The Importance of a Hazardous Location Certificate of Compliance in South Africa
In industrial environments where flammable gases, vapours, or combustible dust may be present, electrical installations must meet strict safety requirements. Under South Africa’s Occupational Health and Safety Act (Act 85 of 1993), employers are legally obligated to provide and maintain a working environment that is safe and without risk to the health of employees.
In hazardous locations, this obligation extends directly to electrical installations.
Legal Framework Governing Hazardous Locations
The following legislation and standards are particularly relevant:
Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHS Act 85 of 1993)
Electrical Machinery Regulations (EMR)
SANS 10142-1 (Wiring Code)
SANS 60079 Series (Explosive Atmospheres)
Section 8 of the OHS Act requires employers to ensure, as far as reasonably practicable, that plant and machinery are safe and without risk. Electrical installations in hazardous locations fall squarely within this requirement.
What Is a Hazardous Location Certificate of Compliance?
A Hazardous Location Certificate of Compliance confirms that electrical installations within classified areas (Zone 0, 1, 2 / 20, 21, 22) comply with applicable standards, particularly SANS 60079.
It verifies that:
Equipment is suitable for the classified zone
Temperature class and EPL ratings are correct
Installation methods meet SANS 60079-14
Inspection grading complies with SANS 60079-17
Earthing and bonding are adequate
Intrinsically safe circuits are properly designed and verified
This certificate serves as documented evidence of compliance with both statutory and technical requirements.
Why It Is Critically Important?
1. Legal Compliance Under the OHS Act
The OHS Act places the responsibility for workplace safety on the employer. If an electrical installation in a hazardous area causes an explosion due to non-compliance, the employer can be held liable.
A Hazardous Location CoC demonstrates due diligence and reasonable practicability as required under the Act.
2. Electrical Machinery Regulations (EMR)
The EMR requires that electrical installations be constructed and maintained in a safe condition. Non-compliant Ex installations constitute a direct breach of these regulations.
3. Insurance & Risk Management
Most industrial insurers require evidence of compliance for hazardous installations.
In the absence of proper certification, insurers may:
Repudiate claims
Impose higher premiums
Require costly remedial audits
A valid certificate mitigates financial and operational risk.
4. Protection of Life and Assets
Hazardous locations present ignition risks from electrical sparks, hot surfaces, static discharge, or mechanical faults.
Proper inspection and certification ensures:
Explosion prevention
Equipment suitability
Reduced likelihood of catastrophic failure
5. Audit & Regulatory Readiness
Industrial facilities are subject to periodic inspections from:
Department of Employment and Labour
Insurance auditors
Internal SHEQ audits
A structured compliance process, supported by a Hazardous Location CoC and Ex dossier documentation, ensures readiness at all times.
Conclusion
A Hazardous Location Certificate of Compliance is not merely a document — it is a critical component of legal compliance, risk management, and industrial safety.
Under the Occupational Health and Safety Act and associated regulations, employers are obligated to ensure that hazardous installations are safe and properly maintained. Certification provides documented evidence that reasonable measures have been taken to prevent ignition risks and protect both personnel and infrastructure.
For facilities operating in classified environments, proactive compliance is not optional — it is a statutory requirement.