Explosion-Proof Exit Sign – Benefits and Types

Explosion-proof exit signs are also referred to as “hazardous location exit signs” and have the same purpose as other types of emergency exit signs.  Their housings are designed and developed in such a way as to avoid, prevent, or withstand rupturing caused by external or internal explosions.  Currently, the NEC (National Electric Code) and OSHA require the installation of these signs wherever flammable materials are present within a structure.  Flammable materials are typically classified as Class 1 or Class 2 flammable materials.



There are three basic types of these signs and are categorized as Class 1, 2, or 3 explosion-proof exit signs.  The types of flammable materials that are sold or used by that business help to determine which class of sign that they need.  The breakdown of these different classes is as follows:

Class 1 – this class of explosion-proof exit signs applies to business facilities that carry, handle, manufacture, or process flammable and hazardous materials.  Examples of businesses that fall into this category include gas stations, oil rigs, etc.  An extremely high degree of flammable retardant materials are needed for the exit signs used in these facilities due to the extremely explosive nature of the materials they deal with.

They must be able to withstand fires that burn at an extremely high temperature.  They must also be constructed of shatterproof materials in order to withstand shattering of the fixture itself because of flying debris that results when an explosion occurs.

Class 2 – facilities that handle non-hazardous, flammable materials such as aluminum or magnesium powders or grains must install Class 2 explosion-proof exit signs.  Again, flame retardant materials are required for the construction of these types of signs.  However, shatterproof materials are not required like they are in Class 1 signs.

Class 3 – those businesses and their facilities that handle minor flammable materials such as cotton, sawdust, or wood shavings must install Class 3 explosion-proof exit signs.  Although a lower degree of flammability is typical with these types of businesses, due to the fact that they carry and handle any type of flammable materials they are still required to install these signs because a fire can still spread quickly throughout the structure.  Therefore, the installation of these types of exit signs is still required.

On a closing note, you can also purchase and install combo explosion-proof exit signs and emergency lighting set-ups.  This provides the business with the dual benefit of protection and cost-effectiveness.

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