![]() A hazardous area can be defined as any location where there is risk of an explosion. But every hazardous area is different and each has specific requirements depending on the nature of the atmosphere and the elements that are present. Fundamentally, for an explosion to take place, flammable or explosive gases, vapours, mists or dusts will be present. Then, the level of risk of an explosion is based on the frequency and duration of the occurrence of an explosive atmosphere. This level of risk is represented by classifying the hazardous area as Zone 0, Zone 1 or Zone 2 (for gas, vapour and mist atmospheres) or Zone 21 or Zone 22 for dust atmospheres. we will look at what defines Zone 0, Zone 1 and Zone 2 hazardous area classifications and the considerations for specifying lighting into each area. But first, we must consider what is likely to cause an explosion in the first place. There are three necessary components for an explosion to occur; 1. Flammable Substance – this needs to be present in a relatively high quantity to produce an explosive mixture (e.g. gas, vapours, mists and dusts). 2. Oxygen – oxygen is required in high quantities and in combination with the flammable substance to produce an explosive atmosphere. 3. Ignition Source – a spark or high heat must also be present. Where there is potential for an explosive atmosphere, special precautions are needed to prevent fires and explosions. Electronic equipment, including lighting, needs to be purpose designed for use in hazardous areas to prevent a spark occurring and igniting any flammable substances. Although every application is different, for the ease of monitoring and specification each hazardous area is classified as a particular level or “zone”. As a result, all hazardous area equipment must be designed with hazardous area zone classifications in mind, as the “zone” governs the level of protection and precaution required. It is essential to know which zone you are working in, so that you can specify the most appropriate equipment. For gases, vapours and mists the zone classifications are recognised as Zone 0, Zone 1 and Zone 2 areas. Let’s take a look at what defines each zone…
Comments are closed.
|
Archives
February 2025
Categories
All
|