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  • Course Summary

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    This Hazardous Area Classification (HAC) course provides a comprehensive introduction to the principles, methodology, and regulatory requirements associated with identifying and classifying hazardous areas where explosive atmospheres may occur. Participants will gain an understanding of how HAC fits within a DSEAR / ATEX assessment and how classification decisions support equipment selection, ignition source control, and facility design.  

  • Learning Outcomes

    By the end of the course, participants will be able to: 

    • Explain the purpose and regulatory basis of hazardous area classification. 

    • Identify situations where explosive atmospheres may occur. 

    • Understand zone concepts for gases, vapours, and combustible dusts. 

    • Understand the impact of release characteristics and ventilation on area classification. 

    • Interpret hazardous area drawings and documentation. 

    • Review and challenge HAC studies and recommendations with confidence. 

    • Recognise common pitfalls and understand when specialist input may be required.  

  • Key Topics

     

    Regulatory Framework and Legal Requirements 

    • DSEAR / ATEX obligations and the role of hazardous area classification. 

    • Duties relating to the assessment and control of fire and explosion risks. 

    Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres 

    • Definitions of dangerous substances under DSEAR / ATEX. 

    • Formation of explosive atmospheres. 

    • Key material properties for flammable gases, vapours, liquids, and combustible dusts.  

    Hazardous Area Classification – Concepts and Definitions 

    • Classification of gas/vapour zones (0, 1, and 2) and dust zones (20, 21, and 22). 

    • Understanding sources and grades of release (continuous, primary, and secondary). 

    • Influence of containment, ventilation, and operational conditions on zone determination.  

     Sources of Release and Ventilation 

    • Identification of common sources of release in industrial processes. 

    • Assessment of natural and mechanical ventilation effectiveness. 

    • Understanding how ventilation affects the classification and extent of hazardous areas.  

    Practical Hazardous Area Classification Methodology 

    • Step-by-step overview of the HAC process. 

    • Information requirements, assumptions, standards, and industry guidance. 

    • Common mistakes and practical considerations for real-world applications.  

    Documentation and Compliance 

    • Development and interpretation of hazardous area drawings and zone schedules. 

    • Recording assumptions, limitations, and justification of classification decisions. 

    • Links between HAC and equipment selection. 

    • Review and management of change.  

    Case Studies and Lessons Learned 

    • Practical examples from common installations. 

    • Learning from real-world incidents and industry experiences.  

  • Target Group

    The course is suitable for engineers, process safety professionals, operations personnel, project engineers, maintenance teams, and anyone involved in the design, operation, assessment, or management of facilities where flammable substances or combustible dusts are present.  

  • Prerequisites

    A basic understanding of DSEAR and/or ATEX regulations. If you would like to know more then we also offer DSEAR and ATEX E-Learning which can be accessed prior to the live event.

    Please click here for further information:  DSEAR and ATEX | Gexcon

  • Book Your Space

    If you would like to book your space please click the following link:

    Hazardous Area Classification (HAC) - Online Training | Gexcon

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