Typical Problems Encounted During Ex d Inspection

Published 2 Apr '19
Read Time: 5 mins

Throughout any inspection campaign non-compliant issues are going to be found. Here are some common issues we have found whilst conducting inspections on flameproof equipment.

• Documentation missing or incorrect
• Certificate of Conformity not read
• Incorrect Group for hazardous area classification
• Incorrect Ambient Temperature range for local ambient temperature (and Temperature Classification not derated to allow operation at higher ambient temperatures)
• Incorrect Temperature Classification for hazardous area classification
• Incorrect Zone – Zones 1 and 2 only
• Missing enclosure bolts
• Enclosure bolts replaced with ones made of different materials, having different threads or tensile strengths – or there are different bolts on the same enclosure
• Corrosion or damage to flamepath or the equipment
• Enclosure covered opened with screwdrivers
• Incorrect or missing certification and identification labels
• Incorrect equipotential bonding and/or no earthing
• Painting over of breathers / vents / flame paths
• Cable glands and stopping plugs not appropriate
• Excessive quantity or wrong type of tape used to protect the flame path
• Breathing devices and drains uncertified
• Equipment installed with flamepath too close to an obstruction – Closer than these distances: IIA = 10mm; IIB = 30 mm; IIC = 40mm
• Incorrect grease used (check with client – they may have a preferred type: e.g. Dow Corning Compound 4)
• Cable damage
• Evidence of internal ignition
• Damaged window or terminal compartment
• Uncertified or incorrectly certified enclosures/equipment installed in the hazardous area and no Conformity Assessment Document
• Component certified enclosure has been installed with equipment installed within it, and no Fitness for Purpose or other report has been raised

What others can you think of?

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.