Why Choose Intrinsically Safe Cases?

In hazardous industrial environments where flammable gases, vapors, or combustible dusts are present, standard electronic devices like smartphones and tablets pose a significant ignition risk. Intrinsically Safe Cases are engineered solutions that allow for the use of common consumer electronics in these volatile areas without compromising safety. By encasing a non-certified device in a certified case, you transform it into a tool that is compliant for use in specific hazardous locations. These cases are not merely rugged; they are meticulously designed and tested to meet stringent global safety standards, preventing the internal electronics from generating sparks or heat sufficient to cause an explosion. This enables critical communication, data collection, and operational efficiency directly at the point of work, eliminating the need for cumbersome and less efficient manual processes.

ATEX & Class I Div 2 Explained

Understanding the certification standards is paramount when selecting protective equipment. Our cases are certified under the primary global standards for hazardous locations:

• ATEX: This is the European Union’s directive for equipment used in potentially explosive atmospheres. ATEX-certified cases are categorized into Zones based on the level of risk. A Zone 1 certification, for example, allows for a device to be used in an area where an explosive atmosphere is likely to occur in normal operation. A Zone 2 certification is for areas where such an atmosphere is unlikely but may occur for short periods.
• Class I Division 2 (C1D2): This is the North American standard. ‘Class I’ refers to hazards involving flammable gases or vapors. ‘Division 2’ specifies that these hazardous substances are present only under abnormal conditions, such as an accidental leak or equipment failure. A device in a C1D2-certified case is approved for safe operation in these environments.

It is crucial to match the case’s certification to your facility’s specific zone or class/division rating to ensure full compliance and personnel safety.

Key Safety Features (Explosion Proof, Chemical Resistant)

Our intrinsically safe cases are built from the ground up with safety and durability as primary design criteria. A common misconception is to equate ‘intrinsically safe’ with ‘explosion-proof’. While both relate to safety, they operate on different principles. An explosion-proof enclosure is designed to contain an internal explosion. In contrast, an intrinsically safe case is a non-incendive solution, meaning it is engineered to limit the electrical and thermal energy of the device within to a level below that which can ignite a specific hazardous atmospheric mixture.

Key features include:

• Non-Incendive Construction: Cases are made from robust, anti-static materials like ballistic nylon or specialized polymers that dissipate static charge and prevent sparks from mechanical impact.
• Sealed Enclosure: Precision engineering ensures a tight seal, often meeting IP (Ingress Protection) ratings like IP54 or higher, protecting against dust and water ingress which could cause short circuits.
• Chemical Resistance: Materials are selected for their ability to withstand exposure to harsh industrial chemicals, oils, and solvents, ensuring long-term integrity and protection in demanding field conditions.

Case Types & Compatibility

We provide a comprehensive range of intrinsically safe cases designed for the most widely used mobile devices in the industry, ensuring seamless integration into your existing workflows. Each case is designed for a specific device model to guarantee a perfect fit, which is essential for maintaining the integrity of the safety certification.

iPhone & Android Phone Cases

Enable your team to use their familiar devices safely in hazardous zones. We offer certified cases for a wide array of popular smartphones, including multiple generations of the Apple iPhone and leading Android devices such as the Samsung Galaxy series. These cases provide full access to the device’s screen, buttons, and cameras (where permitted by the certification), ensuring no loss of functionality while guaranteeing C1D2 or ATEX compliance. Unlike standard ‘rugged’ cases which only protect against drops, our cases are certified safety systems.

Tablet & Utility Device Cases

For tasks requiring a larger screen, such as accessing technical drawings, completing digital forms, or video conferencing with remote experts, we offer intrinsically safe cases for tablets like the Apple iPad, Microsoft Surface, and Samsung Galaxy Tab. These solutions bring powerful computing capabilities directly into hazardous areas, boosting productivity and data accuracy. The robust construction provides superior drop and impact protection in addition to the critical non-incendive safety certification, making them ideal for plant maintenance, asset management, and operational oversight.

Installation & Field Use Best Practices

Proper installation and maintenance are critical to ensuring the continued safety and compliance of your intrinsically safe case. Failure to adhere to manufacturer guidelines can void the certification and create a serious safety risk. Always begin by thoroughly cleaning the electronic device to remove any debris. Carefully place the device inside the case as per the instruction manual, ensuring a snug fit. Securely fasten all latches, screws, and sealing components, verifying that a complete seal has been achieved. Once installed, the case should never be opened or tampered with inside a designated hazardous area. Regular field inspection for any signs of damage, such as cracks in the housing or deterioration of the seals, is a vital best practice. If any damage is found, the unit must be removed from the hazardous area immediately and repaired or replaced.

FAQs on Safety Certifications

Navigating safety certifications can be complex. Here are answers to some common questions:

• Can I use any rugged case in a hazardous area?
  No. Only cases that have been specifically tested and certified to standards like ATEX or Class I Division 2 are permitted. A standard ‘rugged’ or ‘military-grade’ case offers no protection against causing an ignition.
• What is the difference between an Intrinsically Safe case and an Explosion-Proof enclosure?
  Intrinsic Safety (IS) is a prevention technique that limits the energy of the electronics to a level too low to cause an ignition. Explosion-Proof (XP) is a containment technique where the enclosure is built to withstand and contain an internal explosion, preventing it from igniting the surrounding atmosphere. Cases for mobile devices utilize the principle of intrinsic safety/non-incendive design.
• Are these certifications recognized worldwide?
  Certifications are regional. ATEX is the standard for the European Union, while the Class/Division system is used in North America. IECEx is an international standard that helps streamline the certification process across countries, but local compliance is still often required. Always select a case with the correct certification for your operational region.
• Is it safe to charge the device in the case while in a hazardous area?
  Absolutely not. Charging introduces a higher level of electrical energy that is not intrinsically safe. All charging of the device must be performed in a designated safe, non-hazardous area.