Competency requirements for explosion-proof electrical designers

Thread Content

Design is the foundation of the whole-life cycle management of explosion-proof electrical equipment. It not only establishes the minimum compliance standards for equipment selection, but also directly affects the feasibility of implementation during construction as well as the convenience of operation and maintenance. It serves as the cornerstone for ensuring the safe operation of such devices in explosive environments. Personnel engaged in the design and selection of explosion-proof electrical equipment should undergo specialized training and continuing education in this field, and must possess the following knowledge and skills: 1. Person in charge: Senior executives of enterprises/organizations responsible for design, selection, and installation a) Have a general understanding of the relevant electrical engineering ； b) Understand and possess the ability to read and evaluate engineering drawings ； c) Understanding explosion-proof principles and explosion-proof technologies ； d) Master job-related knowledge and understand the standards in the field of explosion protection ； e) Master the basic knowledge of quality assurance, including audit principles, traceability of documents, measurements, and instrument calibration. Such personnel should be limited to managing qualified operators who are responsible for selection and installation. When such personnel also meet the competency requirements for operators/technicians (regarding selection and installation) stipulated in Article 4.4.2.3 of GB 3836.15—2024 “Explosive atmospheres – Part 15: Rules for the design, selection and installation of electrical equipment”, they may directly engage in the selection and installation of explosion-proof equipment. 2. Designers (design and selection) a) Have a thorough understanding of the basic principles of explosion protection ； b) Have a thorough understanding of the basic principles and markings of explosion-proof types ； c) Have a thorough understanding of the factors in equipment design that affect explosion-proof performance ； d) Have a thorough understanding of the explosion-proof certification and the relevant provisions of this document ； e) Proficient in the practical skills related to the preparation and installation of explosion-proof types ； f) Thorough understanding of the importance of the work permit system and detailed knowledge of safety isolation related to explosion prevention ； g) In-depth knowledge of the equipment selection and the special techniques employed in installation as mentioned in this document ； h) Generally understand the inspection and maintenance requirements stipulated in GB 3836.16—2024 “Explosive atmospheres – Part 16: Inspection and maintenance of electrical installations”. References: GB 3836.15—2024 Explosive atmospheres – Part 15: Code for design, selection, and installation of electrical equipment.