Hazardous Area Classification

When it comes to hazardous area classification, E-x Solutions has the most up to date information on how site classification should be conducted and appropriately documented.

Hazardous area classification is a method of determining the likelihood with which an explosive atmosphere may occur in a given location. This then helps to determine the appropriate requirements for the selection and installation of equipment to be used in that location.

When classifying explosive gas atmospheres, E-x Solutions are able to provide assistance in applying the principles of AS/NZS 60079.10.1 for site classification to ensure the appropriate apparatus is selected. This standard includes the Australian examples previously given in the AS/NZS 2430.3 series and also accepts the use of other industry standards, such as API RP505 and IP15.

For areas where the hazard is an explosive dust atmosphere, E-x Solutions compliance engineers are able to provide the best available advice on the application of the current AS/NZS 60079.10.2 classification requirements.

Hazardous area classification is required for a range of potentially hazardous areas such as aircraft hangars, gasoline stations, paint-finishing locations or flour mills.

In the IEC standards hazardous areas are classified into zones based upon the frequency and duration of an explosive atmosphere. For liquids, gases and vapours: Zone 0, Zone 1 and Zone 2. For dusts: Zone 20, Zone 21 and Zone 22.

Zone 0/20: An area in which an explosive atmosphere is present continuously or for long periods or frequently.

Zone 1/21: An area in which an explosive atmosphere is likely to occur in normal operation occasionally.

Zone 2/22: an area in which an explosive gas atmosphere is not likely to occur in normal operation but, if it does occur, will exist for a short period only.

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