top of page

AXIS Explosion-Protected Cameras: Safe Viewing in Dangerous Places

AXIS Explosion-Protected Cameras

In some workplaces, a small spark can cause a big explosion. These places have gas, oil, dust, or chemicals in the air. Normal cameras are not safe there — they can create sparks or heat.

AXIS Communications makes special cameras called explosion-protected cameras. These cameras are built strong so they do not cause explosions. They are safe even if gas or dust is around. Many big companies use them to watch safely without risk.


What Are Explosion-Protected Cameras?

These cameras are heavy, strong metal boxes (usually stainless steel). If gas goes inside and makes a small explosion, the box keeps everything inside. No flame or heat comes out to start a bigger fire.


They get special safety certificates like:

  • ATEX and IECEx (for Europe and world)

  • cMETus / UL (for USA – Division 1 or 2)

  • Zone 1 / Division 1 = very high risk areas

  • Zone 2 / Division 2 = lower risk but still dangerous


AXIS has two main groups:

  • For the very dangerous Zone 1 / Division 1 areas

  • For the less dangerous Zone 2 / Division 2 areas


Main Functions of AXIS Explosion-Protected Cameras

These cameras do more than just record video. Here are the important features:

  • High-quality video (Full HD, 4K, or 4 MP)

  • Work day and night (with Lightfinder for very dark places)

  • See clearly in bright sun and dark shadows (Forensic WDR)

  • Smart alerts (smoke detection, people or vehicle detection using AI)

  • Some models can move and zoom (PTZ = pan, tilt, zoom)

  • Work in very hot, cold, or wet places (-40°C to +60°C or more)

  • Strong against corrosion (good for sea or chemical places)

  • Easy to connect to network (IP cameras)


Popular Models and Their Specifications (Simple Overview)

AXIS XFQ1656 (Zone 1 / Division 1)

AXIS XFQ1656 (Zone 1 / Division 1)

  • 4 MP video (high quality)

  • Up to 60 frames per second (smooth video)

  • 1/1.8" sensor + adjustable lens (3.9–10 mm)

  • Smoke alert + AI analytics on the camera

  • Very good in low light (0.01 lux in black & white)

  • Strong for dark or changing light areas


AXIS P1468-XLE (Zone 2 / Division 2)

AXIS P1468-XLE (Zone 2 / Division 2)

  • 4K video (very sharp)

  • 1/1.2" big sensor

  • Lightfinder 2.0 for excellent night vision

  • Forensic WDR for hard light conditions

  • First explosion-protected 4K bullet camera for Zone 2


AXIS XPQ1785 or similar PTZ models

AXIS XPQ1785 or similar PTZ models

  • Can turn 360°, tilt, and zoom far (18x or more)

  • Stainless steel body

  • Good for big areas like oil tanks or refineries


Who Should Choose AXIS Explosion-Protected Cameras?

You should choose these cameras if:

  • Your workplace has a risk of explosion (gas, vapor, dust).

  • Safety rules say you need certified cameras.

  • You want good video quality + smart features (AI alerts).

  • You need cameras that last many years in hard conditions.

  • You want one brand for normal areas and dangerous areas (AXIS has both).

They are more expensive than normal cameras, but they save money because:

  • No explosions or accidents

  • Less need for people to go into dangerous places

  • Better security (to stop theft or sabotage)


Which Facilities Buy These Cameras?

Many types of places use AXIS explosion-protected cameras:

  • Oil and gas → refineries, offshore platforms, pipelines, storage tanks

  • Chemical plants → factories with dangerous liquids or gases

  • Mining → underground mines with gas or dust

  • Pharmaceutical factories → places with powders or chemicals

  • Food and grain processing → flour mills, sugar plants (dust explosion risk)

  • Paint and solvent factories

  • Recycling plants (for metal or waste that can explode)

  • Power plants (some areas with gas)

These cameras help watch machines, check safety, stop theft, and keep workers safe without sending people into risky zones.


Conclusion

AXIS explosion-protected cameras give clear video and smart help in the most dangerous places — without starting fires or explosions. They keep people safe, protect machines, and follow strict safety rules.

If you work in oil, gas, chemicals, mining, or similar fields, these cameras are a smart choice.

bottom of page