Explosion proof lighting is a great way to mitigate explosive dangers and enhance the safety of workers. Most industrial experts understand the importance of having proof lighting on premises. Read on to discover more about how explosion proof lighting works.
Businesses that operate in hazardous environments require explosion proof lighting to mitigate any potential risk. Such settings include chemical plants, oil refineries, and food processing industries. These premises have dangerous gases and vapors such as propane and methane that are highly prone to causing explosions. Explosion proof lighting helps protect your business and the safety of your employees.
Nonetheless, you need to clearly understand explosion proof lighting and its differences from typical lighting fixtures. Read on to discover more about explosion proof lighting and how it can help you improve the safety of your business.
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What is explosion proof lighting?
Explosion proof lighting helps contain sparks that are highly susceptible to causing flames and explosions when in contact with dangerous gases. The lighting fixture has a thick frame made using solid materials such as steel and aluminum. Durable explosion proof work light has robust lenses that withstand harsh working environments and be less prone to cracks.
In addition, explosion proof lighting with a sturdy casing and durable lenses minimizes the risk of explosions compared to standard lighting fixtures. It ensures that your working environment has mitigated the risk of explosions and your employees are safe.
Classifications of explosion proof lighting
There are three classes of explosion proof light, namely Class I, Class II, and Class III. These classes help to differentiate the explosion proof lights. Below is a discussion of the classes and their divisions:
Class l
- Division 1
The ignitable concentrations (flammable gases, vapors, and liquids) are frequent within the atmosphere during normal operating conditions.
- Division 2
The ignitable concentrations (flammable gases, vapors, and liquids) are present within abnormal operating conditions.
Class II
- Division 1
The ignitable concentrations (combustible dust) are present in the atmosphere during normal operating conditions.
- Division 2
The ignitable concentrations (combustible dust) are present in the atmosphere during abnormal operating conditions.
Class III
- Division 1
Here, ignitable materials are present in the atmosphere during normal operating conditions.
- Division 2
The ignitable materials are present in the atmosphere during abnormal operating conditions.
Benefits of explosion proof lighting
According to ResearchGate, using explosion proof lighting poses numerous benefits over conventional lighting fixtures. Below are the advantages of installing explosion proof lighting in hazardous environments over traditional lighting:
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Energy saving
Even though lighting is imperative in mitigating potential dangers, you need to work with fixtures that save energy. Explosion proof lighting has outweighed conventional lighting as they consume 90% less energy. It is vital to save on energy costs to maintain utmost safety on your premises.
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Durability
The construction of explosion proof lighting utilizes sturdy materials and robust lenses. Such features upgrade the durability of explosion proof lighting and lengthen the usage time. The typical origination level is 50,000 hours, while some can last 100,000 hours. You will experience longer lifespans than the traditional lighting fixtures. Explosion proof lighting durability minimizes the operating cost as you will have better efficiency and minimal maintenance costs.
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Reducing explosion risks
Standard lighting features cannot match the efficiency demonstrated by explosion proof lighting. This is because explosion proof lighting reduces the potential risk of explosion in confined environments. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), all lighting equipment located in hazardous environments should be fitted with explosion proof lighting.
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Eco-friendly
Despite being energy-saving and durable, explosion proof lighting is eco-friendly. It does not contain harmful contents such as mercury and lead that negatively impact the environment. By using explosion proof lighting, you will enhance safety and help protect the environment.
Explosion proof lighting has outweighed the conventional lighting fixtures. It offers numerous benefits in hazardous environments and enhances the safety of your workers. In addition, it provides better results in confined environments that have low visibility and mobility.
When running a business or living in a residential area that poses a significant risk of explosion, always consider installing explosion proof lighting. The fixtures are durable, cost-effective, and ensure that you carry out your day-to-day activities without worries.
