Hazardous Area Classification

Hazardous area classification is a rigorous method of determining where an explosive environment may be present. The codes and standards used in this process provide guidance for selecting, building, and installing electrical equipment in that area.

Originally, Hazardous Classified Locations were established to provide a systematic way that process industries would determine where they could have flammable atmospheres present and how likely (how often) those flammable atmospheres were to be found there.  This would then be used for the selection of the correct/safe type of electrical equipment. It all began with consideration of the vapors of flammable liquids but was eventually broadened to include flammable and combustible dusts. Afterall, powders can get inside electrical equipment too – and can build-up on warm/hot equipment surfaces and wind up being a fire and explosion hazard.

This formalized area classification has allowed the process industries to make the correct location-dependent choice of electrical equipment and to how to install it – and so prevent electrical ignition of gases, vapor, dust, and fiber laden flammable atmospheres

Our engineers ensure that all required codes and standards are complied with when engineering the plant.