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IEC standard 60079 is an international standard developed by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) that specifies the requirements for the design, construction, and testing of electrical equipment for use in explosive atmospheres. This standard is crucial for industries where the risk of explosions due to the presence of flammable gases, vapors, or dust is significant, such as oil and gas, chemical processing, and mining.

The standard covers a wide range of equipment, including electrical apparatus, wiring systems, and protective systems. It defines different zones based on the likelihood of an explosive atmosphere being present and the potential consequences of an explosion. These zones range from Zone 0, where an explosive atmosphere is continuously present, to Zone 2, where an explosive atmosphere is unlikely to occur and where it does occur, it will exist only in rare transient situations.

IEC 60079 also specifies the types of protection that equipment must provide to prevent the ignition of explosive atmospheres. These include intrinsic safety, flameproof enclosures, increased safety, and other protective measures. The standard outlines the testing procedures and performance criteria that equipment must meet to ensure it is safe for use in explosive atmospheres.

Adherence to IEC 60079 is essential for ensuring the safety of personnel and the integrity of equipment in hazardous environments. Compliance with this standard helps prevent accidents, reduces the risk of explosions, and ensures that electrical equipment operates reliably and safely in potentially explosive conditions.