Are LED Lights Explosion Proof? Are They Good for Hazardous Locations?
Let's start by answering the first query. The quick response? Yes, certain LED lighting fixtures can withstand explosions. Some is the essential word here. For your specific hazardous area, you must choose an LED luminaire that is classed appropriately if you want it to be explosion-proof.
We have a full page dedicated to describing the many hazardous sites, as well as another one outlining the categorization scheme (which includes OSHA and the NEC) and several types of hazardous area lighting. LED lighting is the ideal option for your hazardous site if you pick the proper LED light fixture for your space with the assistance of an LED lighting partner to guarantee it is the right luminaire.
Having said that, the consequences might be truly fatal if you pick the incorrect LED lighting for your hazardous site. Not to sound overly serious, but the improper light from an unqualified manufacturer may be a real concern when we're talking about hazardous areas, like a lab or an oil rig. Sadly, not every LED light is made equal. There are producers providing inexpensive goods that fall short of expectations.
To make sure you obtain the best LEDs for your projects and applications, we have a full website page devoted to outlining the project and product criteria you need to follow. You leave yourself open to poor LED goods and the inevitable bad lighting performance if you don't define these standards. This is problematic in any lighting application, but inadequate illumination in a dangerous area has the potential to have major safety consequences. On this criterion page as well? Check out this list of particular requirements for lighting in dangerous locations.
We apologise for scaring you into selecting the right LED for your hazardous site lighting, but now that we've done that, let's talk about why going with LED over conventional lighting technologies is particularly advantageous in these unpredictable circumstances. Yes, LEDs are excellent for illuminating dangerous locations, which is the answer to the second question in our title. This is why:
The primary factor is that LED lighting requires far less maintenance than conventional lighting. Anywhere, but especially in a dangerous situation, changing out a light may be quite difficult. You might need a lift to change your lights because they are in awkward places. Since dangerous and sanitary environments may coexist, you could even need to stop down operations to change your lights and then re-clean everything thereafter.
Since LEDs last incomparably long, you won't need to replace them as frequently. What a relief for your staff and maintenance budget!
It goes without saying that LEDs are the most energy-efficient type of lighting. Running a hazardous place entails substantial expenditures due to the need for constant vigilance and the purchase of the best, safest, and legally compliant items. When it comes to dangerous places, you can't skimp since you can't risk it.
Since LEDs inherently utilise less power to function, you may save money without exerting any effort. Most LED lighting retrofit projects reduce overall energy usage by 60–75%. Up to 90% in savings may be possible. See some of the case studies here for verifiable results.
Simply put, LEDs will work better. Here are a few instances that illustrate what we mean:
better associated colour temperature and colour rendering index. Consider yourself in charge of a lab that performs medical testing. You must have a clear view of what you're doing at all times.
Less brightness degradation implies that dirt, debris, etc. won't have as much of an impact on LED performance.
Since LEDs use a solid state technology, there are fewer parts to fail, replace, and maintain in a demanding setting.
Like more antiquated technologies, such fluorescent lighting, LEDs don't contain hazardous mercury. Probably enough harmful elements are there for you to be concerned about without needing to recycle your lights separately.
An additional drawback of fluorescent lighting that doesn't apply to LEDs? switching often and a warming-up time. To keep everyone and everything safe and visible, you need your lights to switch on straight away, be bright right away, and remain on.
When compared to other lighting technologies, LEDs are less temperature sensitive. Both your business refrigerator and your dry cleaning facility are safe places to use them.
There are a tonne of benefits to choosing LED lighting in general and for your hazardous site. Additionally to all of the advantages, if you pick the appropriate LED for the task, it will be explosion-proof!
