Which aspect of equipment design is critical in preventing explosions?

The incorporation of safety features to handle hazardous materials is critical in preventing explosions because it directly addresses the potential sources of ignition and containment of explosive atmospheres. Safety features can include fail-safes, pressure relief devices, inerting systems, and proper venting to manage the effects of any unwanted chemical reactions or pressure buildups. By designing equipment that can safely contain and control hazardous materials, manufacturers can significantly reduce the risk of an explosive event occurring during operations. This is especially important in industries that deal with flammable substances, as the right safety features help to mitigate risks associated with those materials.

In contrast, the other options, while important considerations in equipment design, do not specifically target the prevention of explosions. For example, cost-effectiveness is crucial for economic reasons, but it should not compromise safety. The ability to operate under high temperatures is certainly a factor for certain processes, yet it does not inherently contribute to explosion prevention. Similarly, size and weight might affect the logistics of equipment installation and operation, but they do not directly mitigate explosion hazards. Thus, prioritizing safety features is essential for ensuring that equipment is designed to handle potential risks effectively.