Understanding Hazardous Locations Class/Division vs. Class/Zone in North America

North American manufacturers are often not familiar with the acceptable industry regulations as they relate to hazardous locations, making it quite challenging for many to fully understand these standards in recent years.

By utilizing the IECEx and applying the national differences, North American manufactured products can become certified and accepted under the Code of Federal Regulations. But it’s important to understand how to effectively navigate the path to certification and the options you may face along the way.

In order to gain access to the North American market, it’s critical to fully understand these basic requirements and properly identify the difference in Class/Division versus Class/Zone paths for certification of products used within Hazardous Locations.

About the presenter

Mike Barrett
Explosion Protection Business Unit Manager

In the TIC (Testing, Inspection, Certification) Industry specializing in Explosion Protection for electrical and non-electrical industrial products. Mike is passionate about bringing products to market and working closely with customers gaining market share in equipment for potentially explosive atmospheres. Being a mechanical engineer with a background in design, Mike brings a unique perspective to a laboratory saturated with electrical engineers. This allows for flexibility in various equipment including non-electrical products. Recently, Mike joined the UL STP (Standards Technical Panel) as a Testing and Standards Organization Voting Member for Electrical Equipment for Hazardous (Classified) Locations. Mike believes the harmonization of the international standards will allow for clearer requirements for equipment targeting multiple markets globally.