Hazardous Area Design Consultation
CompEx supported design input for safe, compliant Ex installations

DSEAR and Hazardous Area Planning
We structure design decisions around hazardous area risks and site controls.

Standards-Led Design Input
We align electrical design and installation intent with BS EN 60079-14 guidance for design, selection and erection.

Maintainability Built In
Cable routes, containment, access, isolation, labelling, and documentation designed for long-term inspection and maintenance.

Clear Outputs for Decision Makers
A practical scope, equipment schedule, risks, assumptions, and next steps that dutyholders can action.
Plan Ex work properly, first time
Good Ex design reduces risk, cost, and downtime
Hazardous area electrical work is different because the installation must reduce ignition risk, not just “work”. HSE highlights that equipment and installations in potentially explosive atmospheres must be specially designed and constructed to eliminate or reduce ignition risks.
Our design consultation supports projects where you need clear answers before committing to installation, for example:
- you are adding new plant or making changes in a zoned area
- you are upgrading ageing Ex equipment and want to standardise
- you are expanding production, storage, or process systems
- you need a structured route from concept to install, inspection, and maintenance
What we provide, in practical terms
Depending on your site and scope, consultation can include:
- site walkdown and feasibility review
- capacity and distribution overview, what the site can support now, what is needed later
- design input on routing, containment, mechanical protection, and access for inspection
- equipment selection support, matching equipment to the area classification and dutyholder requirements
- layout suggestions for isolators, junction points, glanding locations, and safe access
- documentation support, what you should have ready for installation and ongoing inspection
Hazardous area classification and documentation
Hazardous area classification is the process of assessing the probability and duration of a flammable atmosphere to decide whether special protective features are needed. If you already have drawings and an Ex register, we design to them. If you do not, we will tell you what is missing and help you coordinate the right inputs before work starts.
Designing for inspection and maintenance
HSE lists BS EN 60079-17 as the standard for inspection and maintenance of electrical installations in explosive atmospheres.
We design with that reality in mind, so future inspections are practical and defects are less likely.
Call us today: 01698 883232
Get a quote for hazardous area design consultation
Tell us what you are changing, where it is, and what the site needs to keep running, we’ll recommend the right design support and next steps.
Email: info@wbelectrical.co.uk
CompEx supported design input, practical outputs, clear scope.
Where hazardous area design consultation makes sense
Design consultation is most valuable where Ex work must be planned carefully around risk, permits, and live operations. It helps you avoid over-engineering, reduce rework, and build an install that is maintainable and inspection-friendly.
Distilleries and bonded warehouses
Process upgrades, tank areas, and storage changes benefit from early design input, especially around routing, access, and standardising equipment for future maintenance.
Chemical and pharmaceutical sites
Documentation and change control are key. Consultation supports traceable decisions, consistent selection, and a cleaner route from design to installation and inspection.
Paint, coating and spray areas
Harsh conditions and frequent changes can degrade equipment quickly. Design input focuses on sealing integrity, safe isolation, and practical access that reduces repeat defects.
Biomass and wood processing facilities
Dust, vibration, and mechanical handling can damage containment and entries. Consultation helps build robust routes and protection, while keeping inspection access realistic.
Fuel storage and dispensing areas
Corrosion, impact risk, and operational sensitivity make planning essential. Consultation supports safe layouts, sensible isolation points, and durable installation details.
Waste, recycling and AD facilities
These sites are tough on equipment. Consultation helps minimise downtime by planning phased works, robust containment, and practical maintenance access.
Water and wastewater treatment sites
Damp environments increase ingress and corrosion issues. Consultation helps select suitable approaches and plan routing that remains serviceable long term.
Manufacturing and process lines
Frequent additions and alterations cause “site creep”. Consultation creates a standard approach that keeps modifications consistent, documentable, and maintainable.
Hazardous Area Design Consultation across Scotland
Plan Ex work properly, reduce risk, and avoid rework
Send your site details and we’ll recommend a practical design route aligned to Ex standards, with clear outputs for dutyholders and project teams.
Trusted Electrical Experts
Fully Accredited & Fully Compliant
Our engineers are trained to the highest standards and certified across key industry schemes. Giving you peace of mind that your electrical systems are in safe hands.
Got a question about Hazardous Area Design Consultation?
Ask our expert team and we’ll help you define the safest, most practical route to delivery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Other services you may be interested in

Hazardous Area Installations
CompEx certified installs, additions, and alterations on live industrial sites.

Hazardous Area Inspection and Testing
Standards-aligned inspections with clear defect reporting and priorities.

Hazardous Area Planned and Reactive Maintenance
Planned visits plus controlled reactive support to close defects and protect uptime.
Locations we cover
Central Scotland and beyond, including Glasgow, Edinburgh, East Kilbride, Hamilton, Motherwell, Airdrie, Coatbridge, Livingston, Bathgate, Falkirk, Stirling, Cumbernauld, Paisley, Renfrew, Clydebank, Dumbarton, Greenock, Ayr, Kilmarnock, Dunfermline, Kirkcaldy, Perth