Hazardous locations requirements – gas equipment installations

Topic

This Information Bulletin is issued to provide an understanding of “hazardous locations” and what must be done when a gas appliance, not certified for a hazardous location has been installed in a hazardous location as defined by the adopted code.

Hazardous Locations

Hazardous locations are described in both the CSA B149.1 section 4.9 and CSA B149.2-section 4.7:

B149.1 4.9 Hazardous Locations

4.9.1
An appliance shall not be installed in a location that has an environment corrosive to an appliance or venting system.

4.9.2
An appliance, unless certified or approved for installation in a hazardous location, shall not be installed in any location where a flammable vapour, combustible dust or fibres, or an explosive mixture is present.

Important Information

Requirement(s):

A gas appliance shall never be installed in an area as described in 4.9.1. A gas appliance installed in an area as described in 4.9.2 must be certified for installation in a hazardous location.

Issue:

What must be done when an existing gas appliance, not certified for use in a hazardous location has been installed and the installation location is modified such that it becomes a hazardous location: 

1.   The owner of the gas equipment may submit a variance request to the regional area safety officer support by an Operational Maintenance Plan (OMP) indicating how the applicant will maintain/ensure the safe operation of the equipment in a hazardous location. If the Variance is accepted, the owner must apply for a Gas Technology Special Purpose Operating Permit.  The OMP shall be attached to the Operating Permit as a term and condition. The implementation of the OMP may be periodically assessed or audited.

2.   If an OMP cannot be implemented for the equipment in a hazardous location or the variance is not accepted, the existing gas equipment is in an unsafe condition and shall be placed out of service in accordance with the requirements of the Gas Safety Regulation section 54.  It should be de-energized and locked out. A safety offer must be promptly notified of its condition and location. Equipment certified for use in hazardous locations shall be installed.

 

 

Brad Wyatt
Provincial Safety Manager, Gas

 

 

References:
Safety Standards Act
Gas Safety Regulation
CSA B149.1 - Natural gas and propane installation code
CSA B149.2 - Propane storage and handling code