Which organization is responsible for setting safety standards for electrical equipment in hazardous locations in the U.S.?

The organization responsible for setting safety standards for electrical equipment in hazardous locations in the U.S. is Underwriters Laboratories (UL). UL is recognized for its extensive work in testing and certifying products to ensure they meet safety standards, specifically in environments where flammable gases, vapors, dust, or fibers may be present. Their standards and certifications play a crucial role in ensuring that electrical equipment operates safely in such hazardous conditions, thus protecting both workers and facilities.

While the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) does facilitate the development of standards across various industries, it primarily provides a platform for consensus standards rather than issuing specific safety standards for hazardous locations itself. On the other hand, OSHA is primarily focused on occupational health and safety regulations but does not set the technical standards for electrical equipment. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) concentrates on fire prevention standards, including codes related to hazardous locations, but does not specifically set the safety standards for electrical equipment in these areas. Therefore, UL is the key organization that directly impacts the safety standards for electrical equipment in hazardous locations.