Zum Hauptinhalt springen

WorkSite Resources

Explosion-Proof Lighting Classes, Divisions and Groups

A class identifies the type of hazard; a division describes classification conditions; a group distinguishes substances within the system. None of those elements can be dropped when comparing a light with a site's requirements.

Class identifies the material hazard

Class I concerns flammable gases and vapors. Class II concerns combustible dusts. Class III concerns ignitable fibers and flyings. A product can carry more than one approval, but one class does not automatically cover another.

Division describes the classified conditions

Division 1 and Division 2 have definitions for their respective classes. Use the documented site classification rather than treating a room as Division 2 simply because it is ventilated or outdoors. Division numbers also should not be treated as direct replacements for Zone numbers.

Group and temperature complete the check

Compare the applicable gas or dust group with the exact marking. Dust type matters: grain, conductive metal dust and other combustible materials cannot be treated as one interchangeable hazard. The temperature marking and rated ambient conditions must also suit the application.

Check the complete assembly

A suitable lamp head does not establish the approval of an arbitrary bulb, cord, plug or transformer added to it. Match the full model code and configuration to its listing, certificate and instructions.

When a marking or exact configuration is unknown, resolve it before use in the classified area. Tragbare Beleuchtung includes different formats for carrying, supported task work and longer runs.

References: OSHA 1910.307 — Hazardous (classified) locations · UL Solutions — North American hazardous-area certification