An explosion means the conversion of potential energy into expansion and/or compression work at a velocity of approximately 1 – 1000 m/sec. An explosion which spreads with a shock wave (1 – 10 km/sec.) is defined as a detonation. The required measures for protecting staff against explosive atmospheres are described in the Regulation relating to Explosive Atmospheres (Verordnung explosionsfähige Atmosphären, VEXAT).
