HazardousZoneClassificationDimensionsDiesels.doc

IV.2 Classification of Hazardous Zones The hazardous zone resulting from a continuous source will be a greater hazard than the zone resulting from a primary source, because the probability is higher than it will contain a flammable mixture. To show this, hazardous zones are classified according to the type of source of flammable vapour or gas: the hazardous zone resulting from a continuous source is normally classified as Zone?0 the hazardous zone resulting from a primary source is normally classified as Zone?1 the hazardous zone resulting from a secondary source is normally classified as Zone?2. The parts of the facility which are not classified as hazardous zones can be designated non-hazardous but may still contain a flammable mixture under calamity conditions. Hazardous zone classification depends on the grade of release and the ventilation available as shown in Table IV.1: Table IV.1 Hazardous zone classification and impact of ventilation Grades of release Open air situation adequately ventilated spaces with unrestricted air movement, i.e. at least 12 changes per hour Restricted ventilation, e.g. inside modules with ventilation stopped or less than 12 changes per hour No ventilation, e.g. inside tank Continuous Zone 0 Zone 0 Zone 0 Primary Zone 1 Zone 1 Zone 0 Secondary Zone 2 Zone 1 Zone 0 For land rigs, the open air situation is the norm, with restricted ventilation only present where the drill floor is shrouded, or inside the free space of active mud tanks, ditches and well cellar areas. There should be no Zone?0 areas on any drilling rig installation. Outside Zone?0, 1 or 2 the worksite is non-hazardous. IV.3 Hazardous Zone Dimensions According to the IP Code (1990) for Drilling and Workover Installations (where diagrams are provided), the Zone 2 hazardous zones around the rig equipment extend to: 1. A cylinder 7.5 m around the bell nipple extending 9?m below the wellhead deck (offshore) or to ground level. The upper extent of the Zone