API RP 2003: Protection Against Ignitions Arising Out of Static, Lightning, and Stray Currents

[Chemitofreak]

API RP 2003 is not required under the following conditions:

a) Static discharges may occur, but flammable vapors are always excluded by gas freeing or inerting the atmosphere in the area of discharge.

b) Product handling occurs in a closed system, and oxygen in that system is always below the minimum concentration required to support combustion, such as in the handling of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG).

c) The flammable concentration is always above the upper flammable limit (UFL)

Points b) and c) are self explanatory, can anyone explain point a).

Thanks in advance.

 

[bimr]

Gas Freeing are operations performed in testing, evaluating, removing or controlling hazardous materials or conditions, within or related to a confined or enclosed spaces, which may present hazards to personnel entering or working in, on or adjacent to the space. Flammable vapors are not present because of the removal of gas.

Inerting the atmosphere in the area of discharge is the use of a nitrogen blanket.