He did have one episode when the timing chain cover was blown off a truck. I wouldn’t hestitate to use the setup provided explosion proof electrical fittings were used along with locating and isolating the compressor like the dynamite magazines that used to be very common.
I would only use a C1D2 rated motor on the compressor as well. Hermetically sealed contacts on the pressure switches, etc.
BTW, I’ve been the lead engineer for up to 15,000 Hp Electric Motor driven Natural Gas compressor stations. I’ve done up to 42,000 Hp on Natural Gas turbine driven compressors.