"Flammable refrigerators" or "lab safe refrigerators" as they are sometimes called are intrinsically safe (no source of ignition) on the inside only. They are suitable for typical
labs and hive a standard plug to the wall power.
"Explosion proof" fridges are intrinsically safe inside and the components on the outside are housed in intrinsically safe housings as well. They will not provide a source of ignition in the event of a spill outside the fridge. They are intended for high
hazard occupancies where the quantities may exceed the building code limits. They are hard wired in electrical conduit into the house wiring and do not just plug into the wall receptacle.
Both are suitable for storage of flammable liquids. The "explosion proof" type is overkill for an ordinary lab because there is usually other equipment present that is not intrinsically safe that could ignite a spill outside the refrigerator.
Chris
Lab Safety Manager
Indiana University
From: DCHAS-L Discussion List [dchas-l**At_Symbol_Here**med.cornell.edu] on behalf of Wayne Phan [Wayne.Phan**At_Symbol_Here**POMONA.EDU]
Sent: Friday, September 27, 2013 6:33 PM
To: DCHAS-L**At_Symbol_Here**med.cornell.edu
Subject: [DCHAS-L] flammable refrigerator vs. Explosion proof refrigerator
Hi,
What is the difference between flammable refrigerator vs. Explosion proof refrigerator? Which one do you recommend for storing mostly flammable chemical.
Thanks!
Wayne
