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Explosion Proof Exit Sign

Explosion Proof Exit Sign

Explosion Proof Exit Signs

When installing exit signs in hazardous locations, one must take into account the inherent danger in these areas. While radioactivity is a hazard, it isn’t a common one. Much more likely would be to encounter flammable materials in the area, which could be ignited, causing an explosive fire. Since electrical spark can cause ignition of that fire, lighting products, including exit signs, must be designed to prevent the possibility of creating a spark in the presence of such materials.

Class 1 Division 2 Exit Sign

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Class 1 Division 1 Exit Sign

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Why Explosion Proof Exit Signs Are Important

While one could argue that all materials are flammable to some extent, not all materials are likely to burst into flames at the slightest provocation; the provocation of a cigarette coal or a single electrical spark. Those flammable materials create a high-risk environment, which necessitates special attention to the protection of personnel working in same said areas.

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So, what types of materials would constitute enough of a fire hazard to require special exit signs? There are three classes of materials that have been identified by regulations to be sufficiently flammable as to require Explosion Proof Exit Signs, they are:

Class 1 – flammable vapors and gases
Class 2 – flammable dust
Class 3 – flammable fibers and flyings

While all three of these categories create a risky environment, it is clear that the greatest risk comes from flammable vapors and gases. While flammable dust may not enter into a closed cabinet, there is nothing that would stop the flammable vapors from entering the same closed cabinet.

Therefore, designing exit signs to be used in areas where flammable vapors and gases are present requires creating a design that doesn’t allow those vapors and gases to pass inside, where the electrical components are located. The entire case must be sealed from those gases.

Class 1 Division 2 Exit Sign Emergency Lights Combo

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Class 1 Division 1 Exit Sign Emergency Lights Combo

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Class 1 Division 1 and Class 1 Division 2

Risk of fire doesn’t just depend upon the type of flammable material that is in the area, but also upon the likelihood of that flammable material being present in the area. A manufacturing area where flammable materials are used in the manufacturing process is considered likely to have flammable materials as a normal part of operations. We call this area a “Division 1” area. However, the warehouse where those materials are stored isn’t likely to be as much of a risk, because the materials are in sealed containers. We call this are a “Division 2” area, because the presence of those materials can only happen as an abnormal part of operations, such as a spill. While there is risk, it isn’t as great a risk.

Since Division 2 Emergency Exit Signs aren’t as costly as Division 1, it’s important to be able to differentiate these areas. To be able to call an area “Division 2” you must be able to show a separation from the Division 1 area, by a wall. If there a doorway in the wall, it must have a self-closing door or curtain across it, to prevent migration of the flammable materials into the Division 2 area.