Hazardous Locations: Classes, Divisions, and Groups

Class I

Locations or areas where flammable gases or vapors are/could become present in concentrations suitable to produce explosive and/or ignitable mixtures. Class I locations are further divided into 2 divisions:

Class I, Division 1: There are three different situations that could exist to classify an area as a Class I, Division 1 location.

1. When the atmosphere of an area or location is expected to contain explosive mixtures of gases, vapors, or liquids during normal working operations. (This is the most common Class I, Div. 1)
2. An area where ignitable concentrations frequently exist because of repair or maintenance operations.
3. The release of ignitable concentrations of gases or vapors due to equipment breakdown, while at the same time causing electrical equipment failure.

Class I, Division 2: One of the following three situations must exist in order for an area to be considered a Class I, Division 2 location.

1. An area where flammable liquids and gases are handled, but not expected to be in explosive concentrations. However, the possibility for these concentrations to exist might occur if there was an accidental rupture or other unexpected incident.
2. An area where ignitable gases or vapors are normally prevented from accumulating by positive mechanical ventilation, yet could exist in ignitable quantities if there was a failure in the ventilation systems.
3. Areas adjacent to Class I, Division 1 locations where it is possible for ignitable concentrations of gas/vapors to come into this area because there isn't proper ventilation.

Class II

Class II locations are areas where combustible dust, rather than gases or liquids, may be present in varying hazardous concentrations.

Class II, Division 1: The following situations could exist, making an area become a Class II, Division 1 locations:

1. Where combustible dust is present in the air under normal operating conditions in such a quantity as to produce explosive or ignitable mixtures. This could be on a continuous, intermittent, or periodic basis.
2. Where an ignitable and or explosive mixture could be produced if a mechanical failure or abnormal machinery operation occurs.
3. Where electrically conductive dusts in hazardous concentrations are present.

Class II, Division 2: Class II, Division 2 locations exist in response to one of the following conditions:

1. Where combustible dust is present but not normally in the air in concentrations high enough to be explosive or ignitable.
2. If dust becomes suspended in the air due to equipment malfunctions and if dust accumulation may become ignitable by abnormal operation or failure of electronic equipment.
   
   

Class III

Class III locations contain easily ignitable fibers or flyings, but the concentration of these fibers or flyings are not suspended in the air in such quantities that would produce ignitable mixtures.

Class III, Division 1: These locations are areas where easily ignitable fibers or items that produce ignitable flyings are handled, manufactured, or used in some kind of a process.

Class III, Division 2: These locations are areas where easily ignitable fibers are stored or handled.

Groups

Class I and Class II locations are further divided into groups: Groups A-G for gases, vapors, and liquids. Groups A-D relate to Class I environments. Groups E-G describe different dusts that may be encountered in a Class II environment. The actual determination of what group a chemical or dust would fall into is determined by the specific properties of that chemical or dust.

Requirements for Equipment used in Hazardous Locations:

The specific hazardous atmosphere must be considered when deciding what type of equipment to use in those areas. The equipment must be designed and tested to ensure it will perform properly and not cause additional hazards in that environment. According to 29 CFR 1910.307(b)(2)(ii), "Equipment shall be marked to show the class, group and operating temperature or temperature range, based on operating in a 40°C ambient temperature for which it is approved." The National Electric Code (NEC), NFPA 70, has set guidelines for the design of equipment installed in hazardous locations.

Equipment for Class I Locations
The equipment used in Class I locations are housed in enclosures designed to contain any explosion that might occur if hazardous vapors were to enter the enclosure and ignite. These closures are also designed to cool and vent the products of this explosion as to prevent the surrounding environment from exploding. The lighting fixtures used in Class I locations must be able to contain an explosion as well as maintain a sur-face temperature lower than the ignition temperature of the surrounding hazardous atmosphere.

There are some exceptions to the marking requirement set up by OSHA under 29 CFR 1910.307(b)(2)(ii)(B). According to OSHA, "Fixed lighting fixtures marked for use in Class I, Div. 2 locations only, need not be marked to indicate the group." Also, fixed general-purpose equipment in Class I locations, other than lighting fixtures, do not need to be marked with the class, group, division, or operating temperature, but must still be acceptable for the specific class, division, and group for which it is in.

Equipment for Class II Locations
Class II locations make use of equipment designed to seal out dust. The enclosures are not intended to contain an internal explosion, but rather to eliminate the source of ignition so no explosion can occur within the enclosure. These enclosures are also tested to make sure they do not overheat when totally covered with dust, lint, or flyings.

Again, OSHA has an exception for the marking requirements for equipment used in Class II locations. According to 29 CFR 1910.307 (b)(2)(ii)(D) permanently fixed dust-tight equipment, other than lighting fixtures, which is acceptable for use in Class II, Division 2 locations does not need to be marked with the class, group, division, or operating temperature.

Equipment for Class III Locations
Equipment used in Class III locations needs to be designed to prevent fibers and flyings from entering the housing. It also needs to be constructed in such a way as to prevent the escape of sparks or burning materials. It must also operate below the point of combustion. The same exception for the Class II locations holds true for the Class III locations-fixed, dust-tight equipment, other than lighting fixtures, does not need to be marked with the class, group, division, or operating temperature, as long as it is acceptable for Class III locations.

International Comparison

The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) is an international organization that strives to create standards to help promote international trade. They use a series of zones rather than classes and divisions to classify hazardous areas. The table below compares the NEC classifications to the equivalent IEC classifications:

Definitions:

Explosion Proof: a term frequently encountered when looking at products and wiring for hazardous areas. This term is usually seen when describing Class I Division 1 equipment. There are basically two requirements for components to be considered explosion proof for Class I Division 1 atmospheres. First, the device must be able to withstand an internal explosion if it should occur and secondly, it must work to prevent the spread of the internal explosion to the surrounding saturated atmosphere. This is typically accomplished by joints and closures built into the actual device. The devices themselves may be damaged, but they are designed so as not to allow the explosion or other possible sources of ignition to reach the hazardous atmosphere.

Intrinsically Safe: another term that is often seen when looking for products to use in hazardous locations. According to the Fire Protection Handbook, intrinsically safe is defined as "...equipment and wiring incapable of releasing sufficient electrical energy under normal or abnormal conditions to cause ignition of a specific hazardous atmospheric mixture." Or simply stated, equipment that is intrinsically safe is incapable of igniting the atmosphere surrounding it.

Can First Aid Supplies Be Locked?

Yes, first aid cabinets can be locked; however, they must be readily accessible in the event of an emergency. Locking the cabinet may limit accessibility. Title 29 CFR 1910.151(b) states: "In the absence of an infirmary, clinic, or hospital in near proximity to the workplace which is used for the treatment of all injured employees, a person or persons shall be adequately trained to render first aid. Adequate first aid supplies shall be readily available." 

If the employer has persons who are trained in first aid, then adequate first aid supplies must be readily available for use. These supplies need to be stored in a convenient area available for emergency access. 

However, if OSHA found that an employer was relying on first aid services not provided by a clinic, infirmary, or hospital and adequate first aid supplies were not available when needed, then the employer would be in violation of 29 CFR 1910.151(b). 


For more info visit us at www.myfirstaidcompany.com or 866-362-2691 or email at sales@myfirstaidcompany.com














Portion of the above information was supplied by OSHA.

Are First Aid Supplies Mandatory?

Title 29 CFR 1910.151(b) states: "In the absence of an infirmary, clinic, or hospital in near proximity to the workplace which is used for treatment of all injured employees, a person or persons shall be adequately trained to render first aid. Adequate first aid supplies shall be readily available." 

If the employer has persons who are trained in first aid, then adequate first aid supplies must be readily available for use. Therefore, employers are required to provide first aid supplies that are most appropriate to respond to incidents at their workplaces. OSHA allows employers to provide first aid supplies specific to the needs of their workplace.


For more information visit us at www.myfirstaidcompany.com or call 866-362-2691 or e-mail us at sales@myfirstaidcompany.com


















OSHA has provide part of the above information. 

Eye Wash Stations Plumbed and Portable

Plumbed Emergency Showers and Eyewash Stations

Studies have shown that despite the 15-minute flushing requirement, users usually flush exposed body parts five minutes or less. The reasons were always related to the extreme discomfort users experienced using cold water. In cold climates the water temperature in indoor plumbed systems can be in the 2-7°C (35-45°F) range.

Also, drinkable tap water may not provide the best flushing solution. Tap water may contain many contaminants and could aggravate the injured body part. Some municipal water supplies also contain chlorine which can irritate and leach salt from the eye tissue. As well, tap water may contain rust, scale and chemicals. Running the water continually keeps the water line fresh. Plumbed emergency eyewash stations should use water that is periodically tested and treated to remove chemical contaminants.

Portable, Self-Contained Eyewash Stations

Portable, self-contained eyewash stations have a limited amount of fluid. As a result, maintenance is critical to ensure that units are fully charged at all times.

These eyewash stations also require ongoing maintenance of the buffered saline solution. The agents used to control bacterial growth are effective for certain limited periods of time. Also, small amoebae capable of causing serious eye infections have been found in portable and stationary eyewash stations. Consequently it is important to monitor the shelf life of the solution and replace the solution when it has expired.

Eye and Skin Flush

Eyewash Skin Wash Products contain a preserved, buffered, saline solution that is sterile. Personal eyewash devices are intended to supplement, not replace, eyewash units. Personal products may also be used for continued irrigation when moving an injured person.

For questions contact us at 866-362-2691 or www.myfirstaidcompany.com or sales@myfirstaidcompany.com

Eco Exit Signs Green and Recyclable

What are Eco Exit™ Signs?

·          Glow in the dark exit signs that comply with NFPA Lifecode 101

·          Because these signs glow in the dark, the require zero electricity and are environmentally friendly.

·          Unlike other exit signs, Eco Exit™ is a non-radioactive product

·          No maintenance is required since there are no wires, bulbs, or electricity to deal with

·          Only completely green solution available on the market.  They are even recyclable. 

Eco Exit™ Specifications

·                                 Listed to UL 924

·                                 P50: 8.25" x 13.25" x .325"

·                                 PF50 and PM100: 8.625" x 15.875" x .375"

·                                 LEED points qualified

·                                 Meets 2009 IBC and 2009 IFC regulations.  
                  Please call 866-363-2691 for a quote on this product.  www.myfirstaidcompany.com or email                sales@myfirstaidcompany.com

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2010 ANSI approved a new High Visibility Standard

On January 8th, 2010, ANSI approved a new revision of the 107 Standard on High Visibility Apparel. The two significant changes one being reflective material around the shoulder area and the other any garment marked FR must comply with one of the FR standards.   

ARLINGTON, Va.- EON-An updated national consensus standard for high-visibility safety apparel from the International Safety Equipment Association (ISEA) now provides criteria and test requirements for garments marked as flame- or water-resistant, and includes service-life guidelines.

“Due to this widespread use, garments have evolved to address other needs of workers, such as flame-resistant properties. The inclusion of flame-resistance criteria as an optional feature is in direct response to end-user requests.”

The American National Standard for High Visibility Safety Apparel and Headwear (ANSI/ISEA 107-2010) is the authoritative document for the design, performance specifications, and use of high-visibility apparel, including millions of vests, jackets, coveralls, trousers, rainwear and headwear, worn by workers in thousands of road construction, emergency response, forestry and other industrial and business settings.

This second update since ISEA published the first edition in 1999 was developed by ISEA’s High Visibility Products Group and approved by key stakeholders representing utility workers, safety professionals, transportation safety experts, testing laboratories and government agencies. Though the revision does not change the long-standing requirements for compliant garments with respect to classification and color, it does address important issues for the wearer related to flame-resistance and use during rainfall.

“In the past decade, the acceptance and use of high-visibility garments have become commonplace in working environments where any kind of vehicular movement is present,” said Jim Teigen, chairman of the ISEA High-Visibility Products Group and business manager of OK-1 Manufacturing, Altus, Okla. “Due to this widespread use, garments have evolved to address other needs of workers, such as flame-resistant properties. The inclusion of flame-resistance criteria as an optional feature is in direct response to end-user requests.”

Additionally, the update calls attention to the service-life guidelines for high-visibility garments that have been established by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). “It is important that the end-user be aware of a high-visibility garment’s capability to offer continued protection,” Teigen noted. “For this reason, users are encouraged to follow guidelines put forth by the FHWA and manufacturers to ensure that workers are being seen at all times, in all situations.”

The 43-page American National Standard for High-Visibility Safety Apparel and Headwear (ANSI/ISEA 107-2010) includes examples of apparel configurations known to meet the standard. The standard can be purchased from ISEA for $62 a copy; discounts are available on bulk orders. For more information, contact our office at 866-362-2691 or www.myfirstaidcompany.com

myfirstaidcompany can special order any high visibility garment you need.  They also offer a complete line of first aid products, first aid kits and safety products. 

Contacts

myfirstaidcompany.com
866-362-2691
sales@myfirstaidcompany.com

How To Stop A Bloody Nose

Here's How To Stop A Bloody Nose:

1. Stay Safe! Follow universal precautions and wear personal protective equipment if you have it. The victim's bloody nose may be from trauma. Make sure you are not going to be hurt while helping the victim.
2. Lean forward, not back. Don't try to protect a favorite shirt by leaning back. The blood needs to go somewhere and will most likely go down the throat. If the victim leans back, blood could get in the windpipe causing a blocked airway, or go into the stomach. Blood may irritate the stomach lining and cause the victim to vomit.
3. Pinch the victim's nose just below the bony bridge. Your fingers should be on the soft tissue as well as the bone. If there is still blood flowing, adjust your grip. There should not be visible bleeding while you are holding the nose. Blood vessels that supply the nasal membrane can be pinched against the bony bridge (the hard part) to slow blood flow and create a clot. Hold the nose for at least 5 minutes. Do not let go to check bleeding until the 5 minutes is up.
4. After 5 minutes, release the pressure to see if the bleeding has stopped. If not, repeat Step 3 for 10 minutes this time. Remember: don't let go to check bleeding until the 10 minutes is up. Repeat for another 10 minutes if necessary.
5. If a bloody nose doesn't stop after the second or third try, it's time to see a doctor. If at any time, the victim feels lightheaded, dizzy, or weak, call 911. If left uncontrolled, bloody noses can lead to shock.

Tips:

1. Placing ice or a chemical cold pack over the bridge of the nose can constrict the blood vessels and help stop bleeding. Use this in addition to pressure.
2. After the bleeding is controlled, do not let the victim blow his or her nose. Blowing the nose will release the clots and encourage bleeding to start again.
3. Most bloody noses are the result of dry nasal membranes or trauma. However, some nosbleeds occur spontaneously and may indicate more serious medical problems. Contact a physician if the victim is suffering from frequent or hard-to-control bloody noses.
4. Bloody noses after trauma to the head may indicate a brain injury - especially if the bleeding occurs without obvious facial injury. If a victim of significant trauma - such as a vehicle accident or fall - is bleeding from the nose, call 911 immediately.

Stopping a bloody nose is so important because most victims see the blood and can and do panic.  Stopping the bleeding as soon as possible is very important. Ask has provided us with a lot of good tips over the years and this blog post on bloody noses is a perfect example.  As alway a great place to look for more information or first aid products or safety products is at www.myfirstaidcompany.com or contact us at 866-362-2691 or e-mail jimriggs@myfirstaidcompany.com

What is Emergency First Aid

The question we get asked all the time is "What is emergency first aid"? Accidents can happen. When they do, you can be prepared with our First Aid products. With items like first aid kits and refills, eye and body wash stations and refills, skin and wound care products, emergency response and biohazard equipment you are sure to find the right product for your needs. We even have electrolyte replenishment products and dispensers to keep you hydrated! Answer: The answer to this question is not as easy as it seems. "First aid" is a catch-all phrase that refers to two distinctly different medical needs. Emergency first aid is exactly that - the first response to a life-threatening (or limb-threatening) medical emergency, either an illness or an injury. More advanced medical care will happen after first aid in this case. This type of first aid includes CPR, clearing an airway obstruction, responding to anaphylactic shock, splinting a broken bone, and severe bleeding control. For more question please contact us at 866-362-2691 or www.myfirstaidcompany.com or sales@myfirstaidcompany.com Some of the above information was supplied to us from AirGas and Ask.

ISO Labels What are they????

Placed on machinery and equipment. 

     Identify required procedures and equipment, prohibited actions, and hazard pertaining to the machinery

·     Complies with International Standardization Organization (ISO) regulations

·     Labels only use graphics, making them understandable in any language.  

  

     At www.myfirstaidcompany.com we can take the confusing out of labels.  Just e-mail us at sales@myfirstaidcompany.com call 866-362-2691 or visit us at www.myfirstaidcompany.com 

Mandatory Action Labels
These labels are in the shape of a circle and are blue with a white graphic. Labels such as ISO201 depict actions that are required in order to use the equipment they are placed on - such as required PPE or necessary safety procedures.

Prohibition Labels
Signs like ISO225 are red and white circular labels with black graphics and display prohibited actions. These include "No Smoking," "Do Not Touch Surface," and "No Portable Transmitters." 

Warning Labels
These triangular labels contain black graphics on a yellow background that warn the equipment operator of potential hazards. ISO244 and other Warning Labels can warn of a crush hazard, splash hazard, explosive hazard and more.

As always safety is and should be of great importance to you and your company.  If you need first aid supplies or safety supplies please contact us at sales@myfirstaidcompany.com call 866-362-2691 or visit us at www.myfirstaidcompany.com 


















NMC contributed to this article

ISO Labels

Mandatory Action Labels

These labels are in the shape of a circle and are blue with a white graphic. Labels such as ISO201 depict actions that are required in order to use the equipment they are placed on - such as required PPE or necessary safety procedures.

Prohibition Labels
Signs like ISO225 are red and white circular labels with black graphics and display prohibited actions. These include "No Smoking," "Do Not Touch Surface," and "No Portable Transmitters." 

Warning Labels
These triangular labels contain black graphics on a yellow background that warn the equipment operator of potential hazards. ISO244 and other Warning Labels can warn of a crush hazard, splash hazard, explosive hazard and more.

As always safety is and should be of great importance to you and your company.  If you need first aid supplies or safety supplies please contact us at sales@myfirstaidcompany.com call 866-362-2691 or visit us at www.myfirstaidcompany.com 

NMC has contributed to this blog. 

First Aid Kits and Supplies

A well-stocked first-aid kit can help you respond effectively to common injuries and emergencies. Keep at least one first-aid kit in your home, one in your car and one at your business.

You can purchase first-aid kits and first aid contents along with safety supplies directly on our website www.myfirstaidcompany.com or call us at 1-866-DOC-BOX-1 (866-362-2691) . Contents of a first-aid kit should include at a minimum:

Basic supplies:

First Aid Guide

Adhesive Bandages 1 x3

Absorbent Compress 32 sq. in.

Sterile (Gauze) Pads 3 x 3

Triangular Bandage 40 x 40 x 56

Adhesive Tape 1x5 yds

Burn Treatments 0.9gm

Antiseptic Treatment Applications 0.5gm

Medical Exam Gloves

(Triple) Antibiotic Treatment 0.5gm

Analgesic (Oral) Pain Reliever (ibuprofen)

Anti-diarrhea medication

(CPR) Breathing Barrier

Burn Dressing Pad 12 sq. in. or larger

Cold Pack 4 x 5 in. or larger

Eye Covering individually packaged and sterile

Eye Face Sterile Wash minimum of 4 fl. oz individual use

Roller Bandage minimum 2 in. individual and sealed

Hand Sanitizer 0.9gm

Bandage Compress 2”

Safety Glasses

Non-adherent (Gauze) Pad 4 sq. in. or larger

Alcohol Wipes

Hydrocortisone Cream

Disposable tweezers

Scissors

Medi-Rip

Seasonal Cold/Sinus/Allergy Analgesic for productivity enhancement

Bodily Fluid Kit

Analgesic (Oral) included in a first aid kit shall be packaged in a single dose, tamper evident, package with full labeling as required by FDA regulations, and should contain no ingredients which are known to cause drowsiness

Emergency items

Cell phone and recharger that uses the accessory plug in your car dash

Emergency phone numbers, including contact information for your family doctor and pediatrician, local emergency services, emergency road service providers and the regional poison control center

Medical consent forms for each family member

Medical history forms for each family member

Candles and matches for cold climates

Sunscreen

In addition, take a first-aid course to prepare for a possible medical emergency. Be sure the course covers cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and how to use an automatic external defibrillator (AED). Renew your CPR certification at least every two years.

Prepare children for medical emergencies in age-appropriate ways. The American Red Cross offers a number of helpful resources, including classes designed to help children understand and use first-aid techniques.

Please visit our website at www.myfirstaidcompany.com for more information.

Some of the above info was provided by the Mayo Clinc Health Manager

Eye Protection-Take It Home!

Eye vision is so important to each of us and a terrible thing to lose. We all use safety measures on the job but stop and think about taking some of those lessons home with you.
Eye injuries occur by the thousands each day in America. The good new is that 90% are preventable. Please consider your eyes when involved in everyday home activities or sports.
When doing yard work always wear protection when chipping wood, when mowing the lawn, using the trimmer, or pruning tree branches. Each year thousands of people go to the hospital with eye injuries from doing yard work.

When involved in other leisure activities or sports such as basketball, baseball, target shooting, paintball, setting off fireworks, or hobbies such as woodworking please wear eye protection.

Safety glasses are readily available through most first aid suppliers and all sporting goods stores. Today there are many stylish models too pick from and that may also help encourage your children to wear them as well.

Please be cautious and remember that your eye safety is just as important at home.

For more information please call 866-362-2691 or e-mail us at sales@myfirstaidcompany.com or visit our website at www.myfirstaidcompany.com

Promote Safety with Good Attitudes

A good attitude about working safe is a major key in the prevention of injuries and accidents to yourself and others. Whether at work or at home those with a positive attitude toward safety consistently have fewer incidents of injury than those who do not.

How can you develop a good “Safety Attitude”?

DISCIPLINE: Have the discipline to do what is right even when others encourage you to take short cuts or fool around.


TIME: Always take the time to do it right. Shortcuts are never worth the risk.


FOCUS: Make it a habit to focus on the job at hand and avoid distractions.

AVOID RISKS: Avoid taking risks whenever you can.


RESPONSIBILITY: Take it-even when it isn’t your job! Such as cleaning up a spill you find that someone may slip on or fixing-reporting safety hazards.

THINK POSITIVE: People like to deal with a positive attitude. It can be contagious. It forms better communication between workers, leads to better customer service, and improved sales.

TEAMWORK: Unite people in overcoming challenges and problems safely.



LEADERSHIP: Be a safety leader by being a good example to those around you.

MOTIVATION: Motivate others to see the challenges with a positive attitude instead of obstacles in the way.

For more information please call 866-362-2691 or e-mail us at sales@myfirstaidcompany.com or visit our website at www.myfirstaidcompany.com

Safety orientation for new employees

A general safety checklist when introducing a new or transferred employee to the workplace  can be beneficial. Every new worker should develop the abilities and skills necessary for a healthy and safe work environment.
Some safety topics you should include in your orientation are;

1. Safety rules specific to your company

2. General company safety policies

3. Necessary safety, environmental, compliance and safety procedures training

4. Tour the facility. Point out any hazards and safe work practices

5. Point out the locations of eyewashes and showers, fire equipment, exits, alarms, and first aid kits

6. Show them the locations of  hazardous materials storage or disposal areas

7. Show them the location of the MSDS files (material safety data sheets)

8. Review any PPE (personal protective equipment) they will be required to use
9. Review your proceedures for accident reporting

10. Cover any safety training the employee may have completed in the past

11. Have them complete an emergency notification form

12. Explain workers rights and responsibilities as required by legislation

Remember not all training can or should be done on the first day. It is best to time your safety orientation to match your needs in the workplace and the work to be done.

 Be sure all the above areas are covered.

For more information please call 866-362-2691 or e-mail us at sales@myfirstaidcompany.com or visit our website at http://www.myfirstaidcompany.com/