What hazardous-area compliance actually involves — the standards, the zones, the dossier and the sign-off — in plain language.
Walk down the plant; find every source that can release flammable gas or combustible dust.
Determine zones and produce classification diagrams to AS/NZS 60079.
Make the installation match its classification — Ex equipment, wiring and barriers.
Independent EEHA inspection confirms the installation is compliant.
Compile the verification dossier and issue final sign-off.
The core standard for explosive atmospheres. It defines how areas are classified into zones, what protection techniques equipment must use, and how installations are inspected and maintained. Part 10 covers area classification; Part 14 covers design and installation; Part 17 covers inspection.
The competency and practice framework for electrical work in classified areas. An EEHA-competent inspector is qualified to inspect Ex installations and confirm they meet the standard. When your insurer asks who signed off your installation, this is the credential that matters.
The international certification scheme for Ex equipment and personnel. Equipment carrying an Ex marking has been certified for use in a specific type of hazardous atmosphere — and part of our job is confirming the equipment on your site actually matches the zone it sits in.
A hazardous area is graded by how likely an explosive atmosphere is to be present. For gases and vapours, and separately for combustible dusts:
Each zone dictates what protection level of equipment is acceptable. Get the zone wrong and you either overspend on equipment you don't need — or, far worse, install equipment that can't safely be there.
The verification dossier is the single record that proves your plant is compliant. We compile and maintain it so you can produce it on demand. It typically contains:
A dossier is a living document. Every modification, repair and periodic inspection should update it. We can hold and maintain yours as part of an ongoing compliance relationship, so it's always current when an auditor calls.