What Does ATEX Stand For?

ATEX is an abbreviation of the French term ‘ATmosphère EXplosible’ (or ‘explosive atmospheres’ in English). This term is used in the EU ATEX Directive 94/9/EC (replaced by the ATEX Directive 2014/34/EU), a code regulating equipment used in explosive atmospheres. Generally, “ATEX” is used to refer to these ATEX certifications/standards and to indicate a product’s suitability for use in hazardous environments.

What does ‘ATEX-certified’ mean?

ATEX certification is awarded to equipment that has passed the rigorous tests set out in European Union directives. ATEX-compliant products have been proven to be safe for use in specific environments with explosive atmospheres, depending on the zone(s) for which they are certified.

The European Union has made ATEX compliance mandatory in all areas where there is a potentially explosive atmosphere, in order to ensure the safety of workers. These atmospheres are characterised by three factors.

  • Air
  • A source of ignition
  • One of the following three items:
    • Flammable gases
    • Mist or vapour
    • Flammable dust

Products that have obtained ATEX certification bear the official “Ex” mark, which indicates that they are safe for use in explosive atmospheres.

Non-ATEX/IECEx-certified IT equipment used in hazardous areas can act as a source of ignition; therefore, the use of ATEX/IECEx-certified IT equipment in these areas is of critical importance. Failure to use such equipment poses an immediate and significant risk to the safety of workers.

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What does IECEX-certified mean?

Like ATEX certification, IECEx certification is awarded to products that have undergone and passed comprehensive testing to demonstrate that they operate safely in environments with explosive atmospheres.

IECEx certification is an internationally recognised method demonstrating compliance with IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission) standards. IEC standards and assessments are recognised as an international benchmark for the field of electrical engineering.

ATEX Certification and IECEx Certification

Equipment holding either an ATEX or an IECEx certificate—or both—has met stringent requirements and has been tested and certified for use in explosive atmospheres. The main difference lies in the geographical scope. The ATEX certificate is well known but is specific to the European Union, whereas the IECEx certificate is recognised in other regions.

ATEX and IECEx Classification

ATEX and IECEx products are classified and grouped into various categories, and are further subdivided into Zones, Groups, Protection Types and Equipment Protection Levels (EPLs).

Below is an example of marking for ATEX products. Some classifications are found only on ATEX equipment and not on IECEx products.

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ATEX Zones and Equipment Categories

Explosive atmospheres are found in various environments, such as mines, factories, oil and gas rigs, and flour and timber mills. Hazardous area zones are defined according to the frequency of explosive substances in specific areas. Each zone has specific categories of equipment that are permitted.

Zones 0, 1, 2 – These are zones specifically designated for atmospheres containing hazardous gases, vapours and mists.

  • Zone 0 – Explosive mixtures are constantly present. Category 1 equipment is required.
  • Zone 1  – Explosive mixtures are present intermittently. Category 2 or 1 equipment is required.
  • Zone 2  – Explosive mixtures are present abnormally or sporadically. Category 3, 2 or 1 equipment is required.
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    Zones 20, 21, 22  – These are areas where dust clouds are present or may be present.

    • Zone 20 – Explosive mixtures are constantly present in the air. Category 1 equipment is required.
    • Zone 21 – Explosive mixtures are present intermittently in the air. Category 2 or 1 equipment is required.
    • Zone 22  – Explosive mixtures are present in the air only occasionally or in small quantities. Category 3, 2 or 1 equipment is required.
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    Supply of Explosion-Proof Products

    For safety in hazardous areas (Zone 1 and Zone 2; Zone 21 and Zone 22), order your flame-proof and explosion-proof electrical components today. Eksen Engineering Contact 0216 504 17 44