Electrical Hazardous Area Classification studies are performed to establish location and severely of industrial process and storage areas containing flammable and combustible materials.  The work defines the specific hazardous Class, Division, and Group in accordance with NFPA Standards so the appropriate electrical wiring methods, devices and equipment can be designed or identified within the area of study.

Hazardous Area Classification Studies are performed by a team of engineers (typically a process engineer and electrical engineer) and may include client personnel and others knowledgeable of the process and operating procedures.  The team analyses the process, the ambient conditions, materials handled and stored (including material Safety Data Sheets), equipment, operations, maintenance, electrical safety procedures.   The resulting data determines the basis for defining the area classification and boundaries to create the documentation such as a written report or drawings.