Hazardous Area Classification and Ex Equipment

Overview

Wherever flammable gases, vapours or dusts can be present, electrical and mechanical equipment can become an ignition source. Hazardous area classification identifies where those atmospheres may occur, and the selection, installation and maintenance of explosion-protected equipment ensures that ignition is prevented. Errors in either step have caused serious explosions. This course explains both. Participants learn the principles of area classification under IEC 60079-10, API RP 505 and related codes, including release sources, grades of release, ventilation and zone extent. They then study the protection concepts for Ex equipment, such as flameproof, increased safety, intrinsic safety, pressurisation and non-sparking, along with equipment marking, certification schemes and temperature classes. The final part covers installation rules, inspection to IEC 60079-17, maintenance, repair and the management of Ex equipment records.

Objectives

• Explain the principles of explosive atmospheres and ignition
• Classify hazardous areas using IEC 60079-10 and API RP 505
• Determine zone types and extents from release sources and ventilation
• Explain Ex protection concepts and their applications
• Interpret equipment marking, certification and temperature classes
• Apply installation requirements for Ex equipment and cabling
• Plan inspection, maintenance and repair of Ex equipment
• Maintain hazardous area documentation and registers

Who should attend

Training methodology

Classification principles are applied to real plant layouts, with participants identifying release sources, assessing ventilation and drawing zone boundaries. Ex equipment is examined through photographs, certificates and, where available, sample equipment to recognise markings and common installation faults. Inspection checklists are completed for sample installations, and incident investigations show the consequences of incorrect equipment. The course combines international IEC practice with North American class and division concepts, and ends with an assessment.

Programme outline

Dates and fees

Fees are in GBP. per delegate.

Certificate

Frequently asked questions