Explosion-proof lighting forms an integral part of equipment safety when operating in areas that have been deemed hazardous locations. The presence or potential presence of flammable or explosive gases, vapors and materials in the hazardous workplace presents a serious threat to the safety of workers in that area, and the structures, goods and health of nearby homes, businesses and people. In many cases, the presence of flammable materials is a necessary part of normal operations. As a result, preventing ignition of these materials becomes a critical part of maintaining safety while they are present.
In most hazardous locations, explosion-proof lighting is integrally installed and part of a comprehensive approach to safety that benefits from regular inspection and maintenance. Such lighting is generally well-suited to the environments at hand and performs quite well. The wiring, controls and power supply for such systems are likewise matched through classification to such lighting systems in order to meet compliance and help provide the highest degree of safe operation possible. However, it is not possible to utilize such integrally installed lighting systems in all hazardous locations. Locations where work is not so routinely performed, but the potential for ignition exists, present new challenges for the workers who must enter them.