Afstandsafstand

Afstandsafstand is a Dutch term describing the minimum distance that must be kept between a potential hazard and people, or between a hazard source and objects of interest, to prevent harm. It is used in risk management, safety regulations, and daily safety practice. The concept is often translated as standoff distance in English. The exact value is not fixed; it depends on the hazard, the environment, and regulatory context, and is usually derived from a risk assessment or safety standard.

In traffic, the term is often used to describe following distance between vehicles. A sufficient afstandsafstand allows drivers to react and brake safely, and it depends on speed and road conditions. Dutch guidelines commonly refer to the two-second rule as a practical measure of safety distance, with longer distances in wet or icy conditions and for heavy vehicles.

In industrial or hazard contexts, afstandsafstand refers to distances known as exclusion or standoff zones. In blasting or demolition, the standoff distance is the minimum radius around the blast site to keep bystanders at a safe distance. In handling hazardous materials, chemical or radiological sources, standoff distances protect workers and the public from thermal, blast, toxic, or radiological effects. These distances are specified by safety regulations and risk assessments and may involve barriers, monitoring, and access control.

In planning and enforcement, afstandsafstand is established through risk assessments, engineering controls, signage, and training. It is monitored by safety officers, inspectors, and emergency responders. Violations may lead to fines or shutdowns.

See also: standoff distance, veiligheidsafstand, following distance.