Lighting in hazardous areas is critical not just for visibility, but for ensuring the safety of everyone in the workspace. In industries such as oil and gas, chemical manufacturing, and mining, where explosive atmospheres are common, the right lighting can mean the difference between safe operations and potential disaster. Therefore, choosing the appropriate lighting solutions that comply with safety standards is essential.

Best Practices for Lighting in Hazardous Areas

Understand Hazardous Zone Classification

The first step in selecting the appropriate lighting for hazardous areas is to understand the specific classification of the area. Hazardous zones are categorised based on the presence of flammable gases, vapours, or dust, with each zone requiring different safety measures. For instance, Zone 0/20 represents an area where explosive atmospheres are present continuously or for long periods, while Zone 1/21 indicates areas where explosive atmospheres are likely to occur under normal operations. Zone 2/22 refers to areas where explosive atmospheres are not likely to occur but, if they do, will only persist for a short time. Knowing your zone classification helps in selecting the right lighting products that are certified to meet the safety requirements of each zone.

Choose ATEX-Certified Lighting

Once you have determined the hazardous zone classification, it’s crucial to select lighting that is ATEX-certified. The ATEX certification ensures that the lighting equipment is safe to use in explosive atmospheres, reducing the risk of ignition. This certification is not just a regulatory requirement but a vital safety measure that protects both workers and facilities. When choosing ATEX-certified lighting, consider both fixed and portable options to provide flexibility in illuminating various parts of the hazardous area.

Consider the Environmental Conditions:

Hazardous areas are often subject to harsh environmental conditions, such as extreme temperatures, high humidity, and corrosive substances. Therefore, the lighting solutions you choose must be durable and capable of withstanding these conditions without compromising safety. For instance, in areas with high dust levels, dust-tight lighting fixtures are necessary to prevent dust accumulation that could lead to overheating and potentially ignite flammable substances. In wet or marine environments, corrosion-resistant materials and waterproof designs are essential.

Prioritise Energy Efficiency and Longevity

Energy efficiency is an important factor to consider when selecting lighting for hazardous areas, especially in large industrial facilities where lighting is in constant use. LED lighting solutions are particularly beneficial as they consume less energy and have a longer lifespan compared to traditional lighting. This not only reduces operational costs but also minimises the need for frequent replacements, which can be inefficient and time-consuming in crucial moments.

Implement Regular Maintenance and Inspection

Regular maintenance and inspection are key to ensuring that your lighting systems remain effective and safe over time. Even the most robust lighting solutions can degrade or become compromised due to environmental factors or wear and tear. Establish a routine inspection schedule to check for signs of damage, corrosion, or other issues that could affect the performance or safety of the lighting equipment. Additionally, ensure that maintenance personnel are trained to handle lighting systems in hazardous areas safely.

Integrate Portable Lighting Solutions

In dynamic work environments, where tasks may require illumination in various locations, portable lighting solutions are indispensable. Portable, ATEX-certified lighting provides flexibility and ensures that workers can safely carry out tasks in different parts of the hazardous area. Products like handheld lamps and torches are particularly useful in confined spaces or for close-up inspection tasks where fixed lighting may not reach.

Exloc’s Solutions

To meet these stringent requirements, Exloc offers a range of ATEX-certified lighting products designed specifically for hazardous areas. Among the top recommendations is the Scangrip Nova-Ex R, a rechargeable LED work light that delivers powerful illumination with up to 1500 lumens. This versatile light is perfect for a variety of industrial applications, offering both portability and durability. Its robust design ensures long-lasting performance, making it an excellent choice for Zones 1/21 and 2/22.

Another stand-out option is the Scangrip Uni Ex, a handheld LED task light that provides safe and reliable illumination in hazardous environments. This compact, lightweight light is designed for ease of use, with an ergonomic design that makes it comfortable to handle during long work hours. It’s particularly suited for tasks that require a portable and flexible light source, offering the high-performance capabilities you need in explosive atmospheres.

For those who require compact yet powerful lighting, the LedLenser Ex4 & Ex7 torches are ideal. These torches are designed to be intrinsically safe, with robust construction that can withstand tough conditions. The Ex4 is certified for Zone 0/20, while the Ex7 is suitable for Zone 1/21, providing high-intensity, focused light exactly where you need it. These torches are perfect for detailed inspection work or when you need to navigate through hazardous environments safely.

Lastly, the Kira – KE-LED Ex is a high-performance LED hand lamp that combines safety with exceptional light output. This lamp is particularly useful in environments where both handheld mobility and bright, reliable light are necessary. Its ATEX certification for Zones 1/21 and 2/22, along with its ergonomic design, makes it an indispensable tool for hazardous areas.

Ensuring Safety with the Right Lighting Solutions

Lighting in hazardous areas is not just about compliance—it’s about ensuring the safety and efficiency of your operations. By understanding the specific needs of your hazardous zones and choosing the right products, such as those offered by Exloc, you can create a safer and more productive work environment. The Scangrip Nova-Ex R, Scangrip Uni Ex, LedLenser Ex4 & Ex7, and Kira – KE-LED Ex are all excellent choices that meet the highest safety standards while offering the durability and reliability needed in challenging conditions.

For more detailed information on these products and to explore other lighting solutions, visit Exloc’s Lighting Solutions page.