Mel,
"Intrinsic Safety" is a method used for protecting electrical equipment
for use in Hazardous (Classified) Locations, or Hazardous Areas. A
number of standards exist which define the criteria for this method of
protection.
In Europe the standards to use are;
EN 50 014: 1977 or 1992 with
EN 50 020: 1977 or 1994
Two directives cover the use of 'Electrical Equipment for use in
potentially hazardous areas', these are 76/117/EEC and 94/9/EC. 94/9/EC
has an implementation period which ends 30 June 2003. 76/117/EEC will be in
force in parallel until this time. Both directives require that
equipment is certified by a notified body. (although some exceptions do
exist these will probably not help you if you need the equipment
complying with the requirements of intrinsic safety).
A number of notified bodies exist in Europe. If you want to discuss
this please call me on (617) 255 4847, and I can give you some more
information.
Best Regards
Nick Ludlam - Factory Mutual
Bill Lawrence
South Yarmouth, MA 02664
[email protected]
