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Some work environments contain flammable gases, such as gasoline vapors or natural gas. Others, like paint booths, have unstable particles suspended in the air. The presence of an ignition source, whether heat, sparks, an electrostatic discharge, friction, or any other trigger, can initiate an explosive reaction. When there is a risk of explosion, companies must use classified equipment to ensure a safe environment. This is why we offer explosion-proof lifting equipment, certified to the highest standards, including the Canadian CSA standard.
Hazardous locations are classified according to the type of danger involved: Class I locations (Zone 0,1,2) involve flammable gases or vapors in sufficient quantities to form explosive atmospheres, while Class II locations (Zone 20,21,22) are characterized by the presence of combustible or electrically conductive dusts. The classification by an expert specifies the location of the equipment in the room, the type of substance and the environment, as well as the maximum surface temperature of the equipment, in order to prevent any risk of self-ignition.
Canada/US: Class I,II division 1,2
Canada/other countries: Zone 0,1,2 or 20,21,22
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In principle, zone and division methods of site distribution offer equivalent levels of safety. However, the Canadian Electrical Code (CE) gives preference to zoning. As indicated in Section 18, new installations in Class I hazardous locations will henceforth be classified according to the zoning system.
For existing installations, the decision to reclassify them under the zoning system is left to the owner. Lifting equipment approved for Class 1 or Class 1, Division 1 is accepted in Zones 1 and 2, while Class 1, Division 2 lifting equipment is only accepted in Zone 2. Refer to articles 18-100 and 18-150 and the table in Appendix J, section J1.2.
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The classification of hazardous locations is a complex process requiring in-depth expertise. It is strongly recommended to call on an experienced professional, such as a chemist, to carry out this assessment, rather than to improvise as an expert in this field. So, caution and the involvement of a specialist are essential to guarantee safety and avoid potentially serious consequences. A well-documented hazardous environment analysis process will enable the crane manufacturer to design the most suitable equipment.
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In some cases, equipment or components may appear safe because they are not electrified. Take, for example, an air-powered hoist. At first glance, this equipment presents no spark hazard. However, the friction of certain materials or impacts could generate sparks. In Canada, there are no recognized national standards, or certification programs, for evaluating non-electrical equipment used in flammable environments, although some industries or jurisdictions may impose their own requirements. That said, the expert involved in the case may recommend specific spark-resistant non-electrical components, such as brass wheels, a bronze-coated hook or a stainless steel electrification system.
The cost of an explosion-proof overhead crane is typically 3 to 4 times higher than that of a standard crane. This difference is due to the use of specialized components designed to withstand explosion risks, and the need to comply with strict manufacturing standards. Each system requires precise wiring, in-shop testing, and a mandatory CSA SPE-1000 inspection in Canada after electrical assembly.
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Choosing an explosion-proof overhead crane can feel overwhelming, especially when strict safety and hazardous zone standards must be met. Here are the recommended steps to launch your project in a structured and efficient way:
1. Consult a process specialist
Before selecting your equipment, it's essential to determine the classification of your hazardous area (class, division, group, auto-ignition temperature). This step directly influences the type of explosion-proof crane required.
2. Assess your lifting requirements
Make sure to gather the following operational data:
Number of lifts per hour
Required lifting height
Maximum load weight
Lifting and travel speeds (if specific speeds are required)
Ambient temperature or other environmental conditions
3. Communicate with the crane manufacturer
Before reaching out to a manufacturer, prepare the following details:
Your environment’s classification (class, division, group, temperature)
Your operational cycles (frequency and intensity)
Any integration constraints: available clearance, physical space, and safety requirements
You now have a clear overview of the key elements needed to plan a safe and compliant explosion-proof crane project.
Our team can help validate your needs, ensure your project meets applicable standards, and recommend the equipment best suited to your environment.
Click “Contact a Specialist” at the bottom of the page to get started.
Whether you're an expert or know nothing about cranes, you'll find everything you need to know HERE.