A GUIDE TO EUROPEAN (EEC) CERTIFICATION FOR ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT IN HAZARDOUS AREAS

INTRODUCTION Hazardous areas are those in which there exists a risk of explosion because flammable atmospheres are likely to be present. These conditions can be man-made as in Petrochemical plants or Refineries, or occur naturally, as in coal mining. It is therefore necessary to insure that all electrical equipment and instrumentation installed in a hazardous area cannot form a spark, or hot surface, which would ignite the flammable atmospheres. Before electrical equipment or instrumentation can be used in a hazardous area, it must b e tested and approved by a recognized testing authority. Should the equipment pass this examination, then a Certificate of Conformity is issued which specifies the limits of use of the apparatus. ZONES Hazardous areas are classified into "Zones" according to the degree of risk. Zone 0 - where an explosive atmosphere is continuously present for long periods. Zone 1 - where an explosive atmosphere is likely to occur in normal operation. Zone 2 - where an explosive atmosphere is not likely to occur in normal operation and if it occurs it is only present for a short period. Zone 10 - where explosive dusts are present constantly or for long periods. Zone 11 - where explosive dusts are present occasionally.

GASES Gases are grouped together according to their degree of hazard. This is based on the amount of energy required to light the gas/air mixture. Gas Group Representative Gas I (mining) Methane IIA Propane (Surface)