News Updates
When released into the atmosphere, flammable gases, vapors from flammable liquids, and combustible dusts may be ignited if an ignition source is present. A Hazardous Area Classification (HAC) study is the required analysis for minimizing the likelihood of ignition of flammable material while considering gas/vapor/combustible dust sources and ignition design controls. BakerRisk’s methodology for HAC is more than the typical “check box” study performed to meet regulatory requirements. HACTool© output provides an evergreen product that continues to generate value and cost savings in capital expenditures over the life of a facility.
HACTool© efficiently documents 2D and 3D HAC drawings with detailed, easy-to-update software using rule sets established in applicable guidelines.
HAC, also known as Electrical Area Classification (EAC), impacts the design and operation of industrial operations that utilize flammable materials by requiring ignition source controls. Uncontrolled ignition of flammable material in air can result in loss of life, property damage, business interruption, a negative impact on communities, and legal liabilities. There are numerous regulations used in a variety of industries to address HAC.
The objective of the Hazardous Area Classification (HAC) analysis is to identify and classify a 3-dimensional region, space, or location within a facility that handles flammable/combustible material. The objective of a HAC analysis is to minimize uncontrolled ignition by electrical equipment or hot surfaces of flammables in air that could lead to fires or explosions resulting in equipment and property damage as well as potential loss of life.
The Standards Council recognized David Wechsler’s contributions to the NFPA’s Code and Standards Development Process and presented him with the 2021 Committee Service Award. With more than 40 years of experience in the chemical and insurance industries, David is a recognized subject matter expert dealing with Hazardous Area Classification.
For over 35+ years, we have helped our clients improve their understanding and management of operational risks through lunch & learns, technical papers, guidance documents, webinars, and other educational resources. BakerRisk works with companies to ensure that knowledge and needs are met by tailoring available content and courses to provide the exact combination of training required.
BakerRisk is pleased to announce the launch of the new version of its proprietary Hazardous Area Classification (HAC) software, HACTool.
BakerRisk, an employee-owned risk management consulting firm, is pleased to announce the appointment of Karen Vilas as Chief Executive Officer. Following a robust executive search process, Ms. Vilas assumed the role on April 21, 2026.
The TÜV Rheinland Functional Safety Program is a unique opportunity to provide evidence of competency in functional safety from an internationally recognised organisation.
BakerRisk is pleased to announce that a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with ENPPI was signed on June 17, 2025.
We are pleased to announce our inclusion in the Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firms list. The list ranks the 500 largest AEC (Architectural, Engineering, and Construction) companies in the U.S. based on design-specific revenue. It is the company’s first appearance on the list, ranking #391.
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