What does ATEX mean
What to look for
- Manufacturer's name, registered trade name or registered trademark and address
- CE marking and number of the notified body involved
- Series and type designation
- Batch or serial number if applicable
- Year of manufacture
- Year of manufacture
Why is ATEX important?
Explosions caused by ignition of dust, gas or steam can have catastrophic consequences.
ATEX ensures that both equipment and working methods meet a common European safety level. It protects employees, secures plant operations and reduces legal liability if accidents occur.
For companies in Europe, ATEX is not just good practice - it is a legal requirement in many work situations. Therefore, you should always ensure that your components, such as ATEX switches, junction boxes and connectors, carry the correct labeling and come with full documentation.
The two ATEX directives
The ATEX regulations consist of two directives, each covering a different area:
- ATEX 2014/34/EU (Product Directive)
Applies to manufacturers and suppliers of devices. It sets out the requirements for design, testing, labeling and documentation before the product can be placed on the EU market - ATEX 1999/92/EC (Work Directive)
Applies to employers who must ensure the safe use of equipment in explosive atmospheres. It's about zones, risk assessment, operation and maintenance
Both directives are closely linked - and it is only when the equipment is approved and used correctly in relation to the zones that safety is fully met.
What is ATEX - and how do you ensure legal use in Europe?
ATEX is a common European standard that sets the requirements for equipment and protective systems used in explosive atmospheres.
The abbreviation comes from the French Explosive atmospheres and covers two EU directives designed to protect people, plant and the environment from the risk of explosion.
In practice, ATEX means that all electrical and mechanical equipment, used in potentially explosive environments - such as chemical industries, refineries, food production or other places with dust or gas - must be designed, tested and documented according to specific safety standards.