“LIKE FOR LIKE” - Hazardous Areas Equipment
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When it comes to Electrical Equipment in Hazardous Areas (EEHA) there are times when we are asked what is “like for like”, this usually occurs when equipment is disconnected or removed from a hazardous area and its being reconnected or energised again.
In terms of EEHA the following would apply, some conditions which can be used to test the like for like theory are:
- Equipment make the same
- Equipment model the same
- Same Certification
- Electrical characteristics are the same i.e. voltage, frequency, current
- Protection technique is the same
- Cabling has not been changed
- Circuit protection not changed
- Equipment has been repaired by an accredited workshop
If the above matches, then the equipment is most likely “like for like”.
Where we see it getting confusing is when
- The equipment model changes due to the existing model being obsolete
- A new piece of equipment is installed which is different to that being replaced
- The cabling is being upgraded
- Another protection technique is being used on the new make/model
Things which have no bearing on like for like
- Replacing the glands/Adaptors/Bungs to a different brand
- Putting equipment tags on the equipment
- Electrical tests come back different to previous tests
Although the Electrical Safety Legalisation require an Audit to be performed on EEHA before it is reconnected if the equipment is “Like for Like” then an auditor is not required to inspect the installation, as long as you have demonstrate that the equipment is electrically safe.
If the equipment to be installed has different specifications, like:
- Different protection techniques
- Requires new circuits be to run
- Electrical characteristics are different to that is being replace
Then it doesn’t pass the test and is most likely not like for like and further action is required including getting the installation audited by and Accredited Auditor.
This material is produced by HAZ. The information is of a general nature only and should not be relied upon. Each set of circumstances associated with compliance of hazardous areas and Type B compliance is unique and expert advice on your particular circumstances should be sought. HAZ accepts no liability for any reliance on the information published on this website.