Electrical Area Classification

ELECTRICAL AREA
CLASSIFICATION
1.
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Scope
This document provides guidance for the classification of hazardous, onshore
process plant areas where there is a risk for the ignition of a flammable fuel/air
mixture at atmospheric conditions. Electrical area classification allows for the
proper selection and installation of equipment best suited for such environments.
The guidelines and recommendations provided herein are based on current
knowledge of industry practice and should be considered a starting point for
further development during the Front-End Engineering Development (FEED)
phase. During FEED, electrical area classification should accommodate the
results of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) study, process hazard
reviews, vapor dispersion studies, thermal radiation exclusion zones and noise
pollution studies, as well as the latest site data.
The following conditions are excluded from the scope of this Guide:
2.
Catastrophic failures1
Areas where the presence of flammable mist may give rise to an
unpredictable risk and which would require special consideration2.
Purpose
The intent of this document is to set out the engineering criteria against which
the risk of ignition of hazardous quantities and concentrations of flammable gas
or vapor can be assessed. It is also the intent, to provide guidance on the design
and control parameters that can be used as to reduce this risk.
3.
General
The electrical area classification procedure should comply with local codes and
standards at the country in which the electrical equipment is to be installed. In
case such codes and standards do not exist, conformance with the American
Petroleum Institute (API) Recommended Practice (RP) 500, Recommended
Catastrophic failure, in the context of this Guide, refers to events such as the rupture of a process vessel or
the full bore failure of a pipeline. The intent is to exclude events that have an extremely low probability of
occurrence.
2 Mists may form or be present at the same time as flammable vapors. This may affect the way flammable
material disperses and thus, the extent of any hazardous areas. The strict application of area classification for
gases and vapors may not be appropriate because the flammability characteristics of mists are not always
predictable. While it can be difficult to decide upon the type and extent of classified areas, the criteria
applicable to gases and vapors will, in most cases, give a safe result. However, special consideration should
always be given to the ignition of flammable mists.
1
PROPRIETARY INFORMATION For Auth oriz e d Com pany Us e O nly
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Practice for Classification of Locations for Electrical Installations at Petroleum

Facilities should be considered. The use of alternative codes, e.g., British
Standards, is acceptable if they are the general practice used by local contractors.
Unusual conditions, or the presence of hazardous materials other than those
considered in API RP 500, may require modification of the practices contained
therein. The following National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Codes may
be used as alternate source of information for electrical area classification:
4.
NFPA 30, Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code.

NFPA 70, National Electric Code.
NFPA 497M, Classification of Gases, Vapors and Dusts for Electrical
Equipment in Hazardous (Classified) Locations.
Safety Principles
Facilities, in which flammable materials are handled or stored, should be
designed, operated and maintained so that the releases of flammable material,
and subsequent extent of classified areas, are kept to a minimum with regards to
frequency, duration and quantity.
In situations where there may be a flammable atmosphere, the following steps
shall be taken:
Eliminate the likelihood of a flammable atmosphere occurring around

the source of ignition.
Eliminate the source of ignition.
Where this is not possible, protective measures, process equipment, systems and
procedures should be selected and prepared so the likelihood of the coincidence
of both factors is so remote as to be acceptable. Such measures may be used
singly if they are recognized as being highly reliable, or in combination to achieve
an equivalent level of safety.
5.
Area Classification
This Guide provides a universally acceptable set of rules for the selection of
equipment to be located in areas where flammable atmospheres may occur. The
main objective of these rules is to minimize the potential for electrically induced
ignition in such circumstances.
Area classification in this document is based on the guidelines provided by the
API RP 500. However, as of 1996, the National Electric Code (NEC) has given
an alternative approach based on the work done by the International
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Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) and Comite Europeen de Normalisation

Electrotechnique (CENELEC). Either the traditional or the alternate method
must be selected for a given hazardous (classified) location.
The alternate approach has been in use for many years in most European
countries and has been adopted as a standard in Belgium, France, Germany and
the United Kingdom.
API RP 500 defines electrical equipment suitable for use in Class I, Division 1
and 2 locations. NEC, article 505 defines equipment suitable for use in Class I,
Zone 0, 1 and 2 locations. Mixing classification methods in a single classified area
is not permitted. A comparison of APIs Division and NECs Zone classification
systems is shown in Table 5-1 below.
Table 5-1 Comparison of NEC Division and Zone Classification Systems
Historical Approach
Class I, Division 1 where ignitable
concentrations of flammable gases (vapors) can
exist: (a) normally during operating conditions; (b)
frequently because of repair, maintenance or
leakage; or (c) accidentally where the possibility
exists of a simultaneous release of ignitable
concentrations of gas (vapor) and failure of
electrical equipment.
The Code states where ignitable concentrations of
flammable gases (vapors) can exist continually or
for long periods, electrical equipment should be
avoided altogether, or, intrinsically safe systems
should be used.
Class I, Division 2 where (a) areas containing
volatile flammable liquids or gases, where these
materials are normally confined to closed
containers and systems from which the materials
can escape only upon the rupture or breakdown of
containment or upon abnormal operation of
equipment or process; (b) ignitable concentrations
of gases (vapors) are normally prevented by
positive mechanical ventilation, but which might
become hazardous through failure or abnormal
operation of ventilation equipment; or (c) adjacent
to Class I, Division 1 location from which ignitable
concentrations of gases (vapors) might occasionally
be communicated.
Alternate Approach
Class I, Zone 0 where ignitable concentrations
of flammable gases (vapors) can exist: (a)
continually or (b) for long periods.
Class I, Zone 1 where ignitable concentrations
of flammable gases (vapors) can exist: (a) normally
during operating periods; (b) frequently because of
repair, maintenance or leakage; (c) accidentally
where the possibility exists of a simultaneous
release of gas (vapor) and failure of electrical
equipment so as to cause ignition; or (d) because
the area is adjacent to a Zone 0 area, from which
gas (vapor) can be communicated.
Class I, Zone 2 where (a) ignitable
concentrations of flammable gases (vapors) are not
likely to occur during normal operations, and if
they do occur, they will exist for only a short period
of time; (b) areas in which flammable liquids or
gases are normally confined to closed containers
and systems from which the materials can escape
only upon the rupture or breakdown or upon
abnormal operation of equipment or process; (c)
ignitable concentrations of gases (vapors) are
normally prevented by positive mechanical
ventilation, but which might become hazardous
through failure or abnormal operation of
ventilation equipment; or (d) adjacent to Class I,
Division 1 location from which ignitable
concentrations of gases (vapors) might occasionally
be communicated.
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In lieu of Group A, B, C, and D atmospheres, the alternate system establishes

Groups I, IIA, IIB and IIC atmospheres. A Group IIA is equivalent to a Group
D atmosphere. Group IIB is equivalent to a Group C. Group IIC is equivalent to
Groups A and B combined. These comparisons are shown in Table 5-2.
Table 5-1 Comparison of Historic and Alternate NEC Class I Grouping Systems
Class I Content (Liquid, Gas or Vapor)
5.1
Historical Approach
Alternate Approach
Atmospheres containing acetylene
Group A
Group IIC
Atmospheres containing hydrogen, fuel and combustible

process gases containing more than 30% hydrogen by
volume, or gases or vapors or equivalent hazard such as
butadiene, ethylene oxide, propylene oxide and acrolein.
Group B
Atmospheres containing ethyl ether, ethylene, or gases or

vapors of equivalent hazard
Group C
Group IIB
Atmospheres containing acetone, ammonia, benzene,

butane, cyclopropane, ethanol, gasoline, hexane,
methanol, methane, natural gas, naphtha, propane, or
gases or vapors of equivalent hazard
Group D
Group IIA
Objectives
Proper analysis, design and suitable operating procedures should lead to a
minimal presence and/or extent of Class I, Division 1 (Zone 0 and/or Zone 1)
locations. Facilities and installations should be mainly non-classified or Class I,
Division 2 (Zone 2) locations.
Where release of flammable material is unavoidable, process equipment items
should be limited to those that give secondary grade type releases. If this is not
possible and continuous or primary sources of release are unavoidable, the
releases should be of very limited quantity and rate.
When performing electrical area classification, these principles should receive the
utmost consideration. Where necessary, the design, operation and location of
process equipment should ensure that, even when it is operating abnormally, the
amount of flammable material released into the atmosphere is minimized and
therefore, reducing the extent of the classified area.
5.2
Procedure
Since it is extremely difficult by simple examination to determine which part of a
facility can be equated to the two classified area definitions (Class I, Division 1
and 2); a more detailed approach is therefore necessary. Such an approach
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involves the analysis of the basic possibility of the occurrence of an explosive

atmosphere.
The first step is to assess the likelihood of this, in accordance with Class I,
Division 1 or 2 definitions. Once the likely frequency and duration of a release
(and hence the grade of release), the release rate, concentration, velocity,
ventilation and other factors which affect the type and/or extent of the classified
area have been determined, there is then a firm basis on which to determine the
likely presence of an explosive atmosphere in the surrounding areas. This
approach therefore requires detailed consideration to be given to each of the
process equipment which contains a flammable material, and which could be a
source of release.
Once the facility has been classified and any necessary records made, it is of
paramount importance that no modification to equipment or operating
procedures is made without discussion with those individuals responsible for the
area classification. Unauthorized action may invalidate the area classification. It is
also necessary that all equipment affecting area classification and which has been
subject to maintenance is carefully checked during and after re-assembly to
ensure that the integrity of the original design, as it affects safety, has been
maintained before it is returned to service.
Area classification should be performed by individuals who have knowledge of
the properties of flammable materials, the process and the equipment, in
consultation as appropriate, with safety, electrical and other engineering
discipline personnel.
Figure A.1 on Appendix A and the following paragraphs give guidance on the
procedure for the classification of areas in which it may exist an explosive
atmosphere. It also gives guidance on the extent of Class I, Division 1 and Class
I, Division 2 areas.
5.2.1
Sources of Release
The basic element for establishing area classification is the identification of the
source of release and the determination of the grade of release.
Since an explosive atmosphere can only exist if a mixture of flammable gas or
vapor and air is present, it is necessary to decide if any of the flammable
materials can exist in the area of concern. Therefore, it is necessary to identify
where a flammable atmosphere can exist inside a process plant, or where a
release of flammable materials can create a flammable atmosphere outside a
process plant.
Each item of process equipment should be considered as a potential source of
release of flammable material. If the item cannot contain flammable material, it is
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obvious that it cannot give rise to a hazardous area around it. The same will
apply if the item contains a flammable material but cannot release into the
atmosphere (e.g., an all welded pipeline).
If it is established that the item may release flammable material into the
atmosphere, it is necessary to determine the grade of release by establishing the
likely frequency and duration of the release. It should be recognized that the
opening of parts of an enclosed system (e.g., filter changing) should be
considered as a source of release. By means of this procedure, each release
should be categorized as an either continuous, primary or secondary
release type. Appendix B lists a number of sources of release examples.
Once the grade of release has been established, it is necessary to determine the
release rate and other factors that may influence the type and extent of the
classified area.
5.2.2
Type of Classified Area

The likelihood of the presence of an explosive atmosphere and hence, the type
of classified area depends mainly on the grade of release and the ventilation3.
5.2.3
Extent of the Classified Area

Typical and specific extent of classified areas is given in API RP 500. However,
the extent of a classified area is mainly affected by the following parameters,
some of which are inherent to the properties of the flammable material; others
are specific to the process. For simplicity, the effect of each parameter listed
below assumes that the other parameters remain unchanged.
5.2.3.1
Release rate of gas or vapor

The greater the release rate, the larger the extent of the classified area. The
release rate depends itself on other parameters, namely:
Geometry of the source of release

Release velocity
Concentration
Volatility of the flammable liquid
Liquid temperature
A continuous or primary grade release normally leads to a Class I, Division 1 classification, and a secondary
grade to a Class I, Division 2 classification.
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5.2.3.2
Lower Flammability Limit (LFL)

For a given release volume, the lower LFL the larger the extent of the classified
areas.
5.2.3.3
Ventilation
With increased ventilation, the extent of the classified area will be reduced.
Obstacles, which hinder ventilation, may increase the extent of the classified area.
Conversely, some obstacles like dikes, walls or ceilings, may limit the extent.
5.2.3.4
Relative density of the gas or vapor

The horizontal extent of the classified area at ground level will increase with
increasing relative density and, the vertical extent above the source will increase
with decreasing relative density4.
5.2.3.5
Other parameters
Climatic conditions
Topography
5.2.4
Examples
Typical examples on how the above mentioned parameters affect the vapor or
gas release rate and hence, the extent of the classified area are given in Appendix
C.
5.2.5
Final Comments
Consideration should always be given to the possibility that a gas which is

heavier than air may flow into areas below ground level (e.g., pits or
depressions). Conversely, a gas that is lighter than air may be retained at
high level (e.g., in a roof space).
Where the source of release is situated outside an area or in an adjoining
area, the penetration of a significant quantity of flammable gas or vapor
into the area can be prevented by suitable means such as:
Physical barriers
If the gas or vapor is significantly lighter than air, it will tend to move upwards. If significantly heavier than
air, it will tend to accumulate at ground level. For practical purposes, a gas or vapor which has a relative density
below 0.8 is regarded as lighter than air. If the relative density is 1.2, it is regarded as heavier than air. Between
these two values, both the possibilities should be considered.
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Maintaining a static overpressure in the area relative to the

adjacent hazardous areas thus, preventing the ingress of the
hazardous atmosphere.
Purging the area with a significant flow of air thus, ensuring that
air escapes from all openings where the hazardous gas or vapor
may enter.
5.3
Acceptable Classification Alternatives

The following methods are acceptable alternatives to modify the extent or
change the classification of a particular area:
Relocation of Process Equipment

Consider relocating the proposed process equipment so that the area
where electrical equipment is located can remain non-classified. Consider
the use of walls or barricades.
Relocation of Electrical Equipment

Consider relocating the proposed electrical equipment outside the
classified area or relocating the electrical equipment from a Division 1 to
a Division 2 area. Consider the use of walls or barricades.
Purging of the Enclosure/Room/Building

Consider purging the atmosphere of the electrical enclosure, room or
building to change the area classification.
There are three types of purging:
Type X purging reduces the classification within an enclosure,
room or building from Division 1 to non-classified.
Type Y purging reduces the classification within an enclosure,
room or building from Division 1 to Division 2.
Type Z purging reduces the classification within an enclosure,
room or building from Division 2 to non-classified.
The requirements for purging are stringent and may require deenergizing. When alarms and/or shutdowns are required for a purged
system, provision for sufficient purge pressure capacity and supply
pressure to eliminate nuisance alarms should be made.
Pressurizing of the Enclosure/Room/Building

Consider pressurizing the enclosure, room or building to reduce both
Divisions 1 and 2 to a non-classified location.
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Intrinsically Safe Equipment and Wiring

Intrinsically safe circuits should be considered for Class I, Divisions 1
and 2 locations. Intrinsically safe equipment for process control
instrumentation should also be considered. These electrical systems lend
themselves to the low energy requirements for this type of circuits.
Intrinsically safe equipment and its associated wiring must be installed so
that they are positively separated from the intrinsically safe circuits.
Non-Incendive Equipment
The use of non-incendive equipment should be considered for
installations in Class I, Division 2 locations.
There are four basic types of non-incendive systems:
Non-incendive circuits wiring that, under normal conditions,
cannot release sufficient energy to ignite a specific, ignitable,
atmospheric mixture by opening, shorting or grounding. In
addition, they will not permit ignition by thermal effect.
Non-incendive contacts current interrupting contacts in
circuits that, under normal conditions, do not release sufficient
energy to ignite a specific, ignitable, atmospheric mixture by
opening, shorting or grounding.
Non-incendive components components having contacts for
making and breaking a non-incendive circuit, and that are housed
within an enclosure constructed so that the contacts are not
capable of causing ignition.
Oil-Immersed Contacts
For Class I, Division 2 locations, consider the use of ignition-capable
contacts immersed in oil.
Hermetically Sealed Contacts

For Class I, Division 2 locations, consider the use of contacts enclosed in
hermetically sealed chambers.
Suitable Enclosures
For Class I, Divisions 1 and 2, consider the use of suitable enclosures to
meet the area classification requirements as necessary.
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Ventilation
The source of air used for ventilation should be from an area classified no higher
than the desired classification. If practical, the source of air should be from a
non-classified area. In determining adequate ventilation, the gas/vapor
concentration can be considered homogeneous although it is recognized that
there may be small pockets of higher concentration near sources of release.
5.4.1
Types of Ventilation
Ventilation can be accomplished by the movement of air due to the wind and/or
by temperature gradients or by artificial means. So two main types of ventilation
are recognized:
5.4.2
Natural
Artificial
Degree of Ventilation
The degree or amount of ventilation, regardless of the type of ventilation, is
directly related to the source of release and its corresponding release rate.
Therefore, when adequate ventilation is provided, the dilution of the flammable
mixture to below its lower flammability limit should entail the extent reduction
of the classified area. Such reduction may be substantial enough to lead to a
classified area extent that is negligible and thus, considered a non-classified area.
5.4.3
Ventilation Availability
The ventilation availability has an influence on the presence or formation of an
explosive atmosphere. Guidance on availability is given in Appendix D.
6.
Documentation
All area classification definition should be properly documented. All relevant
information used should be referred to. Examples of such information, or of a
method used, would be:
Recommendations from relevant codes and standards

Gas and vapor dispersion characteristics and calculations
The results of the area classification study and any subsequent alterations to it
shall be placed on record.
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Those properties that are relevant to area classification of all process materials
used in the facility should be listed and should include flashpoint, boiling point,
ignition temperature, vapor pressure, vapor density and flammable limits.
Samples of tables for the recording of the physical /chemical properties of the
flammable materials and the characterization of the sources of release are shown
in Appendix E.
Area classification documents should include plans and elevations, as
appropriate, showing both the type and extent of the classified areas. Where the
topography of an area influences the extent of the classified areas, this should be
documented.
The documents should also include other relevant information:
The location and identification of sources of release. For large and

complex facilities or process areas, it may be helpful to itemize or
number the sources of release to facilitate cross-referencing between the
data sheets and the drawings.
The position of openings in buildings (e.g., windows, doors, inlets and
outlets of air for ventilation, etc.).
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Appendix A
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Figure A.1 Electrical Area Classification Flow Diagram
Start
Select process area
List all hazardous materials
Locate all hazardous materials

release sources
Is area
classification
required?
No
Yes
Class I, Division 2
Class I, Division 1
Determine area boundaries
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Figure A.1 Electrical Area Classification Flow Diagram (cont.)
Evaluate classification alternatives
Relocation of process equipment /

addition of barriers
Relocation of electrical equipment
outside of electrical classified
areas / addition of barriers
Purging of enclosure, room or
building
Use of intrinsically safe equipment

and wiring
Use of non-incendive equipment,
oil immersed and hermetically
sealed contacts
Electrical classification drawings
Summarize design criteria for area

classification
Is there any conflict

with governing regulations,
codes, standards or industry
practices?
Use of suitable enclosures

Yes
Resolve conflict
No
Finalize and issue

design criteria
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Appendix B
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Sources of Release
The rigid application of the following examples is not intended and may need to
be varied to suit particular process equipment and situations.
Process Plants
Sources giving a continuous grade of release:
The surface of flammable liquid in a fixed roof tank, with a permanent

vent to the atmosphere
The surface of a flammable liquid which is open to the atmosphere
continuously or for long periods of time (e.g., an oil/water separator)
Sources giving a primary grade of release:
Pump, compressor or valve seals if release of flammable material during

normal operation is expected
Water drainage points on vessels which contain flammable liquids, and
which may release flammable material into the atmosphere while draining
off during normal operation
Sample points which are expected to release flammable material into the
atmosphere during normal operation
Relief valves, vents and other openings which are expected to release
flammable material into the atmosphere during normal operation
Sources giving a secondary grade of release:
Pump, compressor or valve seals if release of flammable material during

normal operation of the equipment is not expected
Flanges, connections and pipe fittings, where release of flammable
material is not expected during normal operation
Sample points which are not expected to release flammable material
during normal operation
Relief valves, vents and other openings which are not expected to release
flammable material into the atmosphere during normal operation
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Appendix C
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Examples of Area Classification
Area classification involves knowledge of the behavior of flammable

gases and liquids when they are released from containment and, sound
engineering judgement based on equipment performance experience. For
this reason, it is neither practicable nor possible to cover with these
examples every conceivable variation of plant and process characteristics.
The chosen examples are those that better describe the general
philosophy of area classification and thus, allow for the safe use of
equipment in hazardous conditions.
In determining the distances shown in the diagrams, specific plant
component conditions have been given. The leakage conditions, as well,
have been considered in relation to the mechanical performance of the
equipment and other representative design criteria. The examples are just
representative of plant conditions since factors such as inventory,
pressure, temperature, shut-off time, dispersion and other criteria related
to plant components and process material affect the area classification.
Therefore, these examples represent guidance only and will need to be
adapted to take into account particular circumstances.
According to the selected governing code, standard or industrial practice,
the shape and extent of the classified area may vary.
The intention of the examples that follow is not primarily that they
should be used for area classification. Their main objective is to
demonstrate typical results, which may be obtained in practice in a
number of different situations by following the guidance and procedures
of this document.
The figures shown correspond closely to those in various national or
industrial codes. They are only intended as a guide to the magnitude of
the classified areas. In individual cases, the extent and shape of the
classified areas may be taken from API RP 500.
In practice, if it is intended to use the examples given in this document
for area classification, account must be taken on the specific details of
each individual case.
In each example, some but not all parameters that influence the type and
extent of classified areas are given. The result of the classification
normally gives a conservative result, taking into account those factors
that have been specified and others that it has been possible to identify
but not quantify. This means that, if it is possible to specify the operating
parameters more closely, a more precise classification can be obtained.
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Example No. 1
A normal industrial pump mounted at ground level, situated outdoors, pumping flammable liquid:
a
Not to scale
Sump
Ground level
Class I, Div. 1
Class I, Div. 2
Source of release (pump seal)
Main factors affecting the type and extentof classified areas

Ventilation
Type:
Degree:
Availability:
Source of release
Natural
Adequate
Poor
Artificial
Adequate*
Fair
Grade of release
Pump seal
Primary and secondary
Product
Flash point
Vapor density
Below process and ambient temperature

Greater than air
*Airflow from pump motor
Taking into account relevant parameters, the following are typical values which will be obtained for a pump having
a capacity of 50 m3/h (220 gpm) and operating at low pressure:
a = 3 m (10 ft) horizontally from source of release.
b = 1 m (3 ft) from ground level and up to 1 m (3 ft) above the source of release.
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Example No. 2
A normal industrial pump mounted at ground level, situated indoors, pumping flammable liquid:
c
Not to scale
Sump
Ground level
Class I, Div. 1
Class I, Div. 2
Source of release (pump seal)

Ventilation
Type:
Degree:
Availability:
Artificial
Adequate
Fair
Source of release
Grade of release
Pump seal (pump gland)

and pool at floor level
Primary and secondary
Flash point
Vapor density

Greater than air
Product
a = 1.5 m (5 ft) horizontally from source of release.
b = 1 m (3 ft) from ground level and up to 1 m (3 ft) above the source of release.
c = 3 m (10 ft) horizontally from source of release.
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Example No. 3
Control valve, installed in a closed process pipework system conveying flammable gas:
Not to scale
Ground level
Class I, Div. 2
Source of release (valve)

Ventilation
Type:
Degree:
Availability:
Natural
Adequate
Fair
Source of release
Grade of release
Valve shaft seal
Secondary
Gas
Gas density
Propane
Greater than air
Product
a = 1 m (3 ft) around the source of release.
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Example No. 4
A normal industrial pump mounted at ground level, situated outdoors, pumping flammable liquid:
Not to scale
d
Ground level
b
a
c
Liquid
Class I, Div. 1
Class I, Div. 2

Ventilation
Type:
Degree:
Availability:
Natural
Adequate
Poor
Source of release
Grade of release
Liquid surface
Continuous
Flash point
Vapor density

Greater than air
Product
a = 3 m (10 ft) horizontally from the separator.
b = 1 m (3 ft) above ground level
c = 7.5 m (22.5 ft) horizontally.
d = 3 m (10 ft) above ground level.
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Example No. 5
Flammable liquid storage tank, situated outdoors, with fixed roof and no internal floating roof tank:
a
Not to scale
c
b
Liquid surface
Sump
Class I, Div. 1
Class I, Div. 2

Ventilation
Type:
Degree:
Availability:
Source of release
Natural
Adequate
Good
Grade of release
Liquid surface
Vent opening
Flanges, etc. inside dike
Continuous
Primary
Secondary
Flash point
Vapor density

Greater than air
Product
a = 3 m (10 ft) horizontally from the separator.
b = 1 m (3 ft) above ground level
c = 7.5 m (22.5 ft) horizontally.
ELECTRICAL AREA
CLASSIFICATION
Appendix D
REG 003
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ELECTRICAL AREA
CLASSIFICATION
REG 003
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The purpose of this Appendix is to assess the degree of ventilation by defining

ventilation conditions, and by means of explanations, examples and calculation
give guidance on the design of artificial ventilation systems.
The methods developed allow the determination of the type of classified area by:
Estimating the minimum ventilation rate required to prevent significant

build-up of an explosive atmosphere and using this to calculate a
hypothetical volume, Vz, which with an estimated dispersion time, t,
allows determination of the degree of ventilation. It is not intended that
these calculations be used to determine the extent of the classified area.
Determining the type of classified area from the degree and ventilation
availability and the grade of release.
Natural Ventilation
In open-air5 situations, natural ventilation will often be sufficient to ensure
dispersal of any explosive atmosphere that arises in the area. Natural ventilation
may also be effective in certain indoor situations (e.g., where a building has
openings in its walls and/or roof).
Examples of natural ventilation:
Open structures, pipe racks, pump bays and the like.

An open building, which taking in consideration the relative density of
the gases and/or vapors involved, has openings in the walls and/or roof
so dimensioned and located that the ventilation inside the building, for
the purpose of area classification, can be regarded equivalent to an open
air situation.
A building that is not an open building but has natural ventilation
provided by means of permanent openings made for ventilation
purposes.
Artificial Ventilation
The artificial ventilation of an area may be either general or local and, for both of
these, differing degrees of air movement and replacement can be appropriate.
Examples of general artificial ventilation:
A building that is provided with fans in the walls and/or in the roof to
improve the general ventilation in the building.
For outdoor areas, the evaluation of ventilation should normally be based on an assumed minimum wind
speed of 0.5 m/s (1.12 mph), which will be present virtually continuously. The wind speed will frequently be
above 2 m/s (4.47 mph).
5
ELECTRICAL AREA
CLASSIFICATION
REG 003
Page 26 of 29
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An open-air situation provided with suitably located fans to improve the general
ventilation of the area.
Examples of local artificial ventilation:
An air/vapor extraction system applied to an item of process equipment

which continuously or periodically releases flammable vapor.
A forced or extract ventilation system applied to a small, ventilated local
area where it is expected that an explosive atmosphere may otherwise
occur.
Degree of ventilation
The effectiveness of the ventilation in controlling dispersion and persistence of
the explosive atmosphere will depend upon the degree and ventilation availability
and the design of the system. For example, ventilation may not be sufficient to
prevent the formation of an explosive atmosphere but may be sufficient to avoid
persistence of an explosive atmosphere.
The following degrees of ventilation are recognized:
Adequate ventilation.
Inadequate ventilation.
Ventilation availability
The ventilation availability (as well as the degree of ventilation) needs to be taken
into account when determining the type of area classification:
Three levels of ventilation availability should be considered:
Good ventilation is present virtually continuously.
Fair ventilation is expected to be present during normal operation.
Discontinuities are permitted provided they occur infrequently and for short
periods.
Poor ventilation that does not meet the standard of fair or good, but
discontinuities are not expected to occur for long periods.
Ventilation that does not even meet the requirements for poor availability must
not be considered to contribute to the ventilation of the area.
When considering natural ventilation for outdoor areas, the evaluation of
ventilation should normally be based on an assumed minimum wind speed of 0.5
m/s (1.12 mph), which will be present continuously. In which case, the
availability can be considered as good.
REG 003
ELECTRICAL AREA
CLASSIFICATION
Page 27 of 29
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When assessing the availability of artificial ventilation, the reliability and

availability of equipment such as standby blowers should be considered. Good
availability will normally require that on system failure, the standby blowers start
automatically. However, if provision is made for preventing the release of
flammable material when the ventilation has failed, the corresponding area
classification does not require further modification.
The effect of ventilation on the area classification can be summarized in table
D.1.
Table D.1 - Influence of ventilation on classified
areas
Degree of ventilation
Adequate
Grade of release
Inadequate
Ventilation Availability
Good
Fair
Poor
All
Continuous
Class I, Div. 1
Class I, Div. 1
Class I, Div. 1
Class I, Div. 1
Primary
Class I, Div. 1
Class I, Div. 1
+
Class I, Div. 2
Class I, Div. 1
+
Class I, Div. 2
Class I, Div. 1
Secondary
Class I, Div. 2
Class I, Div. 2
Class I, Div. 2
Class I, Div. 1
Notes:
1) "+" denotes "surrounded by".
2) The Class I, Div. 2 area created by a secondary grade of release may exceed that attributable to a primary
or continuous grade of release; in which case the greater distance should be taken.
ELECTRICAL AREA
CLASSIFICATION
Appendix E
REG 003
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REG 003
ELECTRICAL AREA
CLASSIFICATION
No
Facility:
Area:
Equipment:
Responsible:
Flammable Material
Name
Flashpoint
oF
Date:
Volatility
vol. %
kg/
m3
lb/ft 3
Re v. 0
Drawing:
LFL
Composition
Page 29 of 29
Vapor Pressure
20 oC (68oF)
Boiling Point
Revision:
Relative
Density
Page:
Ignition
Temperature
kPa
psi
oF
oF
Remarks
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
Notes:
(1) Check the appropriate box for the units being used.
(2) In the absence of a vapor pressure value, the boiling point should be
used.
REG-003 - Electrical Area Classification

Electrical Area Classification

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Electrical Area Classification

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ELECTRICAL AREA

PROPRIETARY INFORMATION For Auth oriz e d Com pany Us e O nly

Practice for Classification of Locations for Electrical Installations at Petroleum

NFPA 30, Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code.

Eliminate the likelihood of a flammable atmosphere occurring around

PROPRIETARY INFORMATION For Auth oriz e d Com pany Us e O nly

Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) and Comite Europeen de Normalisation

PROPRIETARY INFORMATION For Auth oriz e d Com pany Us e O nly

In lieu of Group A, B, C, and D atmospheres, the alternate system establishes

Atmospheres containing acetylene

Atmospheres containing hydrogen, fuel and combustible

Atmospheres containing ethyl ether, ethylene, or gases or

Atmospheres containing acetone, ammonia, benzene,

involves the analysis of the basic possibility of the occurrence of an explosive

Type of Classified Area

Extent of the Classified Area

Release rate of gas or vapor

Geometry of the source of release

PROPRIETARY INFORMATION For Auth oriz e d Com pany Us e O nly

Lower Flammability Limit (LFL)

Relative density of the gas or vapor

Consideration should always be given to the possibility that a gas which is

PROPRIETARY INFORMATION For Auth oriz e d Com pany Us e O nly

Maintaining a static overpressure in the area relative to the

Acceptable Classification Alternatives

Relocation of Process Equipment

Relocation of Electrical Equipment

Purging of the Enclosure/Room/Building

Pressurizing of the Enclosure/Room/Building

PROPRIETARY INFORMATION For Auth oriz e d Com pany Us e O nly

Intrinsically Safe Equipment and Wiring

Hermetically Sealed Contacts

PROPRIETARY INFORMATION For Auth oriz e d Com pany Us e O nly

Recommendations from relevant codes and standards

PROPRIETARY INFORMATION For Auth oriz e d Com pany Us e O nly

The location and identification of sources of release. For large and

PROPRIETARY INFORMATION For Auth oriz e d Com pany Us e O nly

PROPRIETARY INFORMATION For Auth oriz e d Com pany Us e O nly

Figure A.1 Electrical Area Classification Flow Diagram

Select process area

List all hazardous materials

Locate all hazardous materials

Determine area boundaries

PROPRIETARY INFORMATION For Auth oriz e d Com pany Us e O nly

Figure A.1 Electrical Area Classification Flow Diagram (cont.)

Evaluate classification alternatives

Relocation of process equipment /

Use of intrinsically safe equipment

Electrical classification drawings

Summarize design criteria for area

Is there any conflict

Use of suitable enclosures

PROPRIETARY INFORMATION For Auth oriz e d Com pany Us e O nly

Finalize and issue

PROPRIETARY INFORMATION For Auth oriz e d Com pany Us e O nly

The surface of flammable liquid in a fixed roof tank, with a permanent

Sources giving a primary grade of release:

Pump, compressor or valve seals if release of flammable material during

Sources giving a secondary grade of release:

Pump, compressor or valve seals if release of flammable material during

PROPRIETARY INFORMATION For Auth oriz e d Com pany Us e O nly

PROPRIETARY INFORMATION For Auth oriz e d Com pany Us e O nly

Examples of Area Classification

Area classification involves knowledge of the behavior of flammable