Safety is the utmost priority for those working in hazardous environments, such as areas containing combustible materials or flammable vapours, liquids, or gases. Businesses operating in such conditions are mandated by law to install explosion-proof light fittings to safeguard workers. 

However, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to hazardous lighting. There are various types of dangerous environments that help categorise what class and division an explosion-proof light is certified for. So how can businesses ensure they choose the appropriate lighting? Read on to learn more.

Learn More: Everything You Need to Know About Explosion-Proof Lighting

Explosion-proof lighting class and division explained

At Supermec, we often receive a particular query, “Which explosion-proof light fitting is suitable for us?”. The answer to this question is: it depends on the hazardous area classification of the environment where the equipment is deployed and the client’s requirements. 

Here is a broad categorisation of explosion-proof lighting based on the European and IECEX classifications:

• Zone 0 (gases) – An environment where an explosive mixture of gases is present for long periods or is continuously present.
• Zone 1 (gases) – An environment where an explosive mixture of gases is likely to accumulate during normal operations.
• Zone 2 (gases) – An environment where an explosive mixture of gases is not likely to accumulate under normal circumstances. If it does, it will only be for a short amount of time.
• Zone 20 (dust) – An environment where an explosive mixture of dust is continuously present or present for long periods.
• Zone 21 (dust) – An environment where an explosive mixture of dust is likely to accumulate during normal operations. 
• Zone 22 (dust) – An environment where an explosive mixture of dust is not likely to accumulate under normal circumstances. If it does, it will only happen for a short period. 

Zone 0 is deemed the most dangerous or critical, followed by Zone 1 and then Zone 2. As such, Zone 0 has higher specification requirements than Zones 1 and 2, and Zone 1 has more stringent requirements than Zone 2. For example, you can utilise Zone 1 explosion-proof lighting for both Zone 1 and 2 but not Zone 0.

Types of explosion-proof lighting 

Generally, explosion-proof lighting is categorised into two types – temporary lighting and fixed lighting. 

1. Explosion-proof temporary lighting

 Explosion-proof temporary lighting is often referred to as portable explosion-proof light, as such equipment can be easily transported from one place to another. As such, they are more versatile and can be tailored to the unique needs of various industries, including coal mines, land-based or offshore rigs, and chemical plants, among others. Examples include our explosion-proof LED flood lights and explosion-proof LED high bay lighting.

2. Explosion-proof fixed lighting

As the name implies, explosion-proof fixed lighting is mounted to a set location and cannot be moved from one place to another. Such lighting fixtures are commonly used to illuminate Zone 1 and 2 of a particular facility. These explosion-proof light fittings are usually available in the form of fluorescent light fixtures or designed to contain halide light elements.

Supermec offers a comprehensive selection of explosion-proof and flameproof light fixtures tailored to various business needs. If you are unsure of which light fixtures best suit the confined spaces of your hazardous work environment, do not hesitate to contact our team for assistance. Our staff will be delighted to help you select the ideal light fittings to enhance your workplace safety.