I read in sci.electronics.design that Me wrote (in Me-
) about 'CB Radios,
Cellphones and Gasoline Vapor Ignition', on Fri, 19 Mar 2004:
This design
change isn't really that expensive, but the testing that is required to
receive the "Intrinsically Safe" Lable, is extremely expensive.

There are strong suspicions in some countries that it is quite
unjustifiably expensive, because only a few facilities offer it. More
competition is required. Or a government investigation.
--
Regards, John Woodgate, OOO - Own Opinions Only.
The good news is that nothing is compulsory.
The bad news is that everything is prohibited.
http://www.jmwa.demon.co.uk Also see http://www.isce.org.uk