Selection and installation of electrical apparatus in explosive gas atmospheres, other than mines

The vision of simplification of selection and installation of electrical apparatus in explosive gas atmospheres is as far off as ever. Indeed, the development of new techniques has made the process even more complex. The introduction by the ATEX Directives of Categories, apart from causing confusion by using a term that has been used for many years in association with intrinsic safety has even more formally linked the type of protection with the zone of use-at a time when risk assessment is being actively pursued. The IEC/CENELEC standard, IEC 60079-14, as expanded by the BSI Published Document provides clear, practical guidance for those involved in the selection and installation of apparatus. It is expected that the revised standard will encompass most of this new text. The complexity of the subject is such that all personnel involved must receive thorough validated training if safety is not to be jeopardised.