Class I, Zone 0, 1, and 2 locations are primarily concerned with what kind of hazards?

Class I locations are defined as areas where flammable gases or vapors are present in the atmosphere in sufficient quantities to create explosive or ignitable mixtures. Specifically, Zone 0 refers to areas where such hazardous gases or vapors are continuously present, Zone 1 where they are likely to occur during normal operations, and Zone 2 where they are only present under abnormal conditions.

The focus on flammable gases and vapors is critical because these substances can easily ignite and pose serious safety risks in industrial or laboratory settings. Equipment and electrical installations in these zones must adhere to specific safety standards and practices to mitigate the risk of ignition. Therefore, understanding the nature of these locations and the hazards associated with them is essential for ensuring safety and compliance with the NEC and other relevant regulations.

While combustible dust, flammable liquids, and electrical shocks are important considerations in other contexts, the primary hazards in Class I locations are specifically tied to flammable gases and vapors.