Explosion proof emergency lights are designed for environments where flammable gases, vapors, dust, or fibers are present. These high-risk locations include offshore drilling platforms, manufacturing plants, refineries, and chemical processing facilities. In such conditions, traditional emergency lights could trigger explosions due to exposed electrical components. That’s why explosion proof lighting is essential for code compliance and worker safety.
What Makes a Light “Explosion Proof”?
Explosion proof emergency lights are hermetically sealed and constructed using highly durable, non-sparking materials such as cast aluminum or steel. These fixtures are engineered to contain any internal spark or ignition source, preventing it from igniting hazardous substances in the surrounding environment.
All of our hazardous location emergency lights are UL listed, manufactured in North America, and backed by a three-year warranty for performance and reliability.
Classification: Class 1 vs. Class 2 Fixtures
Explosion proof lights are categorized based on the type of hazardous materials present in the environment:
- Class 1: Environments with flammable gases or vapors
- Class 2: Environments with combustible dust or fiber flyings
Division Ratings: Division 1 vs. Division 2
Within each class, fixtures are further divided by the frequency and likelihood of hazardous materials being present:
Division 1 – Constant Hazard Presence
Hazardous substances are present during normal operating conditions. Fixtures in these zones must be completely sealed and explosion-contained at all times.
Division 2 – Intermittent Hazard Presence
Hazardous substances are only present during abnormal or accidental conditions, such as leaks or malfunctions. Division 2 lights offer a lighter-duty design compared to Division 1 but still meet strict safety standards.
UL Listed & Nationwide Code Compliance
Every explosion proof fixture sold by Emergency Lights Co. is UL listed and compliant with NEC, OSHA, and NFPA requirements for hazardous environments. These fixtures are approved for use throughout the United States in both industrial and commercial applications.