Hazardous Location

[govender1]

I have a battery room that houses 53 lead acid cells of 2.2Vper cell and 214 amp-hour. I would like to know if this installation must be considered an Hazardous Location. What constitutes an hazardous location?

Thanks

 

[AFab]

Any flamable vapours or gas is Class 1 Div 1 and must be installed by your applicable codes

 

[dbaird]

NEC article 480 pertains to batteries (USA). You should review with battery manufacturer for installation recommendations but I would believe, at minimum, special ventilation and/or air handling precautions should be observed. Refer to:

http://www.cholaaxa.com/Risk Note on Explosion Risks in Battery Rooms.pdf

David Baird
mrbaird@hotmail.com

Sr Controls Engineer

EET degree.

Journeyman Electrician.

 

[jbartos]

Comment: The release of hydrogen from lead acid can cause an explosion if a certain concentration materializes. Therefore, reliable ventilation is required. In some cases, the battery room large openings or large open windows may suffice. The calculation of the hydrogen concentration should be performed.
IEEE Std 484 in 5.1.4 Ventilation states "The battery area shall be ventilated, either by a natural or induced ventilation system, to prevent accumulation of hydrogen and to maintain designed temperature. ..."