What is a light for hazardous location?

A light for hazardous locations, also known as hazardous location lighting, is a type of lighting specifically designed to operate safely in environments where there are potentially explosive atmospheres due to the presence of flammable gases, vapors, dust, or fibers. These lights are constructed to prevent ignition of the surrounding hazardous substances. Here are some key characteristics and considerations for hazardous location lighting:

  1. Explosion-Proof Design: These lights are built to contain any sparks or heat generated within the fixture to prevent it from igniting the surrounding atmosphere. They often have robust enclosures made of materials like aluminum or steel.
  2. Ingress Protection: They typically have a high IP (Ingress Protection) rating to prevent the entry of dust and moisture, which could contribute to a hazardous situation.
  3. Certifications and Standards: Hazardous location lights must meet specific safety standards and certifications, such as ATEX, IECEx, UL844, and others, depending on the region and the specific type of hazard present.
  4. Types of Hazards:
    • Class I: Locations where flammable gases or vapors are present.
    • Class II: Locations where combustible dust is present.
    • Class III: Locations where ignitable fibers or flyings are present.
  5. Zones and Divisions:
    • Zones: Used primarily in European and international standards, such as Zone 0, 1, and 2 for gases, and Zone 20, 21, and 22 for dust.
    • Divisions: Used in North American standards, such as Division 1 (where hazards are present under normal operating conditions) and Division 2 (where hazards are present only under abnormal conditions).
  6. Materials and Construction: The materials used in hazardous location lights are chosen for their durability and resistance to corrosion, high temperatures, and chemical exposure.
  7. Types of Lighting: Includes various types of fixtures like floodlights, high bay lights, emergency lights, and portable lights, all designed for hazardous environments.
  8. Application Areas: Commonly used in industries such as oil and gas, chemical plants, mining, grain processing, wastewater treatment plants, and other areas where explosive atmospheres can occur.

Hazardous location lighting is crucial for maintaining safety and operational efficiency in environments with explosive hazards.

Where should hazardous location led light fixtures be placed?

Hazardous location LED light fixtures should be placed in areas where there is a potential risk of explosion or fire due to the presence of flammable gases, vapors, dust, or fibers. These areas are typically classified based on the type and concentration of hazardous materials present, as well as the frequency and duration of their presence. Here are some key considerations for placing hazardous location LED light fixtures:

  1. Identify Hazardous Areas:
    • Class I Areas: Locations where flammable gases or vapors are present in the air in sufficient quantities to produce explosive or ignitable mixtures. Common in petrochemical plants, refineries, and gas processing facilities.
    • Class II Areas: Locations where combustible dust is present. Typical in grain elevators, flour mills, and other facilities where dust particles can accumulate.
    • Class III Areas: Locations where ignitable fibers or flyings are present. Found in textile mills, woodworking plants, and other environments with fiber or flying hazards.
  2. Zone Classification:
    • Zone 0: Areas where explosive gas atmospheres are continuously present or present for long periods (Class I).
    • Zone 1: Areas where explosive gas atmospheres are likely to occur in normal operation (Class I).
    • Zone 2: Areas where explosive gas atmospheres are not likely to occur in normal operation and, if they do occur, will persist for a short period (Class I).
    • Zone 20: Areas where combustible dust clouds are present continuously or for long periods (Class II).
    • Zone 21: Areas where combustible dust clouds are likely to occur in normal operation (Class II).
    • Zone 22: Areas where combustible dust clouds are not likely to occur in normal operation and, if they do occur, will persist for a short period (Class II).
  3. Mounting Locations:
    • Ceilings: Common for general illumination, ensuring that the fixtures are securely mounted to withstand environmental conditions.
    • Walls: For focused or supplementary lighting, ensuring the fixtures are at safe distances from potential sources of hazardous materials.
    • Floodlights: For outdoor or large area illumination, ensuring they are directed away from potential sources of hazard.
  4. Environmental Considerations:
    • Temperature: Ensure the fixtures are rated for the temperature extremes of the location.
    • Ingress Protection (IP) Rating: Choose fixtures with appropriate IP ratings to protect against dust, moisture, and other environmental factors.
  5. Compliance with Standards:
    • Ensure that the fixtures comply with relevant safety standards and certifications, such as UL, ATEX, or IECEx, which are specific to hazardous locations.

By carefully assessing the specific hazards and environmental conditions of each location, and selecting appropriately rated and certified LED light fixtures, you can enhance safety and compliance in hazardous areas.