In the oil and gas, chemical, and mining industries, risk is part of daily operations. These sectors operate in explosive environments where flammable gases, vapors, combustible dust, and extreme temperatures are constantly present.
In such locations, a simple spark, overheating, or electrical failure can lead to loss of life, destruction of equipment, production downtime, regulatory fines, and environmental damage.
These incidents are not rare. The Spill Tracker Project recorded 132 petrochemical incidents in 2024, including leaks, fires, and explosions, an average of one accident every three days. According to the IOGP (International Association of Oil & Gas Producers), “explosion, fire, or burns” were the leading causes of fatalities in the North American oil and gas sector in 2024, accounting for around 41% of reported deaths.
These figures highlight how critical prevention is in these environments. To achieve that, it is essential to adopt robust, explosion-proof certified technologies that ensure continuous monitoring and enable preventive action.
Below, we explore how these technologies work and how they contribute to safety and operational efficiency in classified hazardous areas.
How explosion-proof technologies work
Industries operating in hazardous zones, known as EX areas, rely on equipment specifically designed to function safely where flammable substances are present. These technologies are engineered to prevent the device from becoming an ignition source.
Among the most commonly used devices in critical infrastructures are:
- EX cameras, designed for surveillance and monitoring in hazardous environments;
- Gas, smoke, and flame detectors, which provide early incident detection;
- EX junction boxes, emergency buttons, and enclosures, essential for protecting electrical circuits;
- Certified lighting and fixtures, ensuring visibility without ignition risk;
- EX-rated loudspeakers and alarm systems, used for evacuation and emergency communication.
Each of these devices is certified under international standards such as ATEX, IECEx, and UL, which define safety classifications, protection types, and resistance levels.
The importance of EX cameras in these scenarios
EX cameras play a crucial role in preventing incidents in environments with explosion risks.
Designed to operate safely in critical conditions, they provide continuous monitoring of hazardous zones, detecting early signs of smoke, leaks, overheating, or abnormal movement, enabling immediate responses before situations escalate.
The robust design of EX cameras makes them indispensable. Their housings are made from reinforced metal, usually stainless steel or high-density aluminum, capable of containing internal explosions and preventing heat or flames from spreading externally.
In addition, their electrical components are engineered to limit internal energy, reducing the risk of sparks or overheating. EX cameras also feature complete sealing against gases, vapors, and dust, offering resistance to corrosion, harsh weather, and extreme temperature variations.
Strategic partnership with Axis Communications
As a Gold Partner of Axis Communications, Aeon Security offers a comprehensive portfolio of explosion-proof certified equipment, including cameras, loudspeakers, and installation accessories designed for classified environments.
Axis Communications is a global leader in network video and audio technologies, recognized for the reliability and precision of its products. Its EX cameras are fully certified for use worldwide, with classifications Class I/II/III Div. 1 and 2, and Zones 1, 2, 21, and 22, ensuring compliance with the most rigorous international safety standards.
These devices feature integrated intelligent analytics, such as smoke, heat, and motion detection, and are fully compatible with industrial monitoring and automation systems. The result is a comprehensive and precise view of operations, enabling faster decision-making and greater efficiency.
Prevention is an investment in continuity
In a context of increasing risks, investing in explosion-proof certified technologies is a strategic choice to ensure business continuity, as well as the safety of assets and personnel.
Would you like to learn more about our EX-certified technologies? Contact us: sales@aeon-security.com