Arm yourself with knowledge and get your products on the right path

It is essential to determine which protection method is right for your products. To choose your protection method, identify the intended and potential applications for your product. Understanding the area classification as well as divisions and zones will be key to helping identify the method of protection that is most suited to your needs. For additional technical information, download our Poster, Guide to Equipment Certification Requirements for Hazardous Locations.

The charts below provide an overview of all protection methods according to the Class of the environment as well as the region.

North America

Gas, Vapor, Mist (Class I)Dust, Fibers, Flyings (Class II, III)
Increased SafetyDust Ignition Proof
Non-IncendiveDust Protected
Non-SparkingProtection by Enclosure
Explosion ProofFibers and Flyings Protection
Flame ProofEncapsulation
Powder FilledPressurization
Enclosed BreakIntrinsic Safety
Intrinsic Safety 
Limited Energy 
Pressurization 
Restricted Breathing 
Encapsulated 
Oil Emersion 

Europe (ATEX) and International (IECEx)

Gas, Vapor, Mist (Class I)Dust (Class II)Non-Electrical
Optical RadiationEnclosureFlow Restricted Enclosure
Increased SafetyIntrinsic SafetyFlame Proof Enclosure
Non-SparkingEncapsulationConstructional Safety
Flame ProofPressurizationControl of Ignition Source
Enclosed Break Pressurization
Quarts/sand Filled Liquid Immersion
Intrinsic Safety  
Pressurization  
Sealing/Hermetic Sealing  
Restricted Breathing  
Encapsulated  
Oil Emersion  

For assistance navigating protection methods, find out more about our Preliminary Design Review.