Unsafe Acts in Hazardous Locations

A single unsafe act could cause the obliteration of the entire facility and everyone present.

Sept. 4, 2018

A single unsafe act in a hazardous location can render all the Code compliance moot. Typically, death or injury from the unsafe act is confined to the person committing the act. Sometimes, a single unsafe act can cause the obliteration of the entire facility and everyone present.

Smoking is unsafe in any location. Smoking in a hazardous location puts an ignition source where ignitibles and/or combustibles pose a threat to everyone.
Don’t use tools not authorized for the location. It’s inconvenient to walk to the tool crib for a brass wrench for use in that Class I, Division 1 location. But taping your steel wrench or “being careful” will not prevent a spark; using a brass wrench will. Also, consider personal electronic gear (e.g., phone, radio) when working in these areas.
Connecting a non-current carrying metal equipment frame to a ground rod does not eliminate a difference of potential. Always bond, rather than ground, equipment on the load side (regardless of classification).

About the Author

Mark Lamendola

Mark is an expert in maintenance management, having racked up an impressive track record during his time working in the field. He also has extensive knowledge of, and practical expertise with, the National Electrical Code (NEC). Through his consulting business, he provides articles and training materials on electrical topics, specializing in making difficult subjects easy to understand and focusing on the practical aspects of electrical work.

Prior to starting his own business, Mark served as the Technical Editor on EC&M for six years, worked three years in nuclear maintenance, six years as a contract project engineer/project manager, three years as a systems engineer, and three years in plant maintenance management.

Mark earned an AAS degree from Rock Valley College, a BSEET from Columbia Pacific University, and an MBA from Lake Erie College. He’s also completed several related certifications over the years and even was formerly licensed as a Master Electrician. He is a Senior Member of the IEEE and past Chairman of the Kansas City Chapters of both the IEEE and the IEEE Computer Society. Mark also served as the program director for, a board member of, and webmaster of, the Midwest Chapter of the 7x24 Exchange. He has also held memberships with the following organizations: NETA, NFPA, International Association of Webmasters, and Institute of Certified Professional Managers.