How can I determine if a Hazardous Area Classification drawing is suitable for use?
A hazardous area classification drawing is the basis for selecting electrical and instrumentation equipment and the wiring methods as defined by Section 18 of Canadian Electrical Code. As such, there is important information that must be incorporated into the hazardous area classification design documentation before such decisions can be made. The most basic information must include:
Nature of the Hazard – Flammable fluids or Combustible Dusts: This is defined by the “Class” definition in Division classified facilities and Zone designation in Zone classified facilities.
Probability and the length of time the hazard will exists: This is defined by the Zone or Division classification defined for an area.
Group classification: This is important for the selection of explosionproof, flameproof and intrinsically safe equipment
Auto-ignition temperature: This is important to ensure that the surface operating temperature of electrical equipment does not exceed the auto-ignition of the flammable materials handled within the classified area. The maximum surface operating temperature of equipment as defined by the products temperature code.
In addition, the Canadian Electrical Code requires hazardous area classification documentation to be signed off by a Qualified Professional who is experienced in hazardous area classification design. This is important as the documentation is relied upon by third parties to make safety related decisions with respect to equipment selection, installation, and plant operations.
If the hazardous area classification documentation omits this information or is not signed off by a qualified professional, the hazardous area classification documentation is incomplete and should not be used. For more information on the basic requirements for a hazardous area classification design, refer to Appendix L of the Canadian Electrical Code.
Want to learn more about Hazardous Locations? Our gratis (free) HazLoc Supermini Course introduces both Zone and Division classified hazardous locations. We cover how to assess if a product is “approved” and how to read and interpret hazardous location markings on Division and IEC Zone marked products. For more info go to www.engworks.ca
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3 年Allen where does it say in the code that an area classification MUST be done I want to be able to point to what obligates them to have this done. I am being asked to do electrical design in plants that don't have area class drawings but I feel have either gas, dust or fiber issues in certain areas. thanks for the input
Consultor em sistemas industriais, instala??es em áreas classificadas e seguran?a em eletricidade.
4 年Although the requirements of some information and also that a qualified professional had sign it, it is not easy to say if a HACD is suitable. As the article https://bit.ly/2RjrKPk?shows, the most common problem found in such documents is the "copy-and-paste", which can compromise the installation safety.
HAZOP & WHAT-IF Chairman / PSM Implementation & Improvement / Fire Protection Design
4 年Hi Allan, I had gone trough your HazLoc mini course and happy to say that the course content is good and example photos from real time field electrical components is appreciated.