Hazardous-area classification, explained
Hazardous-area classification explained: zones, divisions and what buyers must confirm for their own site. Pure explainer; no model applicability is claimed.
A general explainer, not a product claim
This page explains hazardous-area classification concepts in general terms. It does not state that any model on this site is suitable for any zone or division, and it does not present any product as meeting any standard. Classification of a real site, and the suitability of a particular device for that site, are questions for the site operator and the device supplier to confirm together before ordering.
Zones and divisions
Classification systems describe how often a flammable atmosphere is present. In the zone system, Zone 0 covers areas where a flammable atmosphere is present continuously or for long periods; Zone 1 covers areas where it is likely to occur in normal operation; Zone 2 covers areas where it is not likely to occur in normal operation, and if it does, only for a short period. In the division system used in North America, Division 1 covers areas where a flammable atmosphere is present under normal operating conditions or frequently, and Division 2 covers areas where it is present only under abnormal conditions. The two systems describe the same underlying idea with different boundaries, and a site classified under one system is not automatically classified under the other.
Why buyers must confirm per site
Three things decide whether a device belongs on a site: the site's own classification, the device's marking and scope for the target market, and the site's operating procedures. None of those three can be read off a product category name. A phone, tablet or terminal sold for "hazardous areas" in general may still be wrong for a particular zone, a particular gas group or a particular temperature class. That is why every page on this site asks buyers to confirm certification scope and marking for their target market before ordering, and to confirm the applicable hazardous-area classification for their site before ordering.
What to put in the quote request
Send the site classification, the gas or dust group if known, the temperature requirements and the target market, and ask the supplier to confirm which listed configuration matches. Certificates available upon request. Related: before-you-order checklist, contact page.