CHAPTER 5

SPECIAL OCCUPANCIES
ARTICLE 5.0- Hazardous(Classified)
Locations, Classes I, II, III, Division 1 and 2
 Scope:

Cover the requirements for electrical and

electronic equipment and wiring for all
voltages in different classes and divisions
where fire and explosion hazards may exist
due to flammable gases, flammable liquid-
produced vapors, combustible dusts, or
ignitable fibers/flyings.
 Flammable gases

 Acetylene, ammonia, hydrogen, propane, propylene and methane are

all flammable gases, also known as fuel gases
 Flammable liquid-produced vapors

 Examples: acetone, benzene, carbon disulfide, ethyl alcohol, ethyl

acetate, gasoline, hexane, isopropanol, methanol, toluene.
 Combustible dusts

agricultural products such as egg whites, powdered milk,

cornstarch, sugar, flour, grain, potato, rice, etc.
Class I Locations
Are those in which they are or maybe present in the air in
quantities sufficient to produce explosive or ignitable
mixtures
Class II Locations
• Are those that are hazardous because of the presence of
combustible dust
Class III Locations
• Hazardous because of the presence of easily ignitable
fibers or where materials producing combustible flyings
are handled, manufactured, or used, but in which such
fibers/flyings are not likely to be in suspension in the air in
quantities sufficient to produce ignitable mixtures
 Class I, Division 1
Exist under normal operating conditions, or

Their flash points may exist frequently because

of repair or maintenance operations or because
of leakage, or

It might also cause simultaneous failure of

electrical equipment In such a way as to directly
cause the electrical equipment to become a
source of ignition.
 Class I, Division 1 examples
Locations containing open tanks or vats of
volatile flammable liquids

Drying rooms or compartments for the

evaporation of flammable solvents

Portions of cleaning and dyeing plants

where flammable liquids are used
 Class I, Division 2
Normally be confined within closed containers or
closed systems from which they can escape only in
case of accidental rupture or breakdown of such
containers or systems or in case of abnormal operation
of equipment, or
Normally prevented by positive mechanical
ventilations

Flash points might occasionally be communicated

unless such communication is prevented by adequate
positive-pressure ventilation
 Class II, Division 1
Combustible dust is in the air under normal
operating conditions

Where mechanical failure or abnormal

operation of machinery/equipment might cause
such explosive or ignitable mixtures.

In which Group E combustible dusts may be

present in quantities sufficient to be hazardous.
 Class II, Division 2
In w/c CD is present due to abnormal operations
maybe present in the air

CD are present but are normally insufficient to

interfere with the normal operations of electrical
equipment or apparatus

CD accumulations on, or in the vicinity of the

Electrical equipment could be sufficient to
interfere with the safe dissipation.
Class III, Division 1
A location in which easily ignitable
fibers/flyings are handled,manufactured, or
used

Class III, Division 2

A location in which easily ignitable
fibers/flyings are stored, or handled other
than in the process of manufacture.
 Easily Ignitable Materials
Rayon Hemp Jute

Rayon
Istle Cocoa fiber Sisal or henequen
Oakum
5.0.1.6 Materials Groups

For purposes of testing, approval,

and area classification, various air
mixtures( not oxygen-enriched)
shall be grouped.
 Class I Group classifications

 Group A – Acetylene

Flammable gas, Flammable liquid-produced vapor, or combustible

liquid-produced vapor mixed with air that may burn or explode. Having
either a Maximum Experimental Safe Gap(MESG) and Minimum Igniting
Current Ratio (MIC ratio) of:

Group B – (MESG <= 0.45mm) or (MIC <= 0.40)

 Group C – (0.45mm < MESG <= 0.75mm) or (0.4 < MIC <= 0.80)

 Group D – (0.75mm < MESG) or (0.80 < MIC

Class II Group classifications
Atmospheres Containing Combustible:
Group E – metal dust, including aluminum,
magnesium, and their commercial alloys, or other
combustible dust.

Group F – Carbon-aceous dusts that have more

than 8% total entrapped volatiles.

Group G – Dust not included in Group E or Group F

including flour, grain, wood, plastic, and chemicals
5.0.1.7 Protection Techniques
5.0.1.8 Equipment – require equipment construction
and installation that ensure safe performance under
conditions of proper use in hazardous locations

A. Suitability
B. Approval for Class and Properties
C. Marking
D. Temperature
E. Threading
F. Optical Fiber Cables
 C. Markings
1) Class

2) Division

3) Material Classification Group

4) Equipment Temperature

-Marking shall specify the temperature, or operating
temperature. The temperature class, if provided, shall be
indicated using the temperature class(T-codes).
 C. Markings

5) Ambient Temperature Range

– Electrical equipment designed for use in the ambient temp.
range between -25℃ to +40℃ shall require no ambient temp.
marking.

- Other than -25℃ to +40℃, The marking shall specify the

special range of amb. Temp. and shall include either the
symbol “Ta” or “Tamb.
 C. Markings

6)Special Allowances
Locations shall not be required to be marked with class,
division, group, temperature class, or ambient temperature
range:
a. General-Purpose Equipment – fixed
general purpose equipment in Class I locations,
other than fixed luminaires, that is acceptable
for use in Class I, Division 2
b. Dust tight Equipment– fixed dust tight
equipment, other than fixed luminaires, that is
acceptable for use in Class II, Division 2 and
Class III locations
c. Associated Apparatus- associated
intrinsically safe apparatus and associated
nonincendive field wiring apparatus that are
not protected by an alternative type of
protection
d. Simple Apparatus– as defined in 5.4 shall
not be required to be marked.
 D. Temperature
(1) Class I Temperature – temp. marking specified in
5.0.1.8(C) shall not exceed the auto ignition
temperature of the specific gas or vapor to be
encountered.
(2) Class II Temperature – temp. marking specified in
5.0.1.8(C) shall be less than the temp. of the
specific dust to be encountered. For organic dust
that may dehydrate of carbonize, the temp
marking shall not exceed the lower of either the
ignition temp. or 165℃
 E. Threading
The supply connection entry thread
form shall be NPT or metric. Conduit and
fittings shall be made wrench tight to
prevent sparking when fault current
flows thru the conduit system
(1) Equipment Provided with threaded entries
for NPT-Threaded Conduit or Fittings
All NPT-Threaded conduit and fittings shall be
threaded with a National (American) Standard
Pipe Taper thread
NPT-Threaded entries into explosion proof
equipment shall be made up with at least five
threads fully engaged.

Exception:
Joints with factory-threaded NPT entries shall be made up
with at least four and one-half threads fully engaged.
Article 5.1
 Article 5.1 Class I Locations
Wiring Methods

Class I, Division 1
1. General
Threaded rigid metal conduit
or threaded steel intermediate
metal conduit.
Type MI cable terminated with fittings
listed for the location and shall be
installed and supported in a manner to
avoid tensile stress at the termination
fittings.
Type MC-HL cable and Type ITC-HL cable listed for use in Class 1, Zone 1 or
Division 1 locations
Optical Fiber cable Types OFNP, OFCP, OFNR,OFCR,OFNG,OFCG, OFN, and
OFC shall be permitted in raceways
2. Flexible Connections
-Where necessary to employ flexible connections, as at motor terminals, one of the
following shall be permitted:

Flexible fittings listed for the location

Flexible cord in accordance with the provisions of 5.1.3.41, terminated with
cord connectors listed for the location
Industrial establishments with restricted public access, where the conditions of
maintenance and supervision ensure that only qualified person service the
installation, for application limited to 600 volts, nominal or less, listed Type TC
ER-HL cable with an overall jacket that is terminated with fittings
3.Boxes and Fittings- all boxes and fittings shall be approved for Class I, division 1.
B) Class 1, Division 2
Rigid Metal Conduit and Intermediate Metal Conduit with listed threadless fittings
Enclosed gasketed busways and enclosed gasketed wireways

Busways wireways
Type PLTC and Type PLTC-ER cable. The cable shall be terminated with listed
fittings.
Type ITC and Type ITC-ER cable as
permitted in 7.27.1.4 and terminated
with listed fittings
Type MC, MV ,TC, or TC-ER cable, including installation in cable trays system. The cable
shall be terminated with listed fittings.
Optical Fiber cable Types OFNP, OFCP, OFNR,OFCR,OFNG,OFCG, OFN, and
OFC shall be permitted in raceways
Cablebus
2. Flexible Connections

1.Listed flexible metal fittings

2.Flexible metal conduit with listed fittings
3. Interlocked armor Type MC cable with listed fittings
4.Liquidtight flexible metallic conduit with listed fittings
5.Liquidtight flexible non-metallic conduit with listed fittings
6.Flexible cord listed for extra hard usage and terminated with listed fittings.
7.For elevator use, an identified elevator cable of Type EO, ETP, or ETT
5.1.2.6 Sealing and Drainage

Sealing Compound shall be used in Type MI cable termination fittings to exclude

moisture and other fluids from the cable insulation.
A. Conduit Seals, Class I, Division 1

1. Entering Enclosures
Each conduit entry into an explosion
proof enclosure shall have a conduit
seal.
2. Pressurized Enclosures

Conduit seals shall be installed within 450 mm of

the enclosure in each conduit entry into a
pressurized enclosure where the conduit is not
pressurized as part of the protection system.

Pressurized enclosure systems

3. Two or more Explosion proof
Enclosures

Where two or more explosion proof

enclosures that require conduit seals are
connected by nipples or run of conduit
not more than 900 mm long, a single
conduit seal in each such nipple Explosion-Proof Enclosures
connection or run conduit shall be
considered sufficient if the seal is
located not more than 450 mm from
either enclosure. conduit nipples
4. Class I, Division 1 Boundary
The sealing fitting shall be permitted to be
installed on either side of the boundary
within 3000 mm of the boundary, and it
shall be designed and installed to minimize
the amount of gas or vapor within the
portion of the conduit installed in the
Division 1 location that can be
communicated beyond the seal.
B. Conduit Seals, Class 1, Division 2.

1. Entering Enclosures
For connections to enclosure that required to be explosion proof, a conduit seal shall
be provided in accordance with 5.1.2.6 A 1 and A3.
2. Class I, Division 2 Boundary
The sealing fitting shall be permitted to be installed on either side of the
boundary within 3000 mm of the boundary and it shall be designed and
installed to minimize the amount of gas or vapor within the portion of the
conduit installed in the Division 2.
C. Class I, Division 1 and 2.
Seals installed in Class 1, Division 1 and Division 2 location shall comply with:

1.Fittings- enclosure that contain connections or equipment shall be provided with an

integral sealing means or sealing fittings.

2.Compound- 93° melting point

3.Thickness of compound- shall not be less than metric designator (trade size) of the
sealing fitting
4.Splices and Taps-shall not be made in fittings intended only for sealing with
compound

5. Assemblies- an entire assembly shall be identified for the location where the
equipment may produce sparks, arcs or high temperatures. Integral seal is provided
where conductors pass from one compartment to the other.

6.Conductor or optical fiber fill- the cross sectional area of the conductors or optical
fiber tubes permitted in a seal shall not exceed 25% of the cross sectional area of rigid
metal conduit.
5.2.1: General
5.2.1.1: Scope
 Article 5.2 covers the requirements for electrical equipment and wiring
for all voltages in Class II, Division 1 and 2 locations where fire or
explosion hazards may exist due to combustible dust.
5.2.1.5 Explosion proof Equipment
 Explosion proof equipment and wiring shall not be required and
shall not be acceptable in Class II locations unless also identified
for such locations.

 Explosion proof equipment - Electrical apparatus (such as

compressors, motors, and switches) designed to contain
explosions or flames produced within them (due to arcs, sparks, or
flashes) without igniting the surrounding (external) flammable
gases or vapors.
Example Explosion Proof Equipments
The type of explosion-proof equipment installed at a particular site will
depend on several factors:

- The amount or concentration of flammable substance present and the

duration and frequency of its presence (hazardous zones).
- The type of flammable substance present (chemical composition,
ignition temperature, and others).
- The effects of an explosion and the level of protection required.
Explosion proof
motor
 5.2.2 Wiring
5.2.2.1 Wiring Method

Wiring Methods shall comply with 5.2.2.1 (A) or (B)

(A) Class II, Division I (1. General)
 1. Threaded rigid metal conduit, or threaded steel intermediate metal
conduit
2. Type MI Cable with termination fittings listed for the location.
Type MI cable should be installed and supported. In a manner
to avoid tensile stress.

.
Mineral insulated cables are
used to provide circuit integrity
in areas such as alarm circuits,
emergency lighting and
sprinkler systems.
3. Type MC-HL cable

MC-HL stands for metal clad –

hazardous location

designed for use in mains supply electricity. Used for

underground systems, cable networks, power
networks, outdoor and indoor applications, and cable
ducting.
4. Optical fiber cables. Types OFNP, OFCP, OFNR, OFCR, OFNG, OFCG,
OFN, OFC. Shall be sealed in accordance with 5.2.2.6

very important in high-speed

communications, such as cable
TV and high-speed broadband
services
5. Type ITC-HL Cable

able to withstand numerous

hazards, such as explosive gases,
dust, and mechanical hazards.
(2) Flexible Connections
 Flexible cables, or 'continuous-flex' cables, are electrical cables specially
designed to cope with the tight bending radii and physical stress
associated with moving applications, such as inside cable carriers.
 Dust tight flexible connectors

 Liquid tight flexible metal conduit with listed fittings

 Liquid tight flexible nonmetallic conduit with listed fittings

 Interlocked armor Type MC cable
- Having an overall jacket of suitable polymeric material

 Flexible cord listed for extra hard usage.

- Where Flexible cords are used they shall comply for Class II, Division I

 For Elevator use

- Identified elevator cable of Type EO, ETP, or ETT
(3) Boxes and Fittings
 Shall be provided with threaded bosses for connection to conduit or
cable termination.
(3) Boxes and Fittings
 Shall be provided with threaded bosses for connection to conduit or
cable termination.
Class II , Division 2
1.) General
- All wiring methods permitted in 5.2.2.1 (A)
- Rigid metal conduit, intermediate metal conduit, electrical metal tubing
, dusttight railways
- Type MC or MI cable
- Type PLTC and PLTC-ER
- Type ITC and ITC-ER
- Type MC, MI, MV, TC or TC-ER cable
* Ladder, ventilated trough, or ventilated channel
- Reinforced thermosetting resin conduit (RTRC)
- Optical Fiber Cables Types OFNP, OFCP, OFNR, etc.
- Cable Bus
(2.) Flexible Connections

- Provision must be made for flexibility, 5.2.2.1 (A)(2) shall apply.

(3.) Non Incendive Field Wiring
- Separate Cables
- In multi-conductor cables where conductors of each circuit are within a
grounded metal shield
- In multi-conductor cables or in raceways where conductors of each
circuit have insulation with a minimum thickness of 0.25 mm.
(4.) Boxes and fittings
- All boxes and fittings shall be dusttight.
5.2.2.6 Sealing, Class II, Division 1 and 2
- Where a raceway provides communication between an enclosure is
required to be dust-ignition proof.
- One of the following means shall be permitted
(1) A permanent and effective seal
(2) A horizontal raceway not less than 3000 mm
(3) Vertical raceway not less than 1500 mm long and extending
downward from dust-ignition proof enclosures
(4) A raceway installed in a manner equivalent to (2) or (3) that extends
only horizontally and downward from the dust-ignition proof
enclosures.
5.2.2.16 Uninsulated Exposed Parts
 Class II, Division 1 and 2
- No uninsulated exposed parts, such as electrical conductors, buses,
terminals, or components, that operate at more than 30 volts (15 volts in
wet locations)
5.2.2.21 Grounding and Bonding
 Class II, Division 1 and 2 locations shall be grounded as specified in
Article 2.50
(A.) Bonding
- Locknut-bushing and double locknut types of contacts shall not be
depended on for bonding purposes
- Bonding jumpers with proper fitting or other approved means of
bonding shall be used
- Means of bonding shall apply to all intervening raceway, fittings, boxes,
enclosures and so forth
 (B) Types of Equipment Grounding
Conductors
 Liquid tight metal conduits shall include an equipment bonding jumper
of the wire type in compliance with 2.50.5.13

EXCEPTION- in Class II, Division 2 locations bonding jumpers shall be

permitted to be deleted when the following conditions are met
 (1) Liquid tight metal conduit 1800 mm or less in length is used

 (2) Overcurrent protection in the circuit is limited to 10 Amperes or less

 (3) The load is not a power utilization load

5.2.2.36 Surge Protection Class II
Division 1 and 2
 Surge arresters and surge protective devices installed in Class II,
Division 1 and 2 shall be in suitable Enclosures
5.2.3 Equipments
5.2.3.1 Transformers and Capacitors
 Class II Division 1

1. Containing Liquid that will burn

• Shall be installed in vaults
• Openings shall have self closing doors on both side of wall
• Vent opening shall communicate only with outside air
• Suitable pressure relief openings shall be provided
(2) Not containing
• Installed in vaults complying with 4.50.31 to 4.50.3.8

(3) Group E
• No installation
Class II Division 2
(1) Containing liquid that will burn
- Same with Class II, Division 1

(2) Containing Askarel

- Transformers rated in excess of 25 KVA shall follow:
1. Provided pressure relief vents
2. Means for absorbing any gases inside the case
3. Air space not less than 150 mm
(3) Dry type Transformers
- Installed in vaults
- Shall operate at not over 600 volts nominal
5.2.3.16 Switches, Circuit Breakers,
Motor Controllers and fuses.
(A.) Class II Divison 1
1.) Switching Mechanisms
- Provided with enclosures that are dust tight
2.) Coils and Winding
- Not located in the same enclosure with switching system
- Provided by an enclosure
3.) Resistors
- Shall have dust ignition proof enclosure
5.2.3.26 Motors and Generators
A. Class II, Division 1
Shall be identified for the location and totally enclosed pipe ventilated.
 B. Class II, Division 2
- Totally enclosed
EXCEPTION – if accumulations of dust will be moderate following shall
be installed.
1. Standard open type machines
2. Switching mechanisms
3. Machines with sealed bearings
5.2.3.29 Ventilation Piping
 Shall not be of metal not less than 0.53 mm in thickness and shall
comply with:
1.) lead directly to clean air outside
2.) Be screened
3.) Be protected
(A.) Class II Division 1
1.) Be riveted and soldered
2.) Be bolted and soldered
3.) Be welded
4.) Be rendered dusttight
B.) Class II Division 2
- Shall be sufficiently tight
- For Metal pipes, lock seams and riveted or welded joints shall be
permitted.
5.2.3.31 Luminaires
Class II Division 1
(1.) Marking
(2.) Protection to Physical Damage
(3.) Pendant Luminaires
- For rigid stems longer then 300 mm
• Bracing shall be provided at not more than 300 mm above the lower
end of stem
• Location not more then 300 mm to the point of attachment
(4.) Supports
Class II Division 2

1.) Portable Lighting Equipment

- Clearly marked to indicate wattage
2.) Fixed Lighting
3.) Protected to Physical Damage
4.) Pendant Luminaire
- The same with Class II Division 1
5.) Electrical Discharge Lamps
-comply to 5.2.3.21 (B)
5.2.3.26 Utilization Equipment
(A.) Class II Division 1
- Identified for the location
(B.) Class II Division 2
1.) Heaters – Identified for the location
2.) Motors – shall comply to 5.2.3.26
3.) Switches, CB, and fuses – comply to 5.2.3.16
4.) Transformers – comply to 5.2.3.21
5.2.3.41 Flexible cords Class II Division 1
and 2
(A.) Permitted Uses
1. Shall be attached to utilization equipment
2. Protected by a suitable guard
3. For electric submersible pumps
- Means for removal without entering wet pit
B.) Installation
1.) shall comply to 4.0.2.4
2.) be supported by clamps
3.) be of continuous length
Receptacles and Attachment Plugs
Class II Division 1 and 2
1. Receptacles – shall be part of the premises wiring
2. Attachment Plugs – provides for connection to the grounding
conductor of flexible cord
EXERCISE
 CLASS III
LOCATIONS
ARTICLE 5.3
 SURFACE TEMPERATURE
Maximum surface
temperatures under 120℃ subject to
operating condition shall Overloading
not exceed:

165℃ not subject

to Overloading
5.3.2.1 Wiring
Methods
Class III Division 1,2 Flexible connections
shall be:
1. Dust tight flexible
connectors
Boxes and Fittings
2. Liquid tight flexible
shall be Dust tight
metallic and
nonmetallic w/
listed fittings
3. Interlocked armor
type MC cable
having overall jacket
of suitable
polymeric material
 Non incendive Field
Class III Division 1 Wiring shall be:
1. Separate cables

2. Multi conductor
cables where
conductors of each
circuit are within a
grounded metal
shield and insulation
with a Min.
thickness of
0.25mm.
 Class III Division 1,2 Bonding jumpers 1. Liquid tight flexible
with proper fittings metal conduit
or other approved 1800mm or less in
No uninsulated exposed means shall be used length.
parts that operate at more to all intervening
than 30 volts (15 volts in raceways, boxes, 2. Overcurrent
enclosures, etc. protection in the
wet locations) circuit is limited to
10 A

3. The load is not a

power utilization
load
Class III Division 1,2 Motors and Generators
and other rotating
machinery shall be Metal enclosures
totally enclosed shall be not less than
Switches, CB, motor nonventilated, pipe 0.53mm in
controllers, fuses, relays ventilated, or thickness
etc. shall be provided with enclosed fan cooled
a dust tight enclosure
Class III Division 1,2 Pendant Luminaires:
Stems longer than
300mm permanent and
effective bracing shall
Fixed lighting: be provided at a level
Maximum wattage shall be not more than 300mm
marked and a surface above the lower end of
Temp. not exceeding 165℃ the stem
5.4 Intrinsically Safe
Systems
 Definitions

• Different Intrinsically Safe Circuits

• Intrinsically safe circuits in which the possible

interconnections have not been evaluated and
identified as intrinsically safe
• Intrinsically Safe Circuits

• A circuit in which any spark or thermal effect is

incapable of causing ignition of a mixture of
flammable or combustible material in air under
prescribed test conditions.
• Intrinsically Safe System

• An assembly of interconnected intrinsically safe

apparatus, associated apparatus, and
interconnecting cables, in that those parts of the
system may be used in hazardous (classified)
locations
 Equipment Installation
• Control Drawing
Intrinsically safe
apparatus, associated
apparatus, and other
equipment shall be
installed in accordance
with the control
drawing
• Location
Intrinsically safe apparatus and associated apparatus shall be
permitted to be installed in any hazardous (classified) location
for which it has been identified.

Simple apparatus shall be permitted to be installed in any

hazardous (classified) location
 Intrinsically Safe Apparatus

Solenoid Valve I/P Converters

 Associated Apparatus

Isolated Barriers Zener Diode Barriers

 Simple apparatus

Potentiometers LEDs
• Enclosures
• General-purpose enclosure shall be permitted for intrinsically safe apparatus and
associated apparatus otherwise specified in the manufacturer’s documentation.
Separation of Intrinsically Safe Conductors
• From Nonintrinsically Safe
Circuit Conductors
Conductors of Intrinsically
circuits shall not be placed in any
raceway, cable tray, or cable with
conductors of any nonintrinsically
safe circuit.
• Conductors of intrinsically safe circuit shall be secured so that any conductor
that might come loose from a terminal is unlikely to come into contact with
another terminal. Separation may done by one of the methods:

• 1. at least 50 mm from conductors of any non intrinsically safe circuits

• 2. using of a grounded metal partition 0.91 mm or thicker
• 3. using of any approved insulating partition that extends to within 1.5 mm
of the enclosure walls
• 4. either all intrinsically safe or non intrinsically safe circuit conductors are in
grounded metal sheath or metal clad cables.
• From Different Intrinsically Safe Circuit Conductors
• Clearance between two terminals for connection of field wiring shall be
at least 6 mm.
• Shall be separated by one of the ff. means:
1.conductors of each circuit are within grounded metal sheath
2. conductors of each circuit have insulation with a minimum
thickness of 0.25 mm
• From Grounded Metal
Clearance of uninsulated parts of field wiring
conductors connected to terminals and grounded metal or
other conducting wires shall be at least 3 mm.
 Grounding
• Intrinsically safe
apparatus, Enclosures,
and Raceways, if of metal
shall be connected to the
equipment grounding
conductor.
• Associated Apparatus and Cable Shield
• shall be grounded in accordance with the required
control drawing. (see equipment installation)
 Identification
• Terminals
• Intrinsically safe circuits shall be
identified at terminal and junction
locations to prevent unintentional
interference with the circuits
during testing and servicing.
• Wiring
• Shall be identified with permanently affixed labels with
the wording “ Intrinsic Safety Wiring “. Spacing
between labels shall not be more than 7500 mm.
• Color Coding
• shall be permitted to identify safe conductors where they are
colored light blue and where no other conductors colored
light blue are used.
5.5 Zone 0,1 and 2
Locations
 Classification of locations
• Locations shall be classified depending on the properties of the
flammable gases, flammable and combustible liquid produced-
vapors, combustible dust or fibers that could be present.
 Ignitable concentrations Ignitable concentrations Ignitable concentrations
of flammable gases or of flammable gases or of vapors can be
vapors vapors communicated

Class 1, Zone 0 Present continuously Present for a long period

Likely to exist under
Class 1, Zone 1 normal operating
conditions
of time
Exist frequently because of
repair or maintenance
operations or because of
leakage
Equipment is operated
on, of such nature that
equipment breakdown
could result in the release
of flammable gases or
vapors in a mode to cause
electrical equipment to
become source of ignition
Unless prevented by
adequate positive pressure
ventilation from a source
of clean air and effective
safeguards against
ventilation failure are
provided.

Not likely to occur in
Class 1, Zone 2 normal operation and if
they occur, will exist only
for a short period of time
Prevented by positive
mechanical ventilation but
may become hazardous due
to failure or abnormal
operation of ventilation
equipment.
Volatile flammable liquids,
gases, or vapors are
handheld. Normally
confined in closed
containers of closed
system which they can
only escape, only as a
Unless prevented by
adequate positive pressure
ventilation from a source
of clean air and effective
safeguards against
ventilation failure are
provided.
Atmospheres containing acetylene, hydrogen, or flammable gases and liquid-produced vapor, or combustible
liquid-produced vapor mixed with air that may burn or explode having either a maximum experimental safe
gap(MEG) or minimum igniting current (MIC)

MEG MIC

Group IIA ≤ 0.50 mm ≤ 0.45 mm

Group IIB > 0.50 mm and ≤ 0.90 mm > 0.45 mm and ≤ 0.80

Group IIC > 0.90 > 0.80

Article 5.5 Requires equipment construction and installation that
ensures safe performances under conditions of proper use and
maintenance
A. Implementation of Zone
Classification
- Inspection shall be performed by qualified persons
B. Dual Classification
- Class I, Zone 2 locations shall be permitted to abut, but not overlap
Class 1, Division 2 locations. Class I, Zone 0 or 1 locations shall not abut
Class I, Division 1 or 2.
C. Reclassification Permitted
- Class I, Division 1 or 2 location shall be permitted to be reclassified as a
Class I, Zone 0, Zone 1 or Zone 2 location.
D. Solid Obstacles
- Flameproof equipment with flanged joints shall not be installed closet
then distances shown in table 5.5.1.7 (D)

Gas Group Minimum Distance (mm)

IIC 40

IIB 30

IIA 10
E. Simultaneous Presence of Flammable
gases and Combustible Dusts or
fibers/flyings
- Simultaneous presence shall be considered during the selection and
installation
F. Available Short-Circuit Current for
Type of Protection “E”
- Unless listed and marked
- Type of protection “e” for wiring in Zone 1 shall be limited to 10,000
rms symmetrical Amperes to reduce ignition during short-circuit event
5.5.1.8 Protection Techniques
-Protection techniques shall be described in 5.5.1.8 (A) through (I)
A. Flameproof “d”
 Permitted for Class I, Zone 1 and 2
B. Pressurized
 Permitted for Class I, Zone 1 or 2
C. Intrinsic Safety “i”
 Permitted in Class I, Zone 0, 1 and 2
D. Type of protection “n”
- nA, nC, nR
- Permitted in Class I, Zone 2
E. Oil immersion “o”
 Permitted for Class 1, Zone 1 or 2

According to this protection method, all electrical parts are

submersed in either nonflammable or low-flammability oil,
F. Increased Safety “e”
 Permitted for class 1, Zone 1 or 2
G. Encapsulation “m”
 Permitted for Class 1, Zone 0,1,and 2
H. Powder filling “q”
 Permitted for class 1, Zone 1 or 2

This protection method is typically used only for small

transformers, capacitors and on electrical components
that have no moving parts. The protection consists of a
sealed enclosure (normally with a vent) containing quartz
sand (the origin of the “q” description), powder or glass
beads.
I. Combustible Gas Detection System
- Means of protection in industrial establishments with restricted public
access
- Supervision and installation by qualified persons only
1. Inadequate Ventilation
2. Interior of a building
3. Interior of a control panel
5.5.1.9 Equipment
A. Suitability
1. Equipment Listing or Labeling
2. Evidence of equipment evaluation from a qualified resting laboratory
or inspection agency concerned with product evaluation
B. Listing
 Equipment that is listed for Zone 0 shall be permitted in a Zone 1 or 2
location of the same gas or vapor
 Equipment shall be permitted to be listed for a specific gas or vapor, or
any specific combination of gases or vapor.
C. Marking
 Division Equipment be marked with following
1. Class I, Zone 1 or Class 1, Zone 2
2. Applicable gas classification group Table 5.5.1.9 (c)(1)(2)
3. Temperature Classification
Zone Equipment
 Be marked with the following
1. Class
2. Zone
3. Symbol “Aex”
4. Protection Technique Table 5.5.1.9 (D)(1)
5. Applicable material group Table 5.5.1.9 (c)(1)(2)
6. Temperature classification Table 5.5.1.9 (D)(1)
D. Class I Temperature
 Shall not exceed the auto ignition temperature of the specific gas or
vapor
E. Threading
 Supply connection entry thread form shall be NPT or metric
 Conduit fitting shall be made wrench tight to prevent sparkling when
fault current flows through conduit system
F. Optical Fiber Cables
 Shall be installed to address the associated fire hazard and sealed to
address associated explosion hazard.
Flexible Cables, Cords and Connections
Article 5.5.1.17
 Class 1, Zone 1 , 2
A type listed for extra-usage

Connected to terminals or to
supply conductors in an
approved manner
Flexible Cords used shall
comply with the ff:
Supported by clamps or
other suitable means

Cord entering an “e”

enclosure shall be
terminated with a cord
connector
 Instrumentation
Connection for Zone 2

Flexible cords, Current < 3A at 115V, nominal

attachment plugs,
and receptacle Receptacle with warning labels
shall be permitted
to be connected if: Power supply cord < 900mm
 Conductors and No uninsulated exposed
Conductor Insulation parts that operate at more
than 30 volts (15 volts in
wet locations)
For type “e” protection, field
wiring conductors shall be
Copper

Conductor
insulation shall be
protected with a
sheath of lead
5.5.1.26 PROCESS SEALING
PROCESS SEAL
• Is a device to prevent the migration of process fluids
from the designed containment into the external
electrical system
A suitable barrier that is A Drain or vent that can
subjected to upon prevent over pressuring
failure of the single the conduit or cable seal
process seal above 6in, water column
(1493 Pa)

Type MI Cable assembly ,

rated at not less than
125% of the process
pressure and maximum
process temperature
 Article 5.6
Zone 20,21,21

LOCATIONS FOR
COMBUSTIBLE DUST OR
IGNITIBLE
FIBERS/FLYINGS
 Protection by
Encapsulation “m”

Mixtures of combustible
dust and fibers are
protected by enclosing
them in a compound
that the explosive
atmosphere cannot be
ignited
 Protection by
Pressurization “p”

Explosive dust
atmosphere where
electrical apparatus
is provided with an
enclosure for dust
ingress protection.
 Protection by
Intrinsic safety “i”

Protection where
any spark or thermal
effect is incapable of
causing ignition
 Protection by
Enclosure “t”

Guards against
ingress of a mixture
of CD or F/F in air by
providing a
protective gas inside
the enclosure
(P above external atm.)
 Classification of locations
Zone 20
Ignitable concentration
of combustible dust or
ignitable fibers/flyings
are present
continuously or
present for a long
period of time
 Classification of locations
Ignitable concentration of because of
Zone 21 combustible dust or ignitable leakage
fibers/flyings are likely exist

occasionally
frequently because of repair
under normal and maintenance operation
operating conditions
 Classification of locations Dust or fibers/flyings
are normally
Zone 22 Ignitable confined w/n a
concentration of closed containers
combustible dust
or ignitable
fibers/flyings are
not likely to
occur or occur in
a short period of
time
5.6.1.6 Material groups
GROUP IIIC CLASS II, GROUP E

metal dust, including

aluminum,
magnesium, and
their commercial
alloys, or other
combustible dust.
 CLASS II, GROUP F
GROUP IIIB
and G
Carbon-aceous dusts
that have more than
8% total entrapped
volatiles.
 GROUP IIIA CLASS III
Sisal or henequen
Solid particles, Cocoa fiber
including
fibers
>500µm Hemp
nominal size.
5.6.1.7 Special Precaution
A. Implementation of Zone
Classification System

Classification of areas,
engineering and design,
selection of equipment and
wiring methods, installation,
and inspection shall be
performed by qualified
person
B. Dual Classification
• Areas within the same facility classified separately:

 Zone 22 Locations shall be permitted to abut, but not

overlap to Class II or III, Division 2 location

 Zone 20 or 21 locations shall not abut Class II or III,

Division 1 or 2 locations
C. Reclassification Permitted

 A Class II or III, Division 1 or 2 location shall be permitted

to be reclassified as a Zone 20,21 or 22 locations provided
that all of the space is reclassified under the
requirements of the article.
D. Simultaneous Presence of Flammable Gates
and Combustible Dust or Fiber/Flyings.

• Where flammable gases, Combustible Dust , or

fiber/flyings are or may be present at the same
time, The simultaneous presence shall be considered
during the selection and installation of electrical
equipment and wiring method.
5.6.1.8 Protection Techniques
5.6.1.9 Equipment
Requirements
Suitability
 Equipment listing
or Labeling

 Evidence of
equipment
evaluation from a
qualified testing
laboratory or
inspection agency
Listing
 Equipment listed for Zone
20 shall be permitted in
a Zone 21 or 22 Locations of
the same dust or ignitable
fiber/flying.

 Equipment listed for Zone

21 maybe used in a Zone
22 Location of the same dust
or ignitable fiber/flying.
 MARKING

Division Zone
Equipment Equipment
 Division Equipment
• Equipment identified for class II,
Division 1 or Class II, Division 2
shall be permitted to be
marked with all of the ff:

Zone 20,21 or 22 (if applicable)

Material Group

Maximum Surface temperature

 Zone Equipment
• Equipment meeting one or more of the protection techniques
shall be marked with the following in the order shown:
 Zone
 Symbol “AEx”
 Protection Technique
 Material Group
 Max. Surface Temperature
 Ambient Temperature
 Temperature Classification
Electrical equipment designed for
use in the ambient temp. range
between -25℃ to +40℃ shall
require no ambient temp.
marking.

- Other than -25℃ to +40℃, The

marking shall specify the special
range of amb. Temp. and shall
include either the symbol “Ta” or
“Tamb.
• Sealing
seals shall be provided to
protect the ingress of
combustible dust or ignitible
fibers/flying, or to maintain
the type of protection.
Equipment Installation
 Only equipment Exception no. 1 Exception no. 1 Exception no. 2
listed and
marked as Equipment listed for use in Apparatus listed for use in Pressurized equipment
suitable for the Class II, Division 1 locations Class II, Division 1 locations identified for Class II,
location shall be with a suitable temperature with a suitable temperature Division 1 or Class II,
permitted class shall be permitted class shall be permitted Division 1 or Division 2

Zone 20

Zone 21

Zone 22
 Temperature
• The temperature marking specified in 5.6.1.9 (C)(2)(5) shall comply:
Temperature Marking

Combustible dust Less than the lower of either the layer or cloud
ignition temperature of specific combustible dust

Organic dust that may dehydrate or carbonize Shall not exceed lower of either the ignition
temperature or 165° C

Ignitible fibers/flying Less than 165° C for equipment not subjected to

overloading or 120° C for equipment such as motors
or power transformer that may overload
 Grounding and Bonding
• Bonding
• Locknut-bushing and double-locknut types of contacts shall
not be depended on for bonding purposes.

Locknut-bushing double-locknut
 • Bonding jumpers with proper fittings or other approved means of
bonding shall be used.

Bonding jumpers
• Types of Equipment
Grounding Conductors

• Liquidtight flexible
metal conduit shall
include an equipment
bonding jumper of the
wire type in compliance
with 2.50.5.13
• Exception
In Zone 22 locations, the bonding jumper shall be permitted to
be deleted where all of the ff. conditions are met:
1. Listed liquidtight flexible metal conduit 1800 mm or less
in length, with fittings listed for grounding is used
2.Overcurrent protection in the circuit is limited to 10
amperes or less
3.The load is not a power utilization load
 5.11 Commercial Garages, Repair and Storage

• Scope
The occupancies shall include locations
used for service and repair operations in
connection with self-propelled vehicles
(including but not limited to, passenger
automobiles, buses, trucks and tractors in
which volatile flammable liquids or
flammable gases are used for fuel or power.
 Area Classification, General
• Parking Garages
• Parking garages used for parking or storage shall be permitted to be unclassified
• Repair Garages, With
Dispensing
Minor and major repair garages
that dispense motor fuels into the
fuel tanks of vehicles, including
flammable liquids having a flash
point below 38° C. Where Class I
liquids are dispensed, the area
within 900 mm of dispensing point
shall be Class I, Division 2 location.
• Repair Garages, Major and Minor
Where vehicles using lighter-than air gaseous fuels are repaired or stored, hazardous
area classification guidance found in table 5.11.1.3 (D).
• Modifications to Classification
1.Specific Areas Adjacent to Classified Locations
in which flammable vapors are not likely to
be released, such as stock rooms, switchboard
rooms, and other similar locations shall be
unclassified where mechanically ventilated at rate
of four or more air changes per hour

stock rooms
2. Alcohol-Based Windshield Washer Fluid
Shall be unclassified unless otherwise classified by a provision of 5.11.1.13
 Wiring and Equipment in Class 1 Locations

• Wiring
Shall conform to applicable provision of article 5.1
• Equipment
Shall conform to applicable provisions of article 5.1
1. Fuel-Dispensing Unit
Located within building , the requirements of article 5.14 shall govern. Where
mechanical ventilation is provided in the dispensing area, the control shall be interlocked
so that the dispenser cannot operate without ventilation.
 2. Portable Lighting Equipment
shall be equipped with handle, lampholder,
hook, and substantial guard attached to
the lampholder or handle.
All exterior surfaces that might come in
contact with battery terminals, wiring
terminals, or other objects shall be of non
conducting material or protected with
insulation
Shall be unswitched type
Wiring and Equipment Installed Above Class I
Locations
• Wiring
1. Fixed Wiring
Shall be in metal raceways, rigid non metallic
conduit, electrical nonmetallic tubing, flexible
metal conduit, or liquid tight flexible metal
conduit, liquid tight flexible non metallic
conduit, or shall be Type MC, AC, MI or
PLTC cable
2. Pendant
Flexible cord suitable for the type of service and listed for hard usage shall be
used.
Equipment

1.Fixed Electrical
Equipment
Shall be located above
the level of any defined
Class I location or shall
be identified for the
location.
• a. arcing equipment that is less than 3700 mm above
floor level and that may produce arcs, sparks or particles
of hot metals shall be totally enclosed type or
constructed.
b. fixed lighting

Lamps and lamp holders that is located over lanes through

which vehicles are commonly driven shall be located not
less than 3700 mm above floor level, unless if totally
enclosed type or constructed.
 Underground Wiring

Shall be installed in threaded

rigid metal conduit or
intermediate metal conduit
 Special Equipment
• Battery Charging
Equipment
Shall not be located within
locations classified in
5.11.1.3
• Electric Vehicle Charging Equipment
 Connector Location
No connector shall be located within a Class 1
location
 Plug Connection to Vehicles
where cord is suspended
from overhead, it shall be
arranged so that the lowest point
sag is at least 150 mm above the
floor.
 Ground-fault Circuit- Interrupter Protection
for Personnel
• All 125 volt and 250 volt, single
phase, 15 and 20 ampere
receptacles installed in areas where
electrical diagnostic equipment,
electrical hand tools or portable
lighting equipment are to be used shall
have GFCI protection for personnel
 Grounding and Bonding Requirements

• General Grounding Requirements

All metals raceways, metal armor or metallic sheath on
cables and all non current-carrying metal parts of fixed
or portable electric equipment, regardless of voltage,
shall be grounded.
 Supplying Circuits with Grounded and
Grounding Conductors in Class I locations
• Circuit Supplying Portable Equipment or
Pendants
Receptacles, attachment plugs, connectors, and
similar devices shall be of grounding type and
grounded conductor of flexible cord shall be
connected to the screw shell of any lampholder
or to the grounded terminal of any utilization
equipment supplied.
• Approved Means
Shall be provided for maintaining continuity of the equipment grounding
conductor between fixed wiring system and non current-carrying metal
portions of pendant luminaires, portable luminaires, and portable utilization
equipment.
 5.13 Aircraft Hangars

• Scope
Shall apply to buildings or structures
in any part of which aircraft
containing Class I liquids or Class II
liquids whose temperatures are above
their flash points are housed or stored
and in which aircraft night undergo
service, repairs, or alterations
 Classifications of Locations
• Below floor level
Any pit or
depression below the
level of hangar floor
shall be classified as
Class I, Division 1 or
Zone 1 location
• Areas Not Cut Off or Ventilated
The entire area of the hangar
including any adjacent and
communicating areas not suitably
cut off from the hangar, shall be
classified as a Class I, Division 2 or
Zone 2 location up to level 450
mm above the floor.
 Vicinity Aircraft
Aircraft Maintenance and Storage
Hangars

The area 1500 mm horizontally from

aircraft power plants or aircraft fuel
tanks shall be classified as a Class I,
Division 2 or Zone 2 location that shall
extend upward from the floor to a level
1500 mm above the upper surface of
wings and of engine enclosures.
• Aircraft Painting Hangars
The area within 3000 mm
horizontally from aircraft
surfaces from the floor to 3000
mm above the aircraft shall be
classified as Class I, Division I
or Class I, Zone 1

The area horizontally from

aircraft surfaces between 3000
mm and 9000 mm from the
floor to 9000 mm above aircraft
shall be classified as Class I,
Division 2 or Class I, Zone 2
• Areas Suitably Cut Off and Ventilated
Adjacent areas in which flammable
liquids or vapors are not likely to be
released, such as stock rooms, electrical
control rooms, and other similar
locations shall be unclassified where
adequately ventilated and where
effectively cut off from the hangar itself
by walls or partitions.