General selection requirements for mobile (explosion-proof flashlights) and portable equipment (explosion-proof mobile work lights) in explosive gas atmospheres

In production sites that contain explosive hazardous environments, mobile explosion-proof electrical equipment such as explosion-proof mobile phones, explosion-proof walkie-talkies, explosion-proof flashlights, and explosion-proof mobile work lights have been widely applied.

Equipment that may enter or be brought into a hazardous area should have an appropriate Equipment Protection Level (EPL). If mobile or portable equipment used in a hazardous area does not meet the regular EPL requirements, the documented hazardous management procedures should be followed. These procedures should include appropriate training, procedures and controls.

According to the usage requirements and flexibility of use, different locations may require the use of mobile or portable devices. Areas with higher EPL levels should not use devices with lower EPL levels, except for those with additional protective measures. However, in practice, such restrictions may be difficult to enforce, especially for portable devices. Therefore, it is recommended that all devices meet the requirements of the area with the highest EPL level. Similarly, the equipment category and temperature group should be suitable for all gases, vapors and dust that may be encountered in the equipment usage location. Unless appropriate preventive measures are taken, spare batteries should not be brought into hazardous locations.

For mobile or portable electrical equipment, if a metal flexible armour or shielding layer is used in the cable, the armour or shielding layer should not be used as the sole protective conductor. The cable should be suitable for the circuit protection layout. For example, when ground monitoring is used, the required number of conductors should be included. If the equipment needs to be grounded, in addition to the grounding conductor (PE), the cable may also include a flexible metal shielding layer that is grounded.

Portable (hand-held, portable and movable) electrical equipment is particularly prone to damage or misuse, so the time interval for continuous supervision and inspection can be shortened as needed. Portable electrical equipment should be inspected at least once every 12 months, and detailed inspections should be carried out on frequently opened enclosures (such as battery covers). In addition, such equipment should be visually inspected before use to ensure that there is no obvious damage to the equipment.