ABSTRACT
In order to protect installations from a potential explosion, a method of analyzing and classifying a potentially hazardous area is required. The purpose of this is to ensure the correct selection and installation of equipment to ultimately prevent an explosion and to maintain safety to life. Hazardous area classification involves various European and American codes and standards, which are fully discussed in this chapter. Several factors impact this classification, including the type of flammable substance, ignition temperature, and likelihood of the hazard in the area. This chapter describes in detail two systems for classifying hazardous areas: the Class/Division system and the Zone system. Class/Division is primarily used in the United States and Canada, while Zone is generally used in the rest of the world. Selecting electrical equipment and devices for hazardous areas is determined by the type of explosion protection technique being used, such as flameproof, explosion proof, pressurized safety, increased safety, and so forth.
