Understanding Hazardous Areas: Classification and Safety Measures

Hazardous areas, as per OSHA standards, are locations where the presence of explosive atmospheres necessitates special precautions to ensure the safety of workers. These areas are generally characterized by the potential for fire or explosion due to the presence of flammable gases, liquids, combustible dust, or ignitable fibers.

Classification of Hazardous Areas:

1. Identification of Flammable Materials: The first step involves identifying potentially combustible materials such as gases, liquids, and dust. Information on flashpoints, auto-ignition temperatures, and gas sub-groups can be obtained from Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) or AS/NZS/IEC 60079.20.1.

· Gas groups and temperature classes for hazardous zones are then determined based on this information.

2. Sources of Release Determination: Understanding the sources of release is crucial. Depending on normal operation or unusual events like equipment failure, sources are categorized into three grades with associated hazardous area zones:

a) Continuous release, resulting in Zone 0 or Zone 20 for gas/vapor or Zone 30 for dust atmospheres.

b) Periodic release during normal operation, leading to Zone 1 or Zone 21 for gases, vapors, or dust.

c) Release in an abnormal or failing state, typically resulting in Zone 2 or Zone 22 for gases, vapors, or dust.

3. Intensity and Shape Considerations: Several factors influence the size and shape of a hazardous area zone:

a) Release rate influenced by the geometry, velocity, and concentration of the release source.

b) Ventilation impacting the persistence and concentration of the release.

c) Material’s lower explosive limit (LEL).

d) Density of the material, particularly if it’s heavier or lighter than air, affecting the zone’s shape.

Courses for Upskilling in Hazardous Areas:

1. UEE42620 Certificate IV in Hazardous Areas Electrical: This course provides comprehensive training in selecting, installing, testing, maintaining, and inspecting Ex equipment, ensuring compliance with AS/NZS 60079.14 and AS/NZS 60079.17.

2. EEHA Refresher Course: A two-day program, including an optional practical assessment, designed for electrical technicians and engineers with prior training in hazardous electrical equipment installation, maintenance, and design. The course covers the revision of Ex Protection Techniques and introduces new technology.

For further details, feel free to connect with us.

Contact Us:

Website: www.hazardousareacoursesinperth.com.au

info@hazardousareacoursesinperth.com.au