Ashland Cleanroom

The facility’s extensive solvent-based processes and requirement for ATEX-compliant environments created significant challenges around safety classification, ventilation design, and regulatory compliance. ORS ensured all process areas were correctly zoned for explosive atmospheres, with specialist equipment selection and electrical systems fully aligned to ATEX standards, supported by close coordination with users to understand operational and solvent risks.

A controlled ventilation strategy was developed to manage vapour extraction, air change rates, and pressure differentials, ensuring safe dispersion without compromising operational efficiency. In parallel, electrical upgrades were delivered, including new LV distribution boards, cleanroom power and lighting layouts, and integration with the existing live infrastructure within a constrained operational setting.

ORS adopted a phased delivery approach, embedding ATEX compliance from design stage and sequencing works within tight shutdown windows. This proactive strategy ensured safe delivery, programme certainty, and full compliance within a highly constrained environment throughout.