Handhole for Class I Div 1

[voltsOO6]

Got a question about Class I Div 1; I need to install a handhole adjacent to a manufacturing facility. The client indicates that below grade in the area where the handhole is to be installed is Class I Div 1. I don't see any handholes specically rated for Class I Div1. Are handholes not rated and explosionproof seals required inside the handhole or is nothing required since I'm not going above ground at the handhole?

 

[EEJaime]

Handholes won't be rated. Any area below grade within a class I,DivI area is also required to be treated as a class I, Div I atmosphere. Any conduit passing into and out of the handhole must be sealed where it leaves the rated area, if it enters a building for example, a shop that is not rated, then where the conduit comes up out of the slab, it must have an EYS immediately after exiting the rated area, (usually at +18" aff in a repair shop for example). When the other end of the conduit exits to a panel or piece of equipment, it must also be sealed. I have used seals at manhole walls where the conduit feeds into a basement, etc.... The handhole or manhole or pull box will not have a rating as far as I know.

Hope that helps.

EEJaime

 

[resqcapt19]

Jamie,
What about 501.10(A)(3) that requires all boxes and fittings installed in a Class I, Division 1 area to be approved for Class I, Division 1?