Our Voltimum Experts answer your questions on a daily basis in our Technical Expertise area. This one, concerning electrical equipment associated with an explosive store, is answered by SELECT:
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Question: Can we install lighting switch and fire alarm devices inside an explosive store, or should we install this equipment outside?
Answer: Equipment in these areas needs to be suitable for installation in the hazardous zones. If it has not been specifically designed for use in hazardous areas, then the equipment should be installed outside the location.
Voltimum Managing Editor James Hunt says: 'Areas where flammable or explosive fluids, liquids, vapours and dusts are found, or are likely to be found, are called 'Hazardous Areas'. Hazardous areas are defined in The Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2002 (DSEAR) as 'any place in which an explosive atmosphere may occur in quantities such as to require special precautions to protect the safety of workers'. In this context, 'special precautions' is best taken as relating to the construction, installation and use of apparatus, as given in BS EN 60079 -10.
For more on hazardous areas in general, go to: www.voltimum.co.uk/cm.jsp?action=view&cat=135&universe=consult.experts_hottopics.FireSafAndSec.Atex
To see many more Q & A in Voltimum UK's Experts Area, please click on the link: www.voltimum.co.uk/consult.php?universe=consult.index.questions
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