A design study of hazardous area equipment is a useful option for clients prior to submitting a formal application for certification.
The study is a focussed review of key features of the design and the standards which apply to it. These may include review of:
- Strength of enclosure materials (in particular plastics)
- Enclosure IP ratings (dust and moisture ingress)
- Selection of critical components
- Critical separations and spacings
- Batteries and their protection circuits
- Marking
- Instructions
The aim of the study is to identify critical areas of the design that might affect the compliance of the equipment. It is not a replacement for a full assessment but it is a useful means of finding weaker points in the design. It provides an opportunity to correct any weaker points outside of a certification project.
The format of the design study is agreed up-front with the client. It is normally either a desktop review conducted remotely or a half day meeting followed by further desktop study.
The output from the study is a short report which the client can use as the basis of a certification application.
The design study is often very cost-effective. Apart from the savings in time and effort during certification, some of the direct cost of a design study can usually be offset against the full certification project.