Can Explosion-Proof Phones Survive Underwater

As industrial-grade smartphones gain wider adoption across oil fields, chemical plants, and mining sites, a new question is emerging among safety managers and field workers: Can explosion-proof phones also survive underwater? The inquiry reflects a growing demand for devices that combine hazardous-area certification with the everyday durability features expected from modern mobile technology.

According to industry analysts, the answer depends on the device’s specific design and rating. Explosion-proof phones are built to prevent ignition in environments with flammable gases, vapors, or combustible dust. This is achieved through strict standards such as ATEX, IECEx, or NEC/CEC certification, which govern electrical safety and enclosure integrity to ensure the device does not become a source of sparks or excessive heat.

However, explosion-proof certification alone does not guarantee waterproof performance. For underwater survival, manufacturers must implement independent protection standards such as IP68 or IP69K, the same durability ratings commonly seen on rugged phones. Devices with IP68 can typically withstand submersion in up to 1.5 meters of water for a set duration, while IP69K indicates resistance to high-pressure, high-temperature water jets.

In recent years, leading manufacturers of intrinsically safe devices have begun integrating both sets of certifications—hazardous-area safety and rugged waterproofing—into a single unit. This hybrid design reflects the realities of industrial operations, where workers may face heavy rain, accidental submersion, cleaning procedures, or offshore conditions while still requiring explosion-proof protections.

Experts caution that despite high IP ratings, underwater usage should always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines, especially in environments where pressure, temperature, or chemical exposure may exceed tested limits. Explosion-proof phones are primarily engineered for ignition prevention, and their waterproof capabilities vary widely by model.

As industries continue to digitalize field operations, demand for multi-certified communication tools is expected to grow. For now, the market trend shows a clear direction: modern explosion-proof phones can survive underwater—but only when they combine rigorous hazardous-area compliance with true rugged waterproofing.