ATEX simply explained: Everything about zones, devices, training & certificates - for more safety and clarity in explosion protection for your company.
What is ATEX?
ATEX is a key term in the field of explosion protection and refers to the European regulations for devices and protective systems used in potentially explosive atmospheres. The term "ATEX" stands for "ATmosphères EXplosibles", a French term that refers to potentially explosive atmospheres. In German, ATEX is often used as a synonym for the corresponding legislation and standards relating to explosion protection.
Origin and meaning of the abbreviation ATEX
The abbreviation "ATEX" is derived directly from the French expression "ATmosphères EXplosibles". It was introduced as part of the harmonization of European directives in order to create uniform safety standards for companies that work with potentially explosive atmospheres. Such atmospheres are created, for example, by flammable gases, vapors, mists or dusts that occur in many branches of industry - such as the chemical, petrochemical, pharmaceutical, food processing or woodworking industries.
The two central ATEX directives
In practice, the term "ATEX" refers to two key EU directives that regulate different aspects of explosion protection: the ATEX Product Directive 2014/34/EU and the ATEX Operating Directive 1999/92/EC.
Importance of ATEX in the industrial environment
Today, ATEX is an indispensable part of industrial safety management. Companies operating in potentially explosive environments must comply with both the ATEX Product Directive 2014/34/EU and the ATEX Operating Directive 1999/92/EC. Only by consistently implementing both sets of regulations can accidents, production downtime and legal consequences be avoided. Compliance with ATEX requirements not only protects human life, but also infrastructure, systems and the environment. In addition, ATEX certification is a mandatory criterion for many products in order to be able to participate in the European single market. Manufacturers and operators alike benefit from clear specifications that apply uniformly throughout Europe.
Conclusion
ATEX stands for a comprehensive set of regulations on explosion protection that covers the requirements for both technical products and operational processes. The abbreviation comes from the French and refers to potentially explosive atmospheres. With the ATEX Product Directive 2014/34/EU and the ATEX Operating Directive 1999/92/EC, there are two central legal bases that enable safe working in hazardous areas. For companies, compliance with these requirements is not only a legal obligation, but also an important contribution to safety and sustainable economic success.
Why is ATEX important?
ATEX plays a central role in explosion protection in companies - especially in industries where flammable substances are used. As soon as gases, vapors, mists or dusts can form an ignitable atmosphere in combination with air, this is referred to as a potentially explosive atmosphere. Such areas can be found, for example, in the chemical industry, food processing, mills, tank farms or paint shops.
When is explosion protection required?
Explosion protection is always required when there is a risk of an explosive atmosphere forming - for example due to escaping gases, fine dusts or solvents. The aim is to avoid potential ignition sources and to take technical and organizational protective measures. In this context, ATEX ensures that devices and equipment are designed and used in such a way that no explosion is triggered - even in the event of a fault.
ATEX and functional safety
Functional safety is an important component of ATEX. This refers to technical measures that ensure the safe behavior of devices and systems even in the event of failures or faults. In potentially explosive atmospheres, safety-relevant functions - such as pressure monitoring, temperature control or emergency shutdown - must run reliably and automatically. ATEX-compliant products meet these requirements in accordance with clearly defined standards.
Where is ATEX required by law?
ATEX is required by law in all EU member states. In addition, the directive also applies in countries of the European Economic Area (EEA) such as Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein. In many other countries outside Europe, the ATEX standards are also recognized or used as a reference.
When is ATEX necessary?
ATEX is required as soon as equipment is used in potentially explosive atmospheres - be it in the manufacture, storage, processing or transportation of hazardous substances. Both manufacturers and operators must ensure that all products used are ATEX-certified and that explosion protection is systematically planned and documented during operation. In this way, ATEX contributes significantly to the safety of people, the environment and systems. You can also find more information on this topic in our blog article: Safety and protection in industry.
ATEX directives and certifications
The ATEX Directive is a central European set of rules for explosion protection and regulates the conditions under which devices and protective systems may be used in potentially explosive atmospheres. More specifically, it comprises two directives: the ATEX Product Directive 2014/34/EU, which sets requirements for devices and components, and the ATEX Operating Directive 1999/92/EC, which regulates the safe operation of these products. The ATEX Product Directive 2014/34/EU regulates the placing on the market of equipment and protective systems used in potentially explosive atmospheres. Manufacturers must ensure that their products meet certain safety requirements before they can be sold in the EU. This includes, for example, explosion-proof enclosures, sensors, control systems or complete system components. The ATEX Product Directive ensures that equipment is not a source of ignition and can be operated safely even in the event of a fault, and unlike the Product Directive, the ATEX Operating Directive 1999/92/EC is aimed at plant operators. It specifies requirements for explosion protection in the workplace. The aim is to ensure the safety of employees by identifying and assessing risks and taking appropriate protective measures. Among other things, this includes zoning, i.e. the classification of areas according to the risk of an explosive atmosphere occurring, and the creation of an explosion protection document.
What is an ATEX certificate?
An ATEX certificate is formal proof that a device or system meets the requirements of the ATEX directive. It confirms that the product is suitable for use in potentially explosive atmospheres and is not a source of ignition - even under exceptional conditions. Such a certificate is particularly mandatory for category 1 and 2 devices, i.e. those that are used in areas with a high risk of explosion. For many companies, ATEX certificates are a prerequisite for placing their products on the market within the EU or using them within their own premises in compliance with the law.
Who can issue an ATEX certificate?
ATEX certificates may only be issued by so-called Notified Bodies. These are officially accredited testing bodies that examine the technical documentation, carry out product tests and - if the assessment is positive - confirm conformity with the ATEX Directive. Well-known notified bodies in Europe include TÜV, DEKRA and Intertek.
The role of the ATEX Machinery Directive
In addition to the ATEX Directive, the ATEX Machinery Directive also plays a role, especially when machines are used in potentially explosive atmospheres. Here, the requirements of the ATEX Product Directive overlap with those of the General Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC. Manufacturers must ensure that both the safety and explosion protection requirements are met - and that this is documented by the corresponding ATEX certificates. For further information, please also read our blog article on Atex directives.
ATEX classification of hazardous areas
The ATEX classification of hazardous areas is a central element of explosion protection. It is used to systematically assess the risk of explosive atmospheres and derive appropriate protective measures. The classification into so-called ATEX zones is based on the probability and duration of the occurrence of an explosive atmosphere. This is also referred to as ATEX areas or Ex zones.
What are ATEX zones?
ATEX zones describe areas in which explosive atmospheres are likely to occur. A distinction is made between areas with flammable gases, vapors or mists (gas Ex zones) and areas with flammable dusts (dust Ex zones). Each zone is assigned a so-called ATEX zone category, which in turn determines the requirements for the equipment used.
Which Ex zones are there?
There are ATEX zones 0, 1 and 2 in the gas sector and zones 20, 21 and 22 in the dust sector. The following table provides an overview of the most important zones and their significance:
| Zone | Type of hazard | Frequency | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Zone 0 | Gas, vapor, mist | Constantly or frequently | Fuel tank interior |
| Zone 1 | Gas, vapor, mist | Occasionally | Tank openings |
| Zone 2 | Gas, vapor, mist | Rarely and briefly | Ventilated pipelines |
| Zone 20 | Dust | Constantly or frequently | Interior of silos |
| Zone 21 | Dust | Occasionally | Close to conveyor systems |
| Zone 22 | Dust | Rare and short-term | Under bagging stations |
What does ATEX Zone 2 mean?
ATEX Zone 2 designates an area in which an explosive atmosphere rarely occurs under normal operating conditions - and if it does, then only for a short time. Equipment used in Zone 2 must meet less stringent requirements than in Zone 0 or 1. Nevertheless, an appropriate assessment and selection according to the correct ATEX Zone category is essential.
Why is zone classification important?
The correct classification into ATEX zones is the basis for technical explosion protection. It determines which devices are permitted, how installations may be carried out and which maintenance intervals must be observed. Explosion protection can only be reliably implemented and documented if the ATEX zone definition is clearly defined. This ensures that both employees and systems are optimally protected. You can find more information in our blog article on Atex zones.
ATEX equipment and products
Special requirements apply to the technology used in potentially explosive atmospheres. ATEX-compliant devices are designed in such a way that they do not represent a source of ignition under normal and foreseeable fault conditions. The selection of the correct ATEX devices is based on the ATEX device category (1, 2 or 3) and the ATEX device group (I for underground mining, II for all other industrial areas).
What does ATEX conformity mean?
ATEX conformity means that a device or system meets the requirements of the ATEX directive - both in terms of technical design and documentation. Conformity is verified by test procedures, technical documentation and, if necessary, the involvement of a notified body.
What does the ATEX marking mean?
Each ATEX device bears a specific ATEX marking, which indicates the device group, category, degree of protection and permitted area of application, among other things. For example: "II 2G Ex ib IIB T4 Gb" - this marking provides information about suitability for zone 1 (category 2), the type of protection concept (e.g. type of protection "ib") and the gas group and temperature class.
