The evoloution of a “hybrid” system by integrating the best concepts from the NEC®, CEC® and IEC®

North American codes and standards that deal with hazardous (classified) locations have adapted elements of International Standards to take advantage of the best in global technologies for cost effective solutions without compromising the integrity, reliability, and safety of electrical installations and systems. The Canadian system effectively mandates the Zone method of area classification for new installations, while the NEC permits users to choose either the Division or Zone method. Many Canadian Petrochemical users have selectively applied global products and wiring methods to new installations, effectively creating a unique blended system, which combines the best of the traditional North American and International approaches. In developing this approach, users have seen significant reductions in installation costs. Some examples include modularization using plug-and-play wiring systems for heat tracing, lighting systems, and power distribution, basket tray, hybrid panel boards and modular construction (re-locatable structures/buildings and packaged equipment). While many of these concepts were initiated for material and labour installed cost efficiencies, they have ultimately yielded in significant reliability, maintainability and safety enhancements recognized afterwards. Although the concepts discussed originally evolved for hazardous location applications, similar concepts can and are applied in non-hazardous locations. This paper will discuss the elements of developing this hybrid approach in terms of global technology equipment designs and wiring practices which are enabling the petrochemical industry to capitalize on the economies of global production efficiencies, while controlling the integrity, reliability, and safety of its electrical systems in hazardous classified areas.