompEx qualifications align with evolving international standards and regulatory frameworks. He regularly represents CompEx at industry events and conferences, promoting best practice and supporting organisations in building a competent workforce for hazardous area operations.
Speakers
Alan Montgomery
Head of Qualifications - Compex
Reasons to attend
Engineers, technicians, asset owners, safety professionals, and duty holders responsible for equipment selection, installation, inspection, or maintenance in hazardous areas.
Programme
17:30 Welcome & Refreshments
18:00 Presentation and Overview
18:45 Q&A session
19:15 Networking
19:30 Close