What poses a hazard in Class II locations?

In Class II locations, the primary hazard comes from combustible dust that can ignite and cause explosions or fires. These areas are classified as environments where flammable dust particles are present in the air and can accumulate on surfaces, creating a risk of ignition when exposed to heat or sparks.

In industrial settings, dust produced from materials such as grain, wood, plastics, or metals can be extremely hazardous if not properly managed. The ignition of these dust clouds can occur with relatively low energy sparks, making it crucial to implement appropriate safety measures, such as dust collection systems and explosion-proof equipment, to mitigate these risks.

Understanding the nature of Class II locations highlights the importance of recognizing and controlling combustible dust hazards in those settings. This contrasts with other options like high voltage or electrical shorts, which are more relevant in Class I or Class III environments, or excessive humidity that, while it can create problems, does not characterize Class II hazards specifically.