Motor fuel dispensing areas for dispensing gasoline are classified as which type of location?

Motor fuel dispensing areas, particularly those used for dispensing gasoline, are classified under Class I, Division 1 and Division 2 locations according to the National Electrical Code (NEC) standards. The correct classification for these areas is Class I, Division 1.

In Class I locations, flammable gases or vapors are present in the air under normal operating conditions. In the case of gasoline dispensing areas, vapors are present when fuel is being dispensed, hence classified as Division 1. This area requires stringent controls and specific equipment that can withstand potential ignition sources due to the presence of gasoline vapors.

Class I, Division 2 locations, on the other hand, are defined as areas where flammable gases or vapors are present only during abnormal conditions, such as a leak or failure of equipment. However, since fuel dispensing areas consistently have gasoline vapors when in operation, they are not appropriately classified as Division 2.

Class II classifications relate to combustible dusts, not flammable liquids, making it unsuitable for this scenario altogether. Therefore, the appropriate classification for motor fuel dispensing areas for gasoline is Class I, Division 1 due to the ongoing presence of hazardous vapors during fuel dispensing operations.