AS 2430.

11987

Australian Standard
Classification of hazardous areas

Accessed by CLOUGH ENGINEERING on 28 Mar 2002

Part 1: Explosive gas atmospheres

This Australian standard was prepared by Committee MS/11, Classification of

Hazardous Areas. It was approved on behalf of the Council of the Standards
Association of Australia on 9 December 1986 and published on 2 February 1987.

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The following interests are represented on Committee MS/11:

Australian Electrical and Electronic Manufacturers Association
Australian Gas Association
Australian Institute of Petroleum
Australian Liquefied Petroleum Gas Association
Confederation of Australian Industry
Department of Defence
Department of Labour, Vic.
Department of Industrial Relations, N.S.W.
Department of Mines, Qld
Electricity Supply Association of Australia
Grain Handling authority of N.S.W.
Insurance Council of Australia
Royal Australian Chemical Institute
State electricity regulatory authorities
The Pipeline Authority

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AS 2430.11987

Australian Standard
Classification of hazardous areas
Part 1: Explosive gas atmospheres

Accessed by CLOUGH ENGINEERING on 28 Mar 2002

First published . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Second edition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Third edition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1981
1982
1987

PUBLISHED BY STANDARDS AUSTRALIA

(STANDARDS ASSOCIATION OF AUSTRALIA)
1 THE CRESCENT, HOMEBUSH, NSW 2140
ISBN 0 7262 4493 7

AS 2430.11987

PREFACE
This edition of this standard was prepared by the Associations Committee on
Classification of Hazardous Locations to supersede AS 2430, Part 11982. The
standard is intended for the guidance of industry and relevant statutory authorities
concerned with the classification of hazardous areas. It is Part 1 of a series dealing
with specified hazardous atmospheres.
This standard deals with the classification of hazardous areas according to the
probability of the existence of an explosive mixture of gas, vapour or mist with air in
the atmosphere.
The content of this standard is solely concerned with the classification of hazardous
areas and not with the types of equipment or ignition sources which can be used in
such areas. Such types of equipment are covered in standards published by the specific
technology group, i.e. electrical, mechanical, gas, chemical.
In its terminology, definitions and general treatment of the subject, this standard is
similar to the following report issued by the International Electrotechnical
Commission:
IEC 79 Electrical Apparatus for Explosive Gas Atmospheres
Part 10: Classification of Hazardous Areas
The major changes between this standard and the previous edition are as follows:
(a) Closer alignment with IEC 79-10.
(b) The addition of some important clarifications in the Scope and Application
Clauses.
(c) The elimination of the two time criterion methods for determining hazardous
areas and distinguishing between Zones 0, 1 and 2.
(d) The removal of the specific occupancy Appendix from this standard. (It is now
published as AS 2430, Part 3.)

CONTENTS

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Page
FOREWORD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9

SCOPE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
APPLICATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
REFERENCED DOCUMENTS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
DEFINITIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
GENERAL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
BASIC PRINCIPLES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
DETERMINATION OF THE TYPE AND EXTENT OF ZONES . . . . .
VENTILATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
PROPERTIES OF FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS, GASES AND VOLATILE
SOLIDS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

4
4
4
4
5
5
7
8

APPENDIX A. SOURCES OF RELEASE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

10

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AS 2430.11987

FOREWORD

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Many gases, vapours and dusts which are generated processed, handled and stored in
industry are combustible. When ignited they may burn rapidly and with considerable
explosive force if mixed with air in the appropriate proportions.
Areas where gases and vapours, dusts, flyings the fibres occur in dangerous quantities
are classified as hazardous. This standard deals with the zonal classification of
hazardous areas where explosive gas atmospheres are present. For classification of
combustible dust areas, refer to AS 2430, Part 2.
The word zone is internationally accepted as indicating the probability of the
presence of a flammable, combustible or explodable material, and the extent,
dimension, shape of hazardous area and volume in which the hazardous material can
be expected.
This standard covers the following zones:
ZONE 0:
In which an explosive gas atmosphere is present continuously, or is
present for long periods.
ZONE 1:
In which an explosive gas atmosphere is likely to occur in normal
operation.
ZONE 2:
In which an explosive gas atmosphere is likely to occur in normal
operation and if it does occur it will exist for a short period only.
The area classification should be carried out by those who have full knowledge both
of the processes, systems and equipment concerned and of safety and personnel. The
agreement reached on the area classification should be formally recorded.
The properties (which are relevant to area classification) of all process materials
should be listed and should include flashpoint, boiling point, melting point, ignition
temperature, ignition energy, vapour pressure, vapour density and flammability limits.
The initial step is to decide if a process item contains flammable material and if a
release can occur. The procedure outlined herein should be applied to each item of
equipment. The type and extent of the zonal areas can then be established.

AS 2430.11987

STANDARDS ASSOCIATION OF AUSTRALIA

Australian Standard
for
CLASSIFICATION OF HAZARDOUS AREAS
PART 1

EXPLOSIVE GAS ATMOSPHERES

1 SCOPE. This standard provides guidance for the

classification of hazardous areas according to the
existence of or likelihood of the existence of an explosive
gas/air mixture.
NOTE: Areas classified as Zones 0, 1 or 2 in accordance with this
standard are sometimes referred to as Class I areas.

It applies to open and enclosed areas, in all above-ground

situations, where there may be a risk due to the presence
of flammable gas or vapour mixed with air under normal
atmosphere conditions (see Note 1).
This standard does not apply to
(a) underground workings including coal mining;
(b) processing and manufacture of explosives;
(c) areas which may be affected by oxygen enrichment;
(d) areas where risks may arise due to the presence of
combustible dusts (see Note 3); or
(e) potential catastrophic failures such as the bursting of
pressure vessels, pipelines or tanks.
NOTES:
1. Normal atmospheric conditions include variations above and
below reference levels of 101.3 kPa and 20C provided the
variations have a negligible effect on the explosion properties of
the flammable materials.
2. The design, construction and installation of plant and equipment
have a significant bearing on classification. However, this
standard does not specify any requirements for such design,
construction or installation.
3. The classification of hazardous areas where combustible dusts are
present (Class II areas) is covered in AS 2430, Part 2.

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2 APPLICATION. This standard is intended for

application by occupiers of premises and sites for the
purpose of recognizing and classifying hazardous areas.
NOTES:
1. Responsibility for the recognition and classification of hazardous
areas is normally vested in the occupier.
2. Where a statutory authority has jurisdiction, it may be necessary
to have the classification arrived at by the occupier ratified by the
statutory authority.
3. If necessary, the occupier should seek assistance from those
competent in classification principles and procedure. Statutory
authorities normally do not perform this function.

3 REFERENCED DOCUMENTS. The following

documents are referred to in this standard:
AS 1940 SAA Flammable and Combustible Liquids
Code
AS 2106 Methods for the Determination of the
Flashpoint of Flammable Liquids (Closed
Cup)
AS 2430 Classification of Hazardous Areas
Part 2 Combustible Dusts
Part 3 Specific Occupancies

NFPA 325M

Fire Hazard Properties of Flammable

Liquids, Gases and Volatile Solids

4 DEFINITIONS. For the purpose of this standard,

the following definitions apply:
4.1 Area, hazardous - an area in which an explosive
atmosphere is present, or may be expected to be
present, in quantities such as to require special
precautions for the construction, installation and use of
potential ignition sources.
NOTES:
1. For the purpose of this standard, an area is regarded as a
three-dimensional region or space.
2. Examples of potential ignition sources are electrical equipment,
naked flames, sparks from grinding and welding operations, and
hot surfaces.

4.2 Area, non-hazardous an area in which an

explosive atmosphere is not expected to be present in
quantities such as to require special precautions for the
construction, installation and use of potential ignition
sources.
4.3 Authority, Statutory the person or body
responsible for the implementation of legislation
relating to the handling, processing or storage of
materials constituting a hazard.
4.4 Boiling point the temperature of a liquid
boiling at an ambient pressure of 101.3 kPa.
NOTE: For liquid mixtures, the initial boiling point should be
used. Initial boiling point in respect of liquid mixtures indicates
the lowest value of the boiling point for the range of liquids
present.

4.5 Explosive gas atmosphere mixture with air,

under normal atmospheric conditions (see Clause 1,
Note 1), of flammable materials in the form of gas,
vapour, or mist, in which, after ignition, combustion
spreads throughout the unconsumed mixture.
NOTES:
1. This definition specifically excludes dusts and fibres in
suspension in air.
2. Although a mixture which has a concentration above the upper
explosive level (UEL) is not an explosive gas atmosphere, in
certain cases for area classification purposes it is advisable to
consider it as an explosive gas atmosphere.

4.6 Explosive limit, lower (LEL) the concentration of flammable gas, vapour or mist in air, below
which an explosive gas atmosphere will not be formed.
4.7 Explosive limit, upper (UEL) the concentration of flammable gas, vapour or mist in air, above
which an explosive gas atmosphere will not be formed.
4.8 Flammable gas or vapour - gas or vapour which,
when mixed with air in certain proportions, will form
an explosive gas atmosphere.

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NOTE: All vapours of flammable liquids are flammable vapours.

4.9 Flammable liquid any Class 3.1 (Class A) or

Class 3.2 (Class B) liquid having a flashpoint of not more
than 61C.
NOTES:
1. AS 1940 defines a Class A flammable liquid as a flammable
liquid having a flashpoint up to but not including 23C, and a
Class B flammable liquid as a flammable liquid having a
flashpoint not less than 23C and up to and including 61C.
2. In accordance with the above definition, kerosine and white spirit
are flammable liquids whereas diesel fuel (distillate) is not.

4.10 Flammable material material consisting of

flammable gas, vapour, liquid and/or mist.
4.11 Flammable mist droplets of flammable or combustible liquid, dispersed in air, so as to form an
explosive atmosphere.
4.12 Flashpoint the lowest liquid temperature at
which, under certain standardized conditions, a liquid
gives off vapours in quantity such as to be capable of
forming an ignitable vapour/air mixture.
NOTES:
1. Flashpoint data are normally associated with liquids, though they
are also relevant to solids which sublime. It is important to note
that care must be taken in the use of flashpoint data in
applications where the ignition source may itself raise the
temperature of the combustible material.
2. The value for the flashpoint depends to some extent on the
method of test. For the purpose of this standard, flashpoints are
determined in accordance with the relevant requirements of
AS 2106.

4.13 Normal operation the situation when the plant

equipment is operating within its design parameters.
NOTES:
1. Minor releases of flammable material may be part of normal
operation. For example, releases from seals which rely on wetting
by the fluid being pumped are considered to be minor releases.
2. Failures (such as the breakdown of pump seals, flange gaskets or
spillages caused by accidents) which involve repair or shut down
are not considered to be part of normal operation.

4.14 Relative density (of a gas or vapour) the

density of a gas or a vapour relative to the density of air
at the same pressure and at the same temperature.
NOTE: The relative density of air is 1.0.

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4.15 Source of release a point or location from

which a gas, vapour, mist or liquid may be released into
the atmosphere so that an explosive gas atmosphere could
be formed.
4.16 Ventilation, general artificial movement of air
and its replacement with fresh air by artificial means (e.g.
fans) and applied to a general area.
4.17 Ventilation, local artificial movement of air and
its replacement with fresh air by artificial means (usually
extraction) applied to a particular source of release or
local area.
4.18 Ventilation, natural movement of air and its
replacement with fresh air due to the effects of wind
and/or buoyancy forces.
4.19 Ventilation, no exists where no arrangements
have been made to cause air replacement with fresh air.
4.20 Zones, hazardous - the zones into which hazardous
areas are classified based upon the frequency of the
appearance and the duration of an explosive gas
atmosphere.

AS 2430.11987

4.21 Zone 0 - an area in which an explosive gas

atmosphere is present continuously or is present for
long periods.
4.22 Zone 1 - an area in which an explosive gas
atmosphere is likely to occur in normal operation.
4.23 Zone 2 - an area in which an explosive gas
atmosphere is not likely to occur in normal operation
and if it does occur it will exist for a short period only.
NOTE: This zone applies to areas where flammable materials are
used but where an explosive gas atmosphere would occur only in
the event of an accident or some unusual operating condition. This
zoning may also apply to the interface between a Zone 1 area and
a non-hazardous area.

5 GENERAL. Area classification is a method of

analyzing and classifying the environment where
explosive gas atmospheres may occur to allow the
proper selection of equipment, particularly electrical
equipment, to be installed in that environment.
The object of the classification procedure is to enable
the equipment to be operated safely in these
environments.
Where it is necessary to use equipment in an
environment in which there may be an explosive gas
atmosphere and it is not possible to:
(a) eliminate the likelihood of an explosive gas
atmosphere occurring around the source of
ignition, or
(b) eliminate the source of ignition;
then measures should aim at reducing the likelihood of
the occurrence of either or both of the above factors so
that the likelihood of coincidence is so small as to be
acceptable.
In most practical situations where flammable materials
are used it is difficult to ensure that an explosive gas
atmosphere will never occur. It may also be difficult to
ensure that equipment will never give rise to a source
of ignition. Therefore in situations where an explosive
atmosphere has a high likelihood of occurring, reliance
is placed on using equipment which has an extremely
low likelihood of creating a source of ignition.
Conversely where the likelihood of an explosive
atmosphere occurring is reduced, equipment which has
an increased likelihood of becoming a source of ignition
may be used. To apply this approach the first step is to
assess the likelihood of an explosive atmosphere
occurring in accordance with the definitions of Zone 0,
Zone 1 and Zone 2. The following clauses give
guidance on this first step, viz: on the classification of
areas in which there may be an explosive gas
atmosphere into Zones 0, 1 and 2.
6 BASIC PRINCIPLES.
6.1 Fundamental safety concepts. It is recommended
that plants and installations in which flammable
materials are handled or stored be so designed that
hazardous areas are kept to a minimum; in particular
Zone 0 and Zone 1 areas should be a minimum in both
number and extent. In other words the hazardous areas
should be mainly Zone 2. Where release of flammable
material is unavoidable, plant equipment items should
be mainly limited to secondary grade sources of release,
or failing this (that is where primary or continuous
grade sources of release are unavoidable) the sources of
release should be such as to have a very limited
quantity or rate of release to atmosphere. In carrying

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Accessed by CLOUGH ENGINEERING on 28 Mar 2002

AS 2430.11987

out area classification, these principles should receive

prime consideration and where necessary, the design,
operation or location of process equipment should be
modified to meet these requirements. Similarly,
consideration should be given to the design and operation
of process equipment to ensure that even when it is
operating abnormally the amount of flammable material
released to the atmosphere is minimized in order to
reduce the extent of the area (Zone 2) made hazardous.
Where the situation is covered in AS 2430, Part 3, the
classification given therein should be used, provided a
careful check is made to ensure that the specific
occupancy specified is appropriate to the case under
consideration. Where the occupancy is not specified in
AS 2430, Part 3, or where unusual circumstances apply,
the procedure illustrated in Fig. 1 may be used.
Once a plant has been classified and any necessary
records made it is important that no modification to
equipment or operating procedures is made without
discussion with those responsible for the area
classification. Unauthorized action may invalidate the area
classification.
It is necessary to ensure that process equipment which
has been subjected to maintenance shall be carefully
checked during and after re-assembly to ensure that the
integrity of the original design as it affects safety, has
been maintained before it is returned to service.
It should be recognized that the opening of parts of
closed process systems (e.g. filter changing, batch filling)
should also be considered as sources of release in
developing the area classification.
6.2 Factors which determine type and extent of zones.
6.2.1 Type of zone. The likelihood of the presence of an
explosive gas atmosphere and hence the type of zone
depends mainly on the grade of source of release. In
some cases the ventilation and other factors may also
affect the type of zone.
To facilitate the classification of areas, this standard gives
some typical and specific examples (see Figs 5 and 6)
which may be used where they are applicable to the
situations under consideration. Where the examples do not
strictly apply a classification may be arrived at by
adjusting those examples to the actual conditions and
using the logic typified in Fig. 1. Where the actual
conditions are not related to the examples, additional
considerations should be introduced in the classification
procedure. For open air unrestricted ventilated situations,
Fig. 1 may be used.
Depending on conditions of release and subsequent
propagation, it may be necessary in some cases to require
a less hazardous zone surrounding a more hazardous
zone.
6.2.2 Extent of zone. The extent of zones depends mainly
on the following parameters:
(a) Release rate of flammable material. The extent may
increase with increasing release rate (but see release
velocity).
(b) Release velocity. Due to an improved dilution for
release of flammable gases, vapours and/or mists in
air, the extent of a hazardous area may decrease if,
with constant release rate, the release velocity
increases above that which causes turbulent flow.
(c) Concentration of flammable gases, vapours and/or
mists in the released mixture. The extent may
increase with increasing concentration at the release
source.
(d) Ventilation. With an increased rate of ventilation, the

extent of a hazardous area may be reduced. The extent

may also be reduced by an improved arrangement of
the ventilation system.
(e) Obstacles. Obstacles may impede the ventilation
and thus may enlarge the extent of the zone. On
the other hand some obstacles, for example dikes
and walls, may limit the movement of a cloud of
an explosive gas atmosphere and thus may reduce
the extent.
(f) Boiling point of flammable liquids (initial boiling
point for liquid mixtures). For flammable liquids,
the concentration of the released vapour is related
to the vapour pressure at the relevant maximum
liquid temperature. The lower the initial boiling
point, the greater the vapour pressure for a given
liquid temperature and hence the greater the extent
of the hazardous area.
(g) Lower explosive limit. The lower the LEL, the
larger may be the extent of the hazardous area.
(h) Flashpoint. An explosive gas atmosphere cannot
exist if the flashpoint is significantly above the
relevant maximum temperature of the flammable
liquid. The lower the flashpoint, the larger may be
the extent of the hazardous area. Some liquids
(such as certain halogenated hydrocarbons) do not
possess a flashpoint although they are capable of
producing an explosive gas atmosphere; in these
cases the equilibrium liquid temperature
corresponding to saturated concentration at LEL
should be compared with the relevant maximum
liquid temperature.
NOTE In special conditions the mist of a flammable or
combustible liquid may be released at a temperature below the
flashpoint and may therefore produce an explosive gas
atmosphere.

(j)

Relative density. The horizontal extent of a

hazardous area may increase with increasing
relative density. Where the relative density is less
than unity, the vertical extent may increase with a
decrease in relative density.
(k) Liquid temperature. The extent of a hazardous area
may increase with increasing temperature of
process liquid provided the temperature is above
the flashpoint. It should be noted that the liquid or
vapour temperature after the release may be
increased or decreased by the ambient temperature
or other factors (e.g. a hot surface).
6.3
Grading of source of release (see also
Appendix A). Each item of process equipment (e.g.
tank, pump, pipeline, vessel etc.) should be considered
as a potential source of release of flammable material.
If the item cannot contain flammable material it will
clearly not give rise to a hazardous area around it. The
same will apply if the item contains a flammable
material but cannot release it to atmosphere (e.g. an
all-welded pipeline is not a source of release).
If it is established that the item may release flammable
material to the atmosphere, (as will be the case with
most items) it is necessary, first of all, to determine the
grade of the source of release.
By means of this procedure each item will be graded
either Continuous, Primary, Secondary, or
Multi-grade .
The source grade should be estimated by considering
operational openings to atmosphere and the possibility
of releases under all (normal and abnormal) operating
conditions of the plant, installation or process.

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7
DETERMINATION OF THE TYPE AND
EXTENT OF ZONES.
7.1 General. Having established the grade of the release
source it is necessary to determine the release rate from
the item and, furthermore, the other necessary factors
which may influence the type and extent of the hazardous
area, as mentioned in Clause 6.2 (and illustrated in Figs 5
and 6).
It is rarely possible by cursory examination of a plant or
plant design to decide which parts of the plant can be
equated to the three zonal definitions (Zones 0, 1 and 2).
A more objective approach is therefore necessary and
involves the analysis of the basic possibility of an
explosive gas atmosphere occurring. Since an explosive
gas atmosphere can exist only if a flammable gas, vapour
or mist is present with air, it is necessary to decide if any
of these flammable materials can exist in the area
concerned. Generally speaking such materials (and also
flammable liquids and solids which may give rise to
them) are contained within process equipment which may
or may not provide a totally enclosed containment. To
discover the cause of an explosive gas atmosphere
existing in an area it is necessary therefore to determine
how the items of process equipment containing flammable
materials can release them to atmosphere. Once the likely
frequency and duration of release (and hence the grade of
source of release), the release rate, concentration,
velocity, ventilation and other factors which affect the
type of zone and/or extent of the hazardous area have
been determined, there is then a firm basis on which to
determine the likely presence of an explosive gas
atmosphere in the surrounding areas. This approach
therefore requires detailed consideration to be given to
each item of process equipment which contains a
flammable material, and which could therefore be a
source of release. In some cases there may be other
considerations (e.g. consequential damage) which may
call for a different classification but these considerations
are outside the scope of this Standard.
It is often convenient to carry out an area classification
study in tabular form. An example of such a table is
shown in Fig. 2, which should also include details of
apparatus group and temperature classification. When the
extent of each zone surrounding each source of release
has been determined, the composite area classification
drawing can be produced. An example of such a drawing
is shown in Fig. 3. The preferred way of indicating the
zones is shown in Fig. 4.
NOTE: Consideration should be given to the possibility that an
explosive gas atmosphere may flow into areas in the soil below
ground level such as cavities, pits and depressions.

7.2 Open air unrestricted ventilated situations.

7.2.1 Procedure. A procedure which may be adopted in
determining the type and extent of zones around a
particular process equipment item is illustrated in Fig. 1.
NOTE: The following text is given in explanation of the steps in the
figure and should be read in conjunction with it. The numbers which
appear in the text are the box numbers in the figure.

7.2.2 Quantity of flammable material. It is first necessary

to determine whether the process equipment item contains
more than a specified minimum quantity of flammable
material specified by relevant regulation or standard (e.g.
AS 1940). If there is no relevant regulation or standard,
refer to Fig. 1. (1 and 2). If it does not, the area around
it will be non-hazardous (32). Should it contain more than
the specified minimum it is necessary to determine (3) if
release of the flammable material is possible (neglecting

AS 2430.11987

catastrophic events such as the bursting of process

vessels, large pipelines or tanks). If it is not possible,
the area around the process equipment item will be
non-hazardous (32). Should release be possible the
grade of source of release should be determined in
accordance with the definitions in Appendix A. It
should be noted that the grade of source of release is
dependent only on the frequency and duration of
release.
7.2.3 Sources of release graded continuous. Where
the process equipment item is graded as continuous
(5) consideration should be given to improving the
process equipment item to reduce the frequency and/or
duration of release of the flammable material (6).
Where significant improvement is possible the process
equipment item may be regraded as a primary (18) or
a secondary (27) grade source of release. Where such
improvement is not possible the release rate, concentration, velocity, ventilation and the other factors which
affect the type and extent of zone should be determined
(7) and, where possible, modified so as to reduce the
extent.
When these factors have been modified as much as
possible, the distance from the process equipment item
to the point at which the vapour/air mixture is below
the lower explosive limit* should be determined taking
into account the release rate, concentration, velocity,
ventilation and the other necessary factors, basing the
distance on a chosen low wind speed (8) for the district
concerned. The distance so determined is the extent of
the Zone 0 from the source (9) (see Note at the end of
Clause 7.2.5).
It is then necessary to determine whether release from
the same process equipment item as a primary grade
source of release is likely (10). This is of consequence
only if the release rate, concentration or manner of
release is such as to result in a distance to the LEL
greater than that in the continuous mode for the same
chosen low wind speed. If this is the case the distance
from the process equipment item to the lower explosive
limit (12) should be determined. This distance is the
extent of the Zone 1 from the source (13) (see Note at
the end of Clause 7.2.5). Where the distance is not
greater than in the continuous mode there will be no
resultant Zone 1(11).
Consideration should then be given to the likelihood of
release from the same process equipment item as a
secondary grade (14) source of release. This is of
consequence only where the release rate, concentration
or manner of release is such as to result in a distance to
the LEL greater than that in the primary grade mode
(12) for the same chosen low wind speed. If this is the
case the distance to the lower explosive limit (16)
should be determined. This distance is the extent of the
Zone 2 from the source (17). Where the distance is not
greater than in the primary grade mode there will be no
resultant Zone 2 (15).
An example of a process equipment item graded as
continuous is an open vessel of volatile liquid which
releases a small rate of vapour continuously (continuous
grade) giving rise to a small Zone 0 (9) but where the
liquid is subject to frequent rises in temperature which
* Consideration should be given to a need for a safety factor on LEL
(e.g. a value lower than LEL).

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AS 2430.11987

cause it to release as a primary grade source at a greater

rate giving rise to a larger Zone 1(13) and where
infrequent spillage of the liquid causes it to act as a
secondary grade source giving rise to a larger Zone 2
(17). The process equipment item is therefore behaving as
a multigrade source of release giving rise to the three
zonal classifications based on different release rates and
the same chosen low wind speed (see Note at the end of
Clause 7.2.5).

The following main types of ventilation are recognized:

(a) Natural ventilation.
(b) General artificial ventilation.
(c) Local artificial ventilation.

7.2.4 Sources of release graded primary. Should the

item be graded as primary (18), a procedure similar to
that described above and illustrated in boxes (19) to (26)
should be followed.
An example of a process equipment item graded as
primary is the seal of a pump handling a volatile liquid
where the conditions are such that it releases a small rate
of liquid or vapour frequently (primary grade) giving rise
to a small Zone 1(22) but where failure of the pump seal
occurs infrequently (secondary grade) releasing liquid or
vapour at a higher rate thus giving rise to a larger Zone
2 (26). The process equipment item is therefore behaving
as a multigrade source of release giving rise to two zonal
classifications based on different release rates and the
same chosen low wind speed (see Note at the end of
Clause 7.2.5).

8.2 Natural ventilation. Examples are:

(a) Open air situations typical of those in the chemical
and petroleum industries which comprise open
structures, pipe racks, pump bays and the like.
(b) An open building which, having regard to the
relative density of the gases and/or vapours
involved, has openings in the walls and/or roof so
dimensioned and located that the ventilation inside
the building for the purpose of area classification,
can be regarded as equivalent to that in an open air
situation.
(c) A building which is not an open building but
which has natural ventilation (generally less than
that of an open building) provided by permanent
openings made for ventilation purposes.

7.2.5 Sources of release graded secondary. Should the

process equipment item be graded secondary (27), a
procedure similar to that described above and illustrated
in boxes (28) to (31) should be followed.
An example of a process equipment item graded as
secondary is the seal of a pump or pipe flange where
there is no frequent release but where failure of the seal
or gasket will occur infrequently (secondary grade) giving
rise to a Zone 2 (31) around the process equipment item
based on the release rate and the same chosen low wind
speed.

Accessed by CLOUGH ENGINEERING on 28 Mar 2002

NOTE: This explanation is based on the single low wind speed

concept. Where it is considered that lower wind speeds prevail for
sufficiently high percentages of the total time in a year, distances
based on this lower wind speed may also be calculated. The distances
so determined will give rise to zones of higher number but of greater
extent than those using the original wind speed.

7.3 Situations other than those in the open air. A

similar procedure to that described in Clause 7.2 may be
used for determining the type and extent of zones in other
than open air situations. It is not considered practical to
include standard figures to cover these situations but it is
suggested that for particular situations Fig. 1 can be used
as a basis provided modifications are introduced to cover
special features such as differing degrees of natural or
artificial ventilation, and the presence of obstructions.
Reference should be made to Clause 6.2 and Clause 8.
8 VENTILATION.
8.1 General. Gas or vapour released to the atmosphere
can be diluted by dispersion or diffusion in the air until
its concentration is below the lower explosive limit.
Ventilation, that is air movement, will promote dispersion.
The degree of ventilation, for example number of air
changes per hour, may affect the type and/or extent of
zones. The most important factor is that the design of
ventilation is related to the source of release in order to
achieve optimal ventilation conditions in the hazardous
area. In considering the effect of ventilation, the relative
density of the gases or vapours is important and should
receive special consideration in determining the
ventilation arrangements.

NOTE: It should be noted that the above terms are related to

the type and not to the degree of ventilation.

It is also necessary to recognize:

(d) No ventilation.

8.3 General artificial ventilation. Examples are:

(a) A building which is provided with fans in the
walls and/or in the roof to improve the general
ventilation in the building.
(b) An open air situation provided with suitably
located fans to improve the general ventilation of
the area.
8.4 Local artificial ventilation. Examples are:
(a) An air/vapour extraction system applied to a
process machine or vessel which continuously or
periodically releases flammable vapour.
(b) A forced or extract ventilation system applied to a
small inadequately ventilated local area where it is
expected that an explosive atmosphere may
otherwise occur.
8.5 No ventilation. An example of an area with no
ventilation is an enclosure or room having no
permanent opening.
NOTE: In a large building, the volume of which is large compared
with the hazardous area around the source of release, that area
need not necessarily be considered to have no ventilation.

8.6 Relationships between grades of source of

release, ventilation and type and extent of zone.
8.6.1 Natural and general artificial ventilation. A
continuous grade source of release may lead to a Zone
0, a primary grade to a Zone 1 and a secondary grade
to a Zone 2. In some cases, however, the degree of
ventilation may be so good that the extent of the zone
may be so small as to be negligible or the zone may
have a higher number or in the end may become
non-hazardous. On the other hand, the degree of
ventilation may be so poor that the zonal classification
will have a larger extent and in some cases a lower
zone number (see Clause 8.6.5).
NOTE: For open air situations, the zone number and extent can be
determined from Fig. 1.

8.6.2 Local artificial ventilation. Local artificial

ventilation will usually be more effective than natural
and general artificial ventilation in diluting explosive

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gas-air mixtures. As a consequence, the extent of the

zones will be reduced and in some cases will be so small
as to be negligible or the zone will have a higher number
or may become non-hazardous (see Clause 8.6.5).
8.6.3 No ventilation. Where a source of release is within
an area with no ventilation, a continuous grade will, and
a primary grade may, lead to a Zone 0 and a secondary
grade may lead to a Zone 1. Where there are special
factors, for example very infrequent release and/or
monitoring of the release, higher zone numbers may
apply.
8.6.4 Ventilation restricted by obstacles. Some obstacles
which exist in the area may impede the ventilation local
to the obstacles and may thus require a larger extent
and/or a lesser zone number in the local area. In
considering the effect of obstacles, especially in the case
of pits and pockets some of which may be inverted,
particular attention should be paid to the relative density
of the gases and vapours involved (see item(e) of
Clause 6.2.2).

likely frequency and duration should be established

together with the extent of spread of explosive gas
atmosphere in the absence of artificial ventilation. This
extent of spread may be greater (see Note) than that of
the area classification extent already determined with
the ventilation operating. The zone number(s) of the
whole area under consideration with ventilation off will
depend on the likely frequency and duration of
ventilation failure and on the classification determined
with the ventilation on.
Where the ventilation is likely to fail infrequently and
for short periods, the additional area (see Note) due to
ventilation failure need have a zone number no less
than 2.
If provision is made to prevent release of flammable
material when the ventilation has failed (e.g. by
automatically closing down the process) the
classification determined with the ventilation operating
need not be modified.
NOTE: The electrical installation in the additional area need not be
suitable for the zone of this area if provision is made to switch off
such electrical installation on ventilation failure.

9 PROPERTIES OF FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS,

GASES AND VOLATILE SOLIDS. This standard
does not contain information on the properties of
flammable liquids, gases and volatile solids. However,
information may be obtained from NFPA 325M.

Accessed by CLOUGH ENGINEERING on 28 Mar 2002

8.6.5 Consequences of artificial ventilation failure. The

area classification should be established assuming that the
ventilation is in operation since this will be the normal
condition. The risk of ventilation failure should then be
established. If the risk of failure is negligible (e.g.
because an automatic independent stand-by system is
provided) the area classification determined with the
ventilation operating will not need modification. However
should there be a risk of failure of the ventilation, the

AS 2430.11987

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NOTE: Copies of NFPA 325M are available for examination at

SAA libraries in Sydney and Melbourne. Copies of NFPA 325M
are also available for purchase from the SAA sales office in
Sydney.

AS 2430.11987

10

APPENDIX A

SOURCES OF RELEASE
A1 SCOPE. This Appendix describes the grades of sources of release and gives
examples.
A2 GRADES OF SOURCES OF RELEASE.
A2.1 General. There are three basic grades of source of release as listed below in
order of decreasing likelihood to the release occurring:
(a) Continuous grade.
(b) Primary grade.
(c) Secondary grade.
A2.2 Continuous grade source of release. A source which will release continuously
or is expected to release for long periods or for short periods which occur frequently.
A2.3 Primary grade source of release. A source which can be expected to release
periodically or occasionally during normal operation.
A2.4 Secondary grade source of release. A source which is not expected to release
in normal operation and if it releases is likely to do so only infrequently and for short
periods.
NOTE: A source of release which is a combination of two or three of the above grades, is graded
continuous or primary.

A source of release which is basically graded continuous may in addition be graded

primary if the rate of release of flammable material, for the primary grade frequency
and/or duration, exceeds that for the continuous grade.
It may, additionally or alternatively to the primary grade, also be graded secondary if
the rate of release of flammable material, for the secondary grade frequency and/or
duration, exceeds that for the continuous and, if applicable, the primary grade.
Similarly a source of release which is basically graded primary may in addition be
graded secondary if the rate of release of flammable material for the secondary grade
frequency and/or duration exceeds that for the primary grade.
A3 EXAMPLES OF SOURCES OF RELEASE.
A3.1 General. The following are examples of the grading of some sources of release.
The examples are not intended to be rigidly applied and may need to be varied to suit
particular equipment, situations and national practices.

Accessed by CLOUGH ENGINEERING on 28 Mar 2002

A3.2 Continuous grades of release.

(a) The surface of a flammable liquid in a non-inerted fixed-roof tank.
(b) The surface of a flammable liquid which is open to the atmosphere. (May apply
to oil-water separators.)
(c) Free vents and other openings which release flammable gas or vapour to
atmosphere frequently or for long periods.
A3.3 Primary grades of release.
(a) Seals of pumps, compressors and valves if release during normal operation of the
equipment is expected.
(b) Process equipment water drains located on tanks containing flammable liquids
which may release flammable material to atmosphere when draining off water
during normal operation.
(c) Sample points which are expected to release flammable material to atmosphere
during normal operation.
A3.4 Secondary grades of release.
(a) Seals of pumps, compressors and valves where release during normal operation
of the equipment is not expected to occur.
(b) Flanges, connections and pipe fittings.
(c) Relief valves, vents and other openings which are not expected to release
flammable gas or vapour to atmosphere during normal operation.
(d) Sample points which are not expected to release flammable material to atmosphere
during normal operation.
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11

Fig. 1. THEORETICAL APPROACH TO THE DETERMINATION OF TYPE AND EXTENT OF ZONES

FOR OPEN AIR UNRESTRICTED VENTILATION SITUATIONS

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AS 2430.11987

AS 2430.11987

12
Process
Flammable temperature
material
and
Location
pressure

Process equipment item

No.

Accessed by CLOUGH ENGINEERING on 28 Mar 2002

Source of release
Ventilation
Description

Grade

Horizontal distance from source to*

Code
reference
Boundary Boundary Boundary
of Zone 0 of Zone 1 of Zone 2
Column 10 Column 11 Column 12 Column 13

m
XYZ
National
Code,
page XY

Column 1
Column 2
C 52
Hydrogen
vessel

Column 3 Column 4
Area 2 in Hydrogen
open air

Column 5
30C
2 500 kPa

Column 6
Closed system
with valves, relief
valve to flare

Column 7
Natural
(open air)

Column 8
Flanges
and valve
seals (see
col. 14)

Column 9
Secondary

J 29

Area 5 in Xylene
open air

80C
300 kPa

Closed system
with valves and
drains.
Mechanical seals
and throttle bush

Natural
(open air)

Flanges
and valve
seals (see
col. 14)

Secondary

XYZ
National
Code,
page XX

Mechanical
seal (see
col. 14)

Primary/
secondary
(multigrade)

XYZ
National
Code,
page YX

Flanges,
glands
and valve
seals (see
col. 14)
Vents and
drain
points (see
col. 14)

Secondary

XYZ
National
Code,
page XZ

Primary/
secondary
(multigrade)

XYZ
National
Code,
page ZX

Tank vent
(see col. 14)

Continuous/
primary/
secondary
(multigrade)

XYZ
National
Code,
page XZ

J 94

J 32

Description

Description of
flammable
material
containment

Xylene
pump

Ethylene
compressor
(reciprocating)

Fixed roof
tank

Area 4 in Ethylene
open
building

Area 3 in Gasoline
open air

70C
2 000 kPa

Ambient

Closed system
with glands,
vents and cooler
drain points

Closed system
except for
pressure/vacuum
valve

Natural
(equivalent
to open
air)

Natural
(open air)

Zone 0 in
vapour
space

Vertical distances may also be recorded.

NOTE: Other information such as temperature class and apparatus group may need to be included.

Fig. 2 EXAMPLE OF TABLE FOR USE DURING AREA CLASSIFICATION STUDY

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Remarks
Column 14
Release due to
flange gasket or
valve seal
failures
(abnormal)
Release due to
flange gasket or
valve seal
failures
(abnormal)
Small release in
normal
operation. Larger
release on seal
failure
(abnormal)
Releases due to
flange gasket,
gland or valve
seal failures
(abnormal)
Small releases in
normal
operation. Larger
release may
occur due to
incorrect
operation
(abnormal)
Vapour vented
during normal
filling.
Possibility of
overfilling
(abnormal)

13

NOTES:
1. All dimensions are measured from sources of release.
2. In some cases it may be more practical to establish the actual
boundary of a classified area at more convenient geographical limits.
3. Details to be added where necessary regarding:
(a) Localized Zones 0 or 1.
(b) Vertical distances of Zones 0, 1 and 2. In some cases it will be
necessary to draw sections to clarify vertical distances.
(c) The title of the code which has been used as a basis for extent
of areas.
(d) Apparatus group and temperature class for selection of electrical
apparatus.

Accessed by CLOUGH ENGINEERING on 28 Mar 2002

Symbol
A
B
C
E
F
G
H
J
K
L
N
M

Description
Control room, pressurized
Switch house, pressurized
Workshop
Vessel
Distillation column
Drain
Pump (seals unlikely to release in
normal operation)
Pump (seals likely to release in
normal operation)
Pump (seals likely to release in
normal operation)
Reciprocating compressor
Compressor house (open building)
Vents (high or low level)

NOTE: The above table is given for explanation of this drawing only. It
will not appear on the completed area classification drawing.

Fig. 3. EXAMPLE OF AN AREA CLASSIFICATION DRAWING

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14

Fig. 4. PREFERRED SYMBOLS FOR THE ZONES OF A HAZARDOUS AREA

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NOTES:
1. The diagrams relate to
(a) open air situations; and
(b) sources of release near to ground level.
2. The shapes and sizes of the zones will depend on many factors
(see Clause 6.2.2)
3. Zone 1

Zone 2

Fig. 5. EXAMPLE ILLUSTRATING AREA CLASSIFICATION AROUND VARIOUS SOURCES OF

RELEASE FOR HEAVIER-THAN-AIR GASES OR VAPOURS

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15

AS 2430.11987

NOTES:
1. The diagrams relate to
(a) open air situations;
(b) sources of release above ground level; and.
(c) gases which are significantly lighter than air.
2. The shapes and sizes of the zones will depend on many factors (see Clause 6.2.2)
3. Zone 1

Zone 2

Fig. 6. EXAMPLE ILLUSTRATING AREA CLASSIFICATION AROUND VARIOUS SOURCES

OF RELEASE FOR LIGHTER-THAN-AIR GASES

Accessed by CLOUGH ENGINEERING on 28 Mar 2002