What is IEC 60079-35-2:2014?

IEC 60079-35-2:2014 is an International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) standard that specifies the requirements for the design, construction, and testing of electrical equipment in hazardous areas. These areas are known for the presence of potentially explosive atmospheres, such as those containing flammable gases, vapors, or dust.

The Scope and Purpose of IEC 60079-35-2:2014

This standard focuses on the safety aspects of electrical equipment intended to be used in hazardous locations, where the risk of explosion is a significant concern. It provides manufacturers, regulators, and users with guidelines to ensure that electrical equipment can be operated safely in such environments, minimizing the potential for ignition sources and reducing the risks associated with explosive atmospheres.

Key Requirements of IEC 60079-35-2:2014

IEC 60079-35-2:2014 covers various important aspects related to electrical devices used in hazardous locations. Some of the key requirements include:

Markings: The standard specifies the necessary markings that should be present on the equipment to indicate its suitability for use in hazardous areas. These markings provide crucial information about the level of protection provided.

Construction: The standard outlines specific design and construction requirements to ensure that electrical equipment is robust and capable of withstanding the potentially harsh conditions present in hazardous areas. This includes measures to prevent the ingress of dust, gas, or vapor that could trigger an explosion.

Testing and Performance: IEC 60079-35-2:2014 details the testing procedures and performance criteria that electrical equipment must meet to comply with the standard. This includes various environmental tests, such as temperature, humidity, and mechanical stress, to verify the equipment's reliability in hazardous areas.

Benefits of Complying with IEC 60079-35-2:2014

Adhering to IEC 60079-35-2:2014 offers several advantages to manufacturers, regulators, and end-users:

Enhanced Safety: Compliance with this standard ensures that electrical equipment is designed to minimize the risk of ignition sources, thus significantly reducing the potential for explosions in hazardous areas.

Global Acceptance: The IEC standards are recognized and widely adopted internationally. Complying with IEC 60079-35-2:2014 allows manufacturers to demonstrate conformity and gain access to global markets.

Regulatory Compliance: Many countries have legislation mandating compliance with specific safety standards for hazardous locations. By following IEC 60079-35-2:2014, manufacturers can ensure their products meet these regulatory requirements.

Risk Mitigation: End-users benefit from using electrical equipment that complies with this standard, as it reduces the potential for accidents, injuries, and property damage caused by explosions in hazardous environments.

In conclusion, IEC 60079-35-2:2014 plays a critical role in promoting safety in hazardous areas. Its comprehensive guidelines and requirements ensure that electrical equipment is designed, constructed, and tested to minimize the risks associated with explosive atmospheres. Adhering to this standard provides numerous benefits, including enhanced safety, global acceptance, regulatory compliance, and risk mitigation.