Ignition sources in hazardous locations must be elevated a minimum of what height above the floor?

In hazardous locations, it is crucial to position ignition sources above a specified height to minimize the risk of ignition of flammable vapors, gases, or dusts that may accumulate near the ground. The International Mechanical Code (IMC) stipulates that ignition sources must be elevated to a minimum height of 18 inches above the floor. This regulation is based on the idea that flammable materials are likely to settle near the ground level and maintaining ignition sources at this height helps to reduce the likelihood of accidents resulting from these materials coming into contact with open flames or other sources of ignition. The 18-inch elevation serves as a standard safety measure in the design and installation of mechanical systems.