In industries where explosive atmospheres are a risk, ensuring that equipment and protective systems are properly certified is crucial for safety and compliance. Two of the most widely recognized certification schemes for explosive environments are ATEX and IECEx. While both systems aim to regulate and certify equipment used in hazardous areas, they have different applications, legal standing, and certification processes. This article provides a detailed comparison of ATEX and IECEx to help businesses and engineers understand their implications.
1. Introduction to ATEX and IECEx
What is ATEX?
ATEX stands for “Atmosphères Explosibles,” a European Union directive regulating equipment used in explosive atmospheres. It is governed by the European Directive 2014/34/EU (previously 94/9/EC) and is a mandatory requirement for any equipment sold within the European Economic Area (EEA).
ATEX applies to both electrical and mechanical equipment and ensures that products are safe for use in environments where explosive gases, vapors, or dust are present.
What is IECEx?
IECEx stands for the International Electrotechnical Commission System for Certification to Standards Relating to Equipment for Use in Explosive Atmospheres. It is a global certification scheme based on the IEC 60079 series of standards, ensuring consistency and safety in hazardous environments worldwide.
Unlike ATEX, which is legally required in the EU, IECEx certification is often voluntary but can be mandatory in certain countries such as Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa. Many businesses opt for IECEx certification to demonstrate international compliance and facilitate market access in multiple regions.
2. Legal Status and Applicability
| Feature | ATEX | IECEx |
|---|---|---|
| Legal Requirement | Mandatory in the European Union (EU) and EEA | Voluntary in most regions; mandatory in some countries |
| Regulatory Framework | Governed by EU Directive 2014/34/EU | Governed by IEC 60079 standards |
| Scope | Applicable only within the European Economic Area (EEA) | Recognized internationally in various countries |
| Market Access | Required for the EU and UK markets (post-Brexit UK requires UKCA certification, but similar requirements apply) | Used in countries like Australia, South Africa, UAE, Canada, Brazil, and is widely recognized globally |
3. Certification Process
| Aspect | ATEX | IECEx |
| Self-Certification | Allowed for lower-risk equipment (Category 3) | Not allowed; third-party certification required |
| Third-Party Certification | Required for high-risk categories (Category 1 and 2) | Required for all certifications |
| Assessment Authority | Conducted by a Notified Body (NB) in the EU | Conducted by an IECEx Certification Body (ExCB) |
| Marking System | CE marking + ATEX coding | IECEx certificate number + Ex coding |
| Documentation | Must include a Declaration of Conformity (DoC) | Requires an IECEx Certificate of Conformity |
ATEX Certification Process:
Identify the equipment category based on the explosion risk level.
Conduct risk assessments and conformity assessments.
Depending on the category, a manufacturer may self-certify (for Category 3) or require assessment by a Notified Body (for Category 1 and 2).
Issue a Declaration of Conformity (DoC) and apply CE + ATEX markings.
IECEx Certification Process:
Apply for certification through an IECEx Certification Body (ExCB).
Undergo testing and assessment based on IEC 60079 standards.
Obtain an IECEx Test Report (ExTR) and a Quality Assurance Report (QAR).
If compliant, receive an IECEx Certificate of Conformity.
Products are marked with an IECEx number and Ex coding.
4. Labeling and Marking Differences
ATEX Marking Example:
Ex II 2G Ex db IIC T4 GbEx II – Indicates that the equipment is for non-mining environments (I = mining, II = non-mining).
2G – Equipment Category: 2 (high safety level) and G (for gas environments).
Ex db – Flameproof protection type.
IIC – Gas group (hydrogen and acetylene have the highest risk).
T4 – Maximum surface temperature classification (T1-T6 range).
Gb – Equipment Protection Level (EPL).
IECEx Marking Example:
IECEx ABC 20.0001X Ex db IIC T4 GbIECEx ABC 20.0001X – Certification number.
Ex db IIC T4 Gb – Similar to ATEX protection type and classification.
5. Key Differences in Safety Standards
| Feature | ATEX | IECEx |
| Standards Used | Based on EN (European Norm) standards, which align with IEC but may have differences | Based on IEC 60079 standards |
| Testing and Certification | Can include manufacturer self-declaration | Requires third-party testing for all certifications |
| Market Recognition | Recognized in EU, UK, and EEA countries | Recognized globally in multiple regions |
6. Which Certification Should You Choose?
If you plan to sell in Europe → ATEX certification is mandatory.
If you need global recognition and compliance → IECEx is more widely accepted.
If you need both EU and international approval → Getting both ATEX and IECEx is advisable.
Many manufacturers opt for dual certification (ATEX + IECEx) to ensure their products are compliant in multiple markets.
7. Conclusion
ATEX and IECEx are both essential certifications for equipment used in explosive environments, but they serve different legal and geographical purposes. ATEX is legally required in the European Union, while IECEx is an internationally recognized certification based on IEC standards.
For companies looking to expand globally, obtaining both ATEX and IECEx certifications is the best approach to ensure compliance with different market requirements and enhance the safety of their equipment.
Understanding these differences helps businesses make informed decisions when designing, manufacturing, and selling equipment for hazardous environments, ensuring both legal compliance and safety for end users.