Global installation of intrinsically safe and nonincendive systems

Summary form only given as follows. With technology rapidly advancing, new developments in sensing and process control have increased the number of products using intrinsically safe or nonincendive circuits as their protection technique for hazardous (classified) locations as defined in the National Electrical Code (NEC), Canadian Electrical Code (CEC), and IEC/CENELEC installation requirements. With lower installation and maintenance costs, these protection techniques have found increased favor in applications traditionally requiring explosion proof/flameproof devices. Though these concepts have been in use in industry for many years, some confusion still exists in regards to the installation of these devices. Following the proper installation requirements is important to the overall safety of intrinsically safe and nonincendive circuits. The incorrect installation of intrinsically safe and nonincendive circuits can result in a system that could become ignition capable. Therefore, care must be exercised when determining the suitability of the combinations of associated apparatus and field devices. Furthermore, it is necessary to follow the applicable requirements in the NEC, CEC, and IEC/CENELEG installation requirements concerning grounding, wiring, separation and identification. The control drawing provided with each piece of equipment provides the necessary information to determine the acceptability of the installation.