What is Hazardous Area Classification (HAC)?
Hazardous Area Classification (HAC) is an essential requirement under the DSEAR (Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2002) and ATEX Directive used in industrial and commercial settings to identify and categorise areas where the presence of flammable gases, vapours, liquids, combustible dust, or other potentially explosive or hazardous materials may pose a risk to personnel, equipment, and facilities.
This classification framework is instrumental in ensuring the implementation of appropriate measures to prevent or mitigate the risk of ignition and subsequent incidents. It provides clear guidance for selecting and installing equipment that aligns with the relevant safety standards and protection methods specific to each zone category, emphasising the importance of purposeful design to minimise the potential for ignition sources.
How Gexcon can assist
Gexcon has significant experience across various industries in carrying out Hazardous Area Classification or simply peer-reviewing a previously conducted classification. Our experienced engineers can provide in-depth advice on risk reduction measures to uphold legal compliance, mitigating capital and operational expense implications for your facility.
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With over 40 years of experience in the field of process safety and risk management, Gexcon's team of dedicated consultants has the knowledge, passion, and expertise to support you through every step of your project life-cycle.
Hazardous Area Classification (HAC) training
Learn how to determine the extent of classified areas, their classification depending on the leak size, and their frequency of occurrence to safeguard your operations and prevent potentially catastrophic incidents.
