Associate Safety Professional Practice Exam

Which of the following equipment is considered "intrinsically safe"?

1. Ordinary wristwatch

2. Handheld power drill

3. Smartphone

4. Electric blender

The correct answer is: Ordinary wristwatch

An intrinsically safe device is designed to operate in hazardous environments without the risk of igniting flammable gases or dust. This means that the equipment is constructed in such a way that it cannot release sufficient energy (thermal or electrical) that could lead to a fire or explosion. In the case of a standard wristwatch, it is typically free of potentially dangerous electrical components that can generate sparks or heat. Wristwatches are often operated by low voltage and low current and do not possess any parts that could cause ignition. Their simplicity and low energy operation make them suitable for use in environments classified as hazardous. Other options like a handheld power drill, smartphone, or electric blender may contain components that can generate heat, create sparks, or produce electrical arcs under certain situations. These characteristics make them not suitable for intrinsically safe classifications. In environments where flammable substances are present, using equipment that is not intrinsically safe could lead to catastrophic consequences, hence the importance of relying on devices specifically designed for such conditions.