ATEX directives and standards

The ATEX Directive is referred to by the term “ATEX.” It is a set of rules from the European Union
that ensure the safety of goods used in explosive settings. The acronym ATEX stands for “Atmospheres Explosives”. Combustible dusts, flammable gases, mists, or vapours can produce explosive atmospheres. That is required for an explosion to occur when a substance is sufficiently combined with air as an ignition source. All equipment that has a source of ignition that could accidentally create an explosion is covered by the ATEX Directive. However, it does not include appliances that provide ignition, like heaters and cookers.

Anyone who manufactures machinery, equipment intended for use in explosive atmospheres, or machinery that contains explosive atmospheres must adhere to the ATEX directive and, if applicable, the Machinery Directive’s criteria for explosion protection. A mixture of air and explosive gases or mists, air and dust, or a combination of both air and explosive gases and dust are considered explosive atmospheres covered by the ATEX standard. With very few exceptions, ATEX applies to all commercial settings in both on- and offshore permanent installations and in the on- and underground mining industries.

You can meet European Essential Health and Safety Regulations by adhering to the ATEX Directive. Ensuring that your products adhere to regulations and are suitable for using CE and ‘Ex’ marks.

The Ex mark informs European end users and Authorities Having Jurisdiction that your product
conforms to the ATEX Directive.

We have the expertise to assist in the test and certification to the following explosive atmosphere requirements because we are a Notified Body for the ATEX Directive, which includes category 1 and 2
equipment (electrical and non-electrical):

• IEC/EN 60079 series
• IEC/EN 61241 series
• EN 16463 series