Hazardous Area Classification (HAC)

Hazardous Area Classification (HAC) systematically identifies where flammable or explosive atmospheres may arise in the workplace, helping to define safe zoning, equipment selection, and operational safeguards. By classifying gas, vapour, mist, or dust hazards, HAC supports compliance with ATEX, IEC, and national standards, ensuring workplaces implement appropriate explosion protection measures and reduce ignition risks to an acceptable level.

Service information

Classify hazardous zones (Zone 0, 1, 2 or Zone 20, 21, 22) as required by Regulation 7 of DSEAR
Apply industry good practice for zone classification, including IEC 60079-10-1 (gases), IEC 60079-10-2 (dusts), EI Model Code of Practice Part 15, IGEM UP/15 (gas installations) and IGEM/SR/25
Perform bespoke dispersion modelling using PHAST, FRED, EFFECTS or FLACS to support zone classification
Estimate the likelihood, duration, and extent of flammable or combustible atmospheres under normal and abnormal conditions
Assess ventilation adequacy, release characteristics, gas/dust groups, and equipment temperature classes (T-ratings)
Identify ignition sources — electrical, mechanical, electrostatic, hot surfaces — and define targeted safety controls
Develop clear HAC reports for engineering, operations, and regulatory purposes
Support continuous improvement through periodic HAC reviews, audits and updates to reflect process or layout changes

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