Abstract: An explosion proof electrical enclosure has a relieved joining flange at the junction between the cover and the body of the enclosure. The relieved portion provides an area reducing the bolt load in the event the enclosure is subjected to an internal explosion. As a result, fewer bolts may be used to join the enclosure, reducing the cost of the enclosure, increasing the convenience of access to the enclosure and reducing the labor required to remove or install the cover. The cover of the enclosure has increased stiffening structure at the corners so that the bolts in the corners of the enclosure may be eliminated.