Which classification is used for locations storing easily ignitable fibers?

Which classification is used for locations storing easily ignitable fibers?

• A. Class III, Division 2
• B. Class II, Division 1
• C. Class I, Division 1
• D. Class II, Division 2

Answer: (A)

The key idea is that hazardous location classifications separate the type of ignitable material from whether the hazard is normal or abnormal in that location. Easily ignitable fibers fall under Class III. The division then specifies whether those fibers are normally present in a way that creates a hazard (Division 1) or only under abnormal conditions (Division 2). In a storage area, the fibers aren’t typically suspended in the air and don’t continually pose an ignition risk during normal operation. They could become a hazard only under abnormal conditions when fibers become airborne or are mishandled, so the appropriate classification is Class III, Division 2. This distinguishes it from locations with flammable gases (Class I) or combustible dust (Class II), which have different hazard profiles.

The key idea is that hazardous location classifications separate the type of ignitable material from whether the hazard is normal or abnormal in that location. Easily ignitable fibers fall under Class III. The division then specifies whether those fibers are normally present in a way that creates a hazard (Division 1) or only under abnormal conditions (Division 2). In a storage area, the fibers aren’t typically suspended in the air and don’t continually pose an ignition risk during normal operation. They could become a hazard only under abnormal conditions when fibers become airborne or are mishandled, so the appropriate classification is Class III, Division 2. This distinguishes it from locations with flammable gases (Class I) or combustible dust (Class II), which have different hazard profiles.