Houghton International achieves IECEx certification fuelling growth in hazardous environments

Following an independent audit, via SGS, we have achieved IECEx service facility certification which further demonstrates our capability to safely repair and overhaul equipment used in explosive atmospheres.

Michael Mitten, CEO of Houghton International, commented: “IECEx Service Facility Certification provides plant owners across the world with confidence in our capabilities to repair and overhaul their equipment to be used in an explosive atmosphere.

“Our customers trust us with their equipment and ultimately the welfare of their staff working in hazardous environments and its vital that we can demonstrate that we have the processes and procedures in place to ensure a safe and high-quality repair.

“We have been repairing motors and rotating equipment for over 30 years, combining highly trained staff with comprehensive workshop facilities and robust processes to carry out work on a range of Ex equipment. This additional certification reinforces the quality of our service and supports our strategic expansion into more specialised sectors including oil and gas platforms, chemical processing plants and other hazardous environments.”

An IECEx Certificate of Conformity for a service facility provider attests that the facility has been independently assessed and found to have appropriate equipment and competent staff, and to operate procedures that demonstrate that the repair, overhaul or modification work conducted complies with IECEx requirements, including IEC 60079-19. It also attests that a service facility has been audited to verify that it meets the IECEx Operational Document OD 314-5 requirements.

The certification relates to repairs and overhaul of equipment used in explosive atmospheres, typically areas where flammable liquids, vapours, gases or combustible dusts are likely to occur in quantities sufficient to cause a fire or explosion.

The objective of the IECEx System is to facilitate international trade in equipment and services for use in explosive atmospheres, while maintaining the required level of safety, making it easier for customers to select the appropriate repairer for their needs.

Operating globally, Houghton International is an electro mechanical repair shop that specialises in the repair, maintenance and life extension of motors, generators and pumps.

Alongside in house coil manufacture facilities and a large machine repair shop with up to 40 tonne craneage, its site services team undertake work in situ on customers premises, on vessels and oil rigs around the world to reduce downtime and improve performance of all rotating machines.

Founded in 1984, Houghton International has expanded over the last 30 years into a multi-million pound, multinational business. The company has grown from originally serving one customer to now working with over 200 customers globally.

For more information on Houghton International and the range of services it offers please visit: www.houghton-international.com.