ATEX

What is ATEX?

Objective of 2014/34/EU

The objective of ATEX is to ensure the free movement of Ex products within the European Union, by offering one harmonised compliance procedure accepted by all EU countries, eradicating the need for differing national standards.

The Directive removes barriers to trade by defining Essential Health and Safety Requirements (EHSRs) for Ex equipment. The EHSRs form the basis of an EU-accepted product conformity approval process that examines the potential ignition sources of equipment intended for use in explosive atmospheres.

ATEX Product Certification

ATEX product certification (or EU-Type Examination) is the verification of the design specification of a manufacturer’s product in relation to a series of relevant standards laid out under the directive.

This certification process must be undertaken by an ATEX Notified Body. This is an organisation that is appointed by its national government to issue ATEX certificates and conduct periodic surveillance of quality management systems, where necessary.

The certification process includes testing and assessment of the product, with an ATEX certificate and report being issued for conforming product.