13.06 What is intrinsically safe wiring?

Intrinsically safe wiring is a method of operating instruments, sensors, and devices in the hazardous electrical areas around flammable and combustible liquids and gases. Essentially, the electronics within the control panel limit the amount of energy through the wiring to the sensor or device, such that the energy is insufficient to create an electrical spark that could ignite the flammable liquids or gases.

Intrinsically safe installations are an alternative to explosion proof conduit and wiring systems, which are typically designed to contain the energy of an explosion caused by an electrical spark

Most standard tank gauges are used primarily in gasoline tank installations at retail service stations. For this reason, their instruments and sensors are designed as intrinsically safe devices.

In planning fuel system controls, and important consideration is that intrinsically safe conduit systems must be separated from other wiring.