Reduce Explosion Risk in Dust Zones with the Right Lighting

Published by Pacific Automation on 23rd Jan 2026

In many industrial sites, dust isn’t just a housekeeping issue, it’s an explosion risk, so selecting the correct lighting greatly helps to reduce risk and keep workers safe.

Whether you’re working in food processing, grain or coal handling, timber, or manufacturing. Airborne dust and enclosed spaces can create dangerous conditions fast. 

That’s why getting your lighting right matters. 

 

What causes dust explosions?

There are five key factors: 

  1. Combustible dust 

  1. Air (oxygen) 

  1. An ignition source – like a spark or hot surface 

  1. Dust dispersion (suspended in air) 

  1. Confinement (a space that traps pressure) 

You can’t remove the dust entirely, but you can remove ignition sources. That’s where certified lighting makes the difference. 

 

Understanding Zone 20, 21 and 22

Dust zones are classified based on how often an explosive dust atmosphere is present: 

  • Zone 20: Dust is present continuously or for long periods (e.g. inside silos). 

  • Zone 21: Dust is likely to occur during normal operation (e.g. around conveyors, transfer points). 

  • Zone 22: Dust is not likely during normal operation, but may occur briefly (e.g. near ducting or storage areas). 

 

The cost of getting it wrong

Dust explosions don’t just put people at risk, they can cause serious downtime, equipment damage, and expensive investigations. 

Even small ignition events can: 

  • Shut down production 

  • Damage equipment or infrastructure 

  • Trigger audits, fines, and cleanup costs 

Using uncertified or unsuitable lighting in a dust zone isn’t worth the risk. 

Raytec SPARTAN: Built for Hazardous Dust Zones

The Raytec SPARTAN range is designed for industrial environments where explosive dust is a known hazard. Every model is IECEx certified, built for tough conditions, and engineered to reduce maintenance and risk over time. 

Available models include: 

  • SPARTAN Floodlights: Ideal for large areas, both indoor and outdoor. Available in standard and high-power outputs. 

  • SPARTAN Linear (Batten Lights): Compact, energy-efficient lighting for walkways, production lines, and enclosed areas. 

  • SPARTAN Bulkheads: Small form factor lights for entries, exits, and tight spaces. 

  • Emergency Options: Integrated backup ensures safe visibility during outages or shutdowns. 

All SPARTAN lights are: 

  • IECEx certified for use in Zone 21 and 22 dust environments (and gas zones where applicable) 

  • Made from marine-grade aluminium for corrosion resistance 

  • Modular in design, making them easier to install and maintain 

Why choose Raytec from Pacific Automation?

Pacific Automation stocks a wide range of IECEx-certified Raytec lighting locally, so you get faster delivery and less downtime waiting on gear. Our team understands the demands of industrial sites and can help you choose the right model for your application, whether you need long-lasting floodlights, compact battens, or emergency-ready bulkheads. We back it with practical support, technical know-how, and a focus on getting you the right product, on time. 

Get in touch today to find the right lighting for your site.