Lighting is not only used to beautify the working area; it also ensures a certain level of security. Whether you are in Zone 0, where flammable vapours/dust/fibre are continuously present, or Zone 1, where flammable gas may occur under normal conditions, everything, even the lighting systems, has to be chosen with precision. The current blog will however provide extensive information about the lighting requirements in Zone 0 and Zone 1. So do not worry about the technical terms; it is time for you to start making your hazardous areas as safe as possible!
1) Basic understanding of Zone 0 and Zone 1 locations
In order to ensure safety in hazardous environments, ATEX (European standards) and IECEx (International standards) employ zoning systems to separate different areas based on how often the workers are likely to come into contact with dangerous substances. In such areas, there are more chances of explosions. Therefore, it is necessary to enclose or take precautionary measures with regard to all such installations, like the lighting, to prevent any instances of ignition. Let us briefly tackle Zone 0 and Zone 1.
i) Zone 0
“Zone 0 is a location where flammable gas or vapour is present for almost all of the time.”
Then, if you are working in such areas, you have to be very careful because there is a constant danger of combustion. To achieve this, it is very critical to make use of tools and gadgets that can be able to endure such environments without producing or causing any heat. So, here are a few examples that could assist you regarding such zones.
- Within Fuel Tanks or Containers
- With Fuels or Chemical Transport Tanker Ships
- With the Chemical Reactors in the Chemical Facility
- Oil Drilling bone storage compartment with methane gas
- With the pipes or storm drains that allow the flow of combustible liquids
ii) Zone 1
“Zone 1 describes places where the risk of occurrence of flammable gases and/or flammable vapors exist for a limited period of time under normal operating conditions.”
Even though these zones are not as risky as zone 0, the need for caution still has to be exercised as any such situation could still arise and result in an explosion. Let us consider the real-world examples that can be illustrated as zone 1.
- Areas within Oil Refinery Equipment
- In meticulous Spray Application Booths
- Near Wellheads on Offshore Oil Rigs
- In the vicinity of fuel pumps or gas stations
- Near solvent valves and pipe Joints in the processes of chemical equipment
2) Why do I need specific lighting in Zone 0 and Zone 1?
You need other specific lighting equipment in Zone 0 and Zone 1 for various reasons. For example;
Zone 0 and Zone 1 are dangerous because of the presence of flammable gases/vapours/dust. Ordinary lighting is highly discouraged in those places as even a small source of ignition is enough to cause the combustion of materials leading to an explosion.
You know methane gas is mostly present in zones 1 and 2. It boils at—161.5 degrees Celsius, so gas gets out, and then there are chances of an explosion occurring. Similarly, propane has a boiling point of -42 degrees celsius with a flammability limit of 3 98% concentration in air. Hence, it can also be ignited easily of course if improper lighting is used.
For that reason, there are special lights designed for such hazardous situations, which protect the workers and assist the companies in meeting the requirements of AETX and IECEx safety standards.
Finally, it is reasonable to suggest that specific illuminators in zones identified as hazardous ( zone 0 & zone 1 ) are warranted for safety reasons. This helps to prevent explosions, protect people, and meet the appealing safety standards of the plants.
3) What are the requirements for selecting the right lighting for zone 0 and zone 1?
In order to select the correct lighting for Zones 0 and 1, it is imperative to pay attention to a few factors in order to avoid explosion or fire. So, let’s have a look!
i) Selecting the particular type of lighting apparatus
Zone 0: For example, if you are in zone 0, where flammable products are always available, you will use specially designed lighting equipment that is intrinsically safe. These fixtures utilise very low current consumption and operate at low temperatures to prevent overheating. Equipment used in zone 0, as marked by Aetex, was marked as having Exia (intrinsic safety) or ma ex (oil-filled) guarding areas.
Zone 1: You have to provide expulsion-proof light fittings with protective covers. AETX/IECEx marked such lights as Ex ib zone type bulb lights which are manufactured purposely for zone 1. Such lights are made of materials used for heat-resistant lightning fixtures, which are durable. For example, 1510 Degrees Celsius for stainless steel and 660 Celsius Degree for aluminium. As a result, it does not possibly catch fire that fast and that’s why they are made for such cases.
ii) Ingress Protection (IP) Ratings
Zone 0: You must ensure the use of lighting components with a protection rating of at least IP66. This level of protection is crucial for preventing equipment contamination and ensuring that frequent, unnecessary breakdowns do not occur during operation.
Zone 1: IP65 and above fittings are required. They protect such from dust and onward low pressure spraying water jets. They also aid in doing active operations even if such unfriendly operational conditions prevail and hence adequate lighting even at drunken times is provided still.
iii) Compliance with Standards
It is necessary for requirements of the ATEX Directive 2014/34/EU and the IEC 60079 to be obeyed concerning the lighting equipment for both Zone 0 and Zone 1. By adhering to these guidelines, it helps escape the dangers that are associated with the usage of exceptional appliances outside in a dangerous area. thus keeping that employee at ease while performing their duties.
iv) Regular Maintenance
It is necessary to apply maintenance with foresight and mind that the two zones will be safe at some point in the future. Such inspections will assist you in detecting any potential issues, thus ensuring that the lighting is kept in optimal condition. Your environmental focus can be another aspect, which is a caution that should not be ignored, and for this, some routine checking will help.
4) Conclusion
In view of everything mentioned above, it can be concluded that the correct choice of lighting in zones 0 and 1 is indispensable for your safety and the safety of munitions, such as machines. You have now been taken through all the basic requirements; it is, therefore, time to inspect your lighting and replace some, if not all, of your lighting system with better alternatives.
But there is good news for you. For example, you can purchase very dependable and certified lightning fixtures from Hexlon manufacturer. They have been in the production line of explosion-proof lighting products and many other safety technologies for 17 years. Furthermore, all their products are certified by ATEX and IECEx. So, do not waste time and use their products for your own safety.
