Explosion Proof Camera: How To Choose The Right Solution

Explosion Proof Camera Selection Guide For Industrial Applications

In hazardous industrial environments, choosing the right explosion proof camera involves more than comparing image quality, resolution, or device durability. The right camera should be suitable for the specific working environment, meet required safety certifications, and support reliable performance during inspections, maintenance activities, and field operations.

From understanding ATEX and IECEx requirements to evaluating protection ratings, camera performance, and long-term usability, knowing the key selection factors helps businesses choose a device that is built for both safety and demanding industrial applications.

Understand Your Hazardous Area Requirements Before Choosing A Camera

Before evaluating an explosion proof camera, it is important to identify the operating environment and safety requirements of the worksite. Industries such as oil & gas, petrochemical, and manufacturing require devices that are designed for hazardous areas where standard cameras are not suitable.

1. Identify The Required Hazardous Area Classification

Hazardous areas are classified into different zones based on the type and frequency of explosive atmospheres. For gas and vapour environments, equipment requirements are commonly defined under Zone 0, Zone 1, and Zone 2 classifications.

For areas involving combustible dust, classifications such as Zone 20, Zone 21, and Zone 22 are used. Before selecting an explosion proof camera, the required zone rating should match the actual working environment.

2. Check The Required Explosion Protection Certification

Explosion proof cameras used in hazardous areas should comply with recognised certification standards such as ATEX and IECEx certifications. These certifications define where the device can be safely operated based on explosion protection methods, equipment groups, and temperature classifications.

Learn more about ATEX and IECEx certification for explosion-proof devices and how these standards apply to industrial equipment selection.

3. Consider The Actual Site Conditions

Field environments such as refineries, chemical plants, and industrial facilities often involve harsh operating conditions beyond explosion risks. Factors such as water exposure, dust, impact, vibration and temperature range should be reviewed when selecting a camera device.

4. Determine The Intended Camera Application

Different industrial tasks require different camera capabilities. Site inspections, equipment maintenance, asset documentation, and field reporting may require specific features such as high-resolution imaging, reliable storage, and efficient data transfer.

Evaluate The Technical Specifications Of An Explosion Proof Camera

After confirming the required safety standards, technical specifications should be reviewed based on how the camera will be used in real industrial operations. When comparing explosion proof cameras, each specification should be evaluated based on the demands of industrial applications.

1. Imaging Capability And Inspection Requirement

The required camera performance depends on how the device will be used on-site. Industrial inspections may require high-resolution imaging, accurate detail capture, and reliable performance in different lighting conditions for equipment checks, maintenance records, and operational documentation.

2. Device Protection And Industrial Durability

Beyond explosion protection, the camera should be designed for challenging field conditions. Important specifications include IP protection rating, impact resistance, operating temperature range, and construction materials suitable for industrial usage.

3. Communication And Data Transfer Capability

Field data management is an important consideration when selecting an explosion proof camera. Connectivity options such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and data transfer capabilities allow captured information to be managed efficiently across inspection and operational workflows.

4. Field Operation And User Experience

Field usability is another important consideration when evaluating an explosion proof camera. Specifications such as display size, glove operation, programmable buttons, battery configuration, device weight, and ergonomic design should be assessed based on daily operational requirements.

Which Explosion Proof Camera Fits Your Operational Requirements?

Evaluation Criteria	ARMADEX OZC 3	SP104Ex	SP9EX1
Certification	ATEX Zone 2	ATEX & IECEx Zone 1 / 21	ATEX & IECEx Zone 0 / 1 / 21 + NEC Division 1
Camera Resolution	12MP	50MP	48MP
Video Recording	4K UHD	–	4K UHD
Inspection Features	4 x Optical Zoom, Super Macro, Low-Light Optimisation	Auto Focus	Auto Focus, Barcode Scanning
Protection Rating	IP68	IP68	IP68 + MIL-STD-810H
Drop/ Impact Protection	2.1m Drop, Crushproof	1.2m Drop	MIL-STD-810H
Operating temperature	Down to -10°C	-20°C to + 55°C	-20°C to + 55°C
Wireless Connectivity	Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.2	Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.1, NFC	Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.1, NFC
Field Usability	Lightweight (249g), Peli Case Included	Glove Mode, Removable Battery, PTT & SOS Buttons	Glove Support, Programmable Buttons,

Choosing Beyond Specifications

Technical specifications are only one part of selecting the right explosion proof camera. Long-term, reliability, product support, and compatibility with existing operations should also be considered before deployment.

1. Product Lifecycle And Long-Term Availability

Industrial devices are often deployed for extended periods. Consider the availability of software updates, replacement parts, accessories, and long-term product support to minimise operational disruption throughout the device lifecycle.

2. Compatibility With Existing Operations

An explosion proof camera should integrate smoothly with existing inspection processes, reporting systems, and industrial workflows. Compatibility with software applications, data management systems, and communication platforms can improve operational efficiency.

3. Technical Support And After-Sales Service

Access to local technical support, warranty services, and product expertise can be equally important as the device specifications. Timely assistance helps reduce downtime and provides confidence when deploying equipment in hazardous environments.

4. Future Expansion And Scalability

For organisations managing multiple sites or expanding operations, selecting a solution that can be standardised across teams simplifies device management and user training, and future procurement.

Consult Safetech Mobility to identify the most suitable explosion proof camera for your hazardous area application.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can an explosion proof camera be used in every hazardous area?

No. Explosion proof cameras are certified for specific hazardous area classifications. Always verify that the device’s ATEX or IECEx certification matches the required gas or dust zone before deployment.

2. Should I choose a standalone explosion proof camera or an explosion proof smartphone?

The choice depends on the application. A standalone explosion proof camera is designed for dedicated image capture and inspections, while an explosion proof smartphone combines imaging, communication, and industrial applications in a single device.

3. Can the same explosion proof camera be used for different inspection tasks?

It depends on the inspection requirements. Routine visual inspections, detailed asset documentation, barcode scanning, and remote technical support may require different camera capabilities. Selecting a device based on the intended inspection workflow helps ensure it supports the required field activities.