COURSE OVERVIEW:

Maintaining the integrity of electrical equipment in environments containing flammable gases or dust is a specialized task that requires meticulous technical precision. This course provides a practical deep-dive into the maintenance requirements for certified explosion-protected (Ex) equipment. Participants will explore the mechanics of different protection concepts and learn how routine maintenance actions can accidentally compromise the safety of a hazardous area if not performed correctly.

The scope of this training addresses the practical field skills needed to maintain flameproof (Ex d), increased safety (Ex e), and intrinsically safe (Ex i) equipment. It covers the technical nuances of managing flame paths, sealing gaskets, and cable entry systems to prevent internal ignitions from reaching the surrounding atmosphere. The curriculum provides a systematic focus on the inspection standards defined by IEC 60079-17, providing a framework for identifying degradation and mechanical failures in Ex-rated assets.

Coverage includes the interpretation of certification labels and the application of repair standards for specialized equipment like Ex motors and switchgear. Attendees will learn to utilize non-sparking tools and specialized diagnostic equipment to perform inspections without creating new hazards. By combining theoretical knowledge of combustion physics with hands-on maintenance protocols, the course equips professionals with the expertise required to ensure that electrical systems remain safe and compliant throughout their operational life in hazardous zones.

COURSE OBJECTIVES:

After completion of this course, the participants will be able to:

• Define the technical characteristics of explosive gases and dusts.
• Identify different "Ex" protection concepts and their maintenance needs.
• Interpret certification markings and equipment labels accurately.
• Perform detailed inspections of flameproof (Ex d) enclosures.
• Maintain the integrity of increased safety (Ex e) terminal connections.
• Execute proper maintenance on intrinsically safe (Ex i) circuits and barriers.
• Inspect and maintain specialized cable glands and entry systems.
• Identify early signs of corrosion and mechanical damage in Ex equipment.
• Utilize the correct tools and materials for Ex-rated repairs.
• Conduct "Initial," "Periodic," and "Sample" inspections professionally.
• Document maintenance findings in the Hazardous Area Verification Dossier.
• Comply with safety permit-to-work requirements in hazardous zones.

TARGET AUDIENCE:

This course is intended for Maintenance Electricians, Instrument Technicians, Site Supervisors, and Inspectors working in oil, gas, chemical, and petrochemical facilities.

TRAINING COURSE METHODOLOGY:

A highly interactive combination of lectures, discussion sessions, and case studies will be employed to maximize the transfer of information, knowledge, and experience. The course will be intensive, practical, and highly interactive. The sessions will start by raising the most relevant questions and motivating everybody to find the right answers. The attendants will also be encouraged to raise more of their questions and to share in developing the right answers using their analysis and experience. There will also be some indoor experiential activities to enhance the learning experience. Course material will be provided in PowerPoint, with necessary animations, learning videos, and general discussions.

The course participants shall be evaluated before, during, and at the end of the course.

COURSE CERTIFICATE:

National Consultant Centre for Training LLC (NCC) will issue an Attendance Certificate to all participants completing a minimum of 80% of the total attendance time requirement.