Which equipment is classified as "intrinsically safe"?

Intrinsically safe equipment is designed to prevent the possibility of ignition in hazardous environments by limiting the energy, both electrical and thermal, that it generates. This is particularly crucial in industries where flammable gases or dust may be present. An ordinary wristwatch, especially if it relies on simple mechanical functions or utilizes low-energy components, meets the criteria for being intrinsically safe. Its design does not generate excess heat or electrical sparks that could ignite flammable substances.

In contrast, industrial motors, high voltage equipment, and portable generators typically operate with higher energy levels. They can generate sparks or heat that pose significant risks in explosive atmospheres, thus they are not considered intrinsically safe. Safety measures for these types of equipment generally involve enclosures and other protective designs to mitigate risks rather than fitting them into the category of intrinsically safe devices.