In industries where hazardous atmospheres exist—such as oil and gas, chemical manufacturing, and pharmaceuticals—ensuring the safety of equipment is paramount. One of the key certifications in this space is ATEX (ATmosphères EXplosibles). This certification ensures that equipment used in explosive atmospheres meets the required safety standards to prevent accidents and protect both workers and assets.
In this blog, we’ll break down what ATEX certification is, the standards it follows, the certification process, and the key requirements businesses must meet.
What is ATEX Certification?
ATEX certification is a safety standard required for equipment and protective systems that are intended for use in explosive atmospheres. The term “explosive atmosphere” refers to an environment where a mixture of air and flammable substances in the form of gas, vapor, dust, or fibers can create the potential for explosion.
The ATEX certification ensures that equipment and systems are designed and built in a way that minimizes the risk of ignition in these potentially dangerous environments. The certification also covers protective systems and components that help manage the risk of explosions, including electrical devices, mechanical equipment, and control systems.
The Key ATEX Standards
ATEX certification is governed by two main European directives:
- ATEX 2014/34/EU (Equipment Directive) – This directive applies to the design and manufacture of equipment used in explosive atmospheres. It sets out essential health and safety requirements that all equipment and protective systems must meet to be deemed suitable for use in these environments.
- ATEX 1999/92/EC (Workplace Directive) – This directive deals with the safety and health of workers who are exposed to explosive atmospheres. It outlines the obligations of employers to ensure workplace safety, including implementing hazard zone classifications and using ATEX-certified equipment.
Classification of Equipment and Zones
ATEX certification relies on classifying equipment according to the level of protection it provides and the type of explosive atmosphere it will be used in. Both the equipment and the workplace are divided into categories and zones to determine the level of risk involved.
Equipment Categories
- Category 1: For equipment that is intended for use in highly hazardous explosive atmospheres (zone 0 or 20). This equipment must provide a very high level of protection and be continuously safe, even in the event of a fault.
- Category 2: For equipment intended for use in environments where explosive atmospheres are likely to occur (zone 1 or 21). These devices are designed to be safe under normal conditions and during occasional failures.
- Category 3: For equipment designed for areas with lower risks of explosive atmospheres (zone 2 or 22). These systems offer basic protection and can withstand occasional exposures.
Hazard Zones
Zones refer to the classification of explosive atmospheres based on the frequency and duration of the presence of explosive mixtures. They are as follows:
- Zone 0: An atmosphere where explosive gas mixtures are present continuously or for long periods.
- Zone 1: An atmosphere where explosive gas mixtures are likely to occur in normal operation.
- Zone 2: An atmosphere where explosive gas mixtures are not likely to occur but, if they do, will only last for a short period.
- Zone 20: A zone where combustible dust is present continuously or for long periods.
- Zone 21: A zone where combustible dust is likely to occur in normal operation.
- Zone 22: A zone where combustible dust is not likely to occur, but if it does, it will only last for a short period.
The ATEX Certification Process
The ATEX certification process involves several steps to ensure that equipment meets the required safety standards. Here’s a brief overview of the process:
- Product Design and Risk Assessment: The first step is to design the equipment according to the specific ATEX safety standards for the applicable categories and zones. A thorough risk assessment should be carried out to evaluate potential hazards.
- Testing and Inspection: Once the equipment is designed, it must undergo testing to ensure it meets the safety requirements outlined in the ATEX directives. This typically involves testing the equipment’s resistance to electrical faults, heat generation, and any other factors that could lead to ignition in hazardous environments.
- Approval by a Notified Body: An independent, accredited organization known as a “Notified Body” is responsible for verifying that the equipment meets ATEX standards. They will assess the design, testing documentation, and technical files to ensure compliance.
- Issuance of ATEX Certification: After passing the inspection and testing stages, the Notified Body will issue an ATEX certificate. This certificate verifies that the equipment complies with the ATEX directives and can be used safely in explosive atmospheres.
- Ongoing Compliance and Monitoring: ATEX-certified equipment must undergo regular inspections and re-certification as necessary. Manufacturers and businesses are also responsible for maintaining the equipment in safe working order and ensuring it remains compliant with ATEX standards throughout its operational life.
Key Requirements for ATEX Certification
To successfully obtain ATEX certification for equipment, manufacturers and businesses must meet the following key requirements:
- Equipment Design and Quality Assurance: The equipment must be designed to prevent the risk of ignition in explosive atmospheres. This includes considering factors like temperature, electrical properties, and mechanical stability. A quality management system is typically required to ensure ongoing safety and compliance.
- Risk Assessment: A detailed risk assessment must be performed, evaluating all potential ignition sources in the equipment and identifying safety measures to prevent any risks of explosions.
- Documentation: Businesses must maintain thorough technical documentation that includes design details, risk assessments, test results, and other relevant information. This documentation is critical for both obtaining ATEX certification ATEX Approved and for ongoing compliance monitoring.
- Hazardous Area Classification: Businesses must properly classify the hazardous areas where equipment will be used. This includes accurately determining the zone classifications and matching them with appropriate equipment categories.
- Marking and Labeling: Once certified, equipment must be clearly marked with the ATEX logo and the appropriate symbol for the equipment category, as well as additional safety information such as the temperature class and zone classification.
Conclusion
ATEX certification is an essential process for businesses involved in industries with explosive atmospheres. It ensures that the equipment used in these environments meets stringent safety standards, minimizing the risk of explosions and protecting both people and assets. By understanding the ATEX standards, following the certification process, and meeting the required criteria, businesses can demonstrate their commitment to safety, regulatory compliance, and operational excellence.
Whether you’re looking to introduce new equipment to the market or ensure that your current operations are compliant with ATEX regulations, understanding the standards, processes, and requirements is crucial for both safety and success in high-risk environments.