Inspection, maintenance and testing of electrical equipment for use in potentially explosive atmospheres

Electrical apparatus for use in potentially explosive atmospheres is specially constructed, tested and certified to reduce the risk that it could be the source of an incendive spark. It has built into it physical features which make it acceptable for use in areas classified as having potentially explosive atmospheres. In an ideal world, once the equipment has been installed correctly it would stay that way forever. Unfortunately, in practice, equipment is subject to corrosion, vibration, accidental damage and a dozen other factors which affect its integrity. It is, therefore, necessary to ensure that the features provided to obviate the creation of ignition (capable sparks or hot surfaces) are maintained in a satisfactory condition. The authors describe an inspection system which records any faults found, plus any subsequent repairs. By analysing the numbers and types of faults found the effectiveness of the inspection system, and the suitability of the apparatus, can be monitored