Fires and explosions represent a significant hazard for various industries, specifically oil and gas, chemical, and pharmaceutical companies. Even the slightest spark can ignite something combustible, causing an accident. Therefore, it is crucial for these enterprises to ensure their workplace is fire- and explosion-proof.

However, there remain several common misconceptions about explosion-proof methods, which is concerning. Any lapse or inadequate measure can lead to severe accidents in the workplace. As such, we have decided to share and debunk these common myths to help business owners safeguard their employees. 

Misconception #1: You do not need to maintain your explosion-proof enclosure.

Take a glance at your explosion-proof enclosure, and you could be forgiven for thinking it can withstand anything. After all, this equipment appears to offer foolproof protection in the most demanding applications, given its cast metal casing and numerous big bolts. Well, that is true, as it is designed to contain an explosion inside the enclosure, so it must be rugged.

However, this does not mean it is immune to damage or wear and tear. Like any equipment, explosion-proof enclosures can develop faults, including loose fittings, damaged seals, and degraded wiring, over time. As a result, the equipment’s ability to contain an explosion is compromised, making it a potential hazard. We recommend scheduling regular maintenance and inspection to ensure your enclosure remains in good working condition.

Misconception #2: A standard non-certified equipment linked to an intrinsically safe junction box is also intrinsically safe.

The purpose of an intrinsically safe junction box is to limit the electrical energy supplied to a non-certified field device to a level that is safe for use in a hazardous environment. However, this does not make the non-certified equipment intrinsically safe. 

For the equipment to be intrinsically safe, it must be designed and manufactured to meet the relevant safety standards and certified as such by a qualified testing and certification organisation. To err on the side of caution, we recommend ensuring that every piece of equipment used in hazardous areas is certified as intrinsically safe.

Misconception #3: Intrinsically safe equipment is expensive.

Well, it depends on what you are comparing intrinsically safe equipment with. In fact, installing intrinsically safe equipment can prove to be cost-effective, as you do not have to incur additional costs installing an explosion-proof conduit since the system is electrically protected at the source.

In an IS circuit, the current and voltage are limited to a point where any accident shortening the conductor would not trigger a spark with enough energy to ignite any hazardous substance in the environment. Of course, you might still want to safeguard the conductors to a degree to enhance your safety measures and eliminate any downtime.

Misconception #4: An intrinsically safe system is easy to install.

Intrinsically safe systems require deliberate planning, design, and installation to ensure worker safety in a hazardous work environment. Every piece of equipment involved in the system must be installed correctly and in compliance with the relevant safety standards.

Additionally, the installation of an intrinsically safe system requires careful consideration of the parameters of the equipment being used, as well as the physical characteristics of the installation environment. For example, there must be a separation distance of at least 50mm between intrinsically safe circuits and non-intrinsically safe ones. If this is not possible, both types of circuits must be separated by a conductive metallic plate connected to earth.

Learn More: How To Ensure Your Equipment Is Intrinsically Safe

We hope what we shared can help raise awareness of the importance of implementing effective explosion protection measures and getting them right. This way, you can ensure your workplace remains safe for your employees. If you have any lingering doubts, we recommend consulting our experts to ensure your equipment is safe for use.

Lastly, if you seek reliable explosion-proof enclosures or intrinsically safe junction boxes, you are already at the right place. Do not hesitate to contact us today if you require help selecting the correct explosion-proof equipment for your workplace.