What is Intrinsic Safety?
Table of Contents
How Intrinsically Safe Devices Protect Lone Workers in Hazardous Environments
Why intrinsic safety matters for lone workers
Examples of intrinsically safe equipment
Benefits of intrinsically safe devices
Who certifies intrinsic safety?
Using Intrinsically Safe Devices with the SafetyLine Lone Worker
Next steps: protecting your lone workers in hazardous zones
How Intrinsically Safe Devices Protect Lone Workers in Hazardous Environments
In hazardous work environments—like oil & gas sites, chemical plants, and mines—even a small spark can lead to catastrophic explosions. This is where intrinsic safety (IS) becomes essential.
Intrinsic safety is a protection method used in potentially explosive atmospheres. It involves limiting the electrical and thermal energy of devices so they cannot ignite hazardous atmospheric mixtures. From gas detectors to smartphones, intrinsically safe equipment is designed to keep workers—and their environments—safe.
Why intrinsic safety matters for lone workers
Lone workers operating in isolated, high-risk areas often depend on technology to stay connected and safe. But using standard electronic equipment in these environments can be dangerous.
Intrinsic safety ensures:
Devices won't generate sparks or heat that could ignite flammable gases or vapors.
Operations in explosive zones (Zones 0, 1, and 2) meet international safety standards.
Worker safety remains a top priority without compromising communication or efficiency.
Examples of intrinsically safe equipment
There’s a wide range of intrinsically safe tools available for hazardous industries, including:
Smartphones and two-way radios
Gas detectors
Cameras and flashlights
Tablets and barcode scanners
For companies that rely on smartphones, intrinsically safe cases are available for the latest iPhone and Android models—an affordable alternative to purpose-built IS devices.
Benefits of intrinsically safe devices
Using IS-certified devices in hazardous areas offers significant advantages:
✅ Protects workers and nearby teams from explosion risks.
✅ Avoids the need for bulky explosion-proof enclosures.
✅ Minimizes downtime—maintenance can be performed without shutting down production.
✅ Lowers insurance costs by demonstrating reduced workplace risk.
✅ Improves compliance with safety regulations and standards.
Who certifies intrinsic safety?
Intrinsically safe equipment must meet rigorous standards, verified by third-party testing organizations. These include:
Certifications may vary by region, so it’s important to verify your equipment complies with local requirements like ATEX (Europe) or Class/Division standards (North America).
Using intrinsically safe devices with the SafetyLine Lone W+orker
At SafetyLine, we understand the unique challenges faced by lone workers in extreme or hazardous environments. That’s why our Lone Worker Safety App can be deployed on:
IS-certified smartphones like Sonim® XP10 and ECOM Smart-Ex devices
Regular smartphones protected by IS-rated cases (e.g., iPhone/Android)
Our recommended partner, Sonim Technologies, offers ultra-rugged, intrinsically safe devices built for high-risk environments. These devices pair seamlessly with the SafetyLine app—so your lone workers stay connected and protected at all times.
Next steps: protecting your lone workers in hazardous zones
Understanding intrinsic safety is just one step in building a safer work environment. If your team works in explosive or hazardous conditions, it’s time to upgrade to intrinsically safe solutions that integrate with your existing lone worker safety protocols.
Ready to learn more?
Understanding intrinsic safety is crucial for hazardous environments. Enhance your safety protocols with our Lone Worker Safety Solution App and explore our pricing options. Visit our FAQ page for more information and discover the benefits of our solutions. Check out the latest lone worker safety devices to keep your team protected.
Get in touch with us today to schedule a free consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What does intrinsically safe mean?
A: It refers to equipment designed to prevent ignition in explosive environments by limiting electrical and thermal energy.
Q: Are smartphones intrinsically safe?
A: Not by default. However, intrinsically safe smartphones or certified protective cases are available.
Q: What industries require intrinsically safe equipment?
A: Common industries include oil & gas, mining, utilities, pharmaceuticals, and chemical manufacturing.
Q: What’s the difference between explosion-proof and intrinsically safe?
A: Explosion-proof equipment contains explosions within a casing. Intrinsically safe equipment prevents ignition altogether by limiting energy output.