Introduction
If your business deals with equipment used in explosive atmospheres, securing ATEX certification is crucial for compliance and safety. The ATEX directive ensures that all equipment and protective systems used in hazardous areas meet essential safety standards within the European Union.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step ATEX certification process so you understand what’s required and how to get your products certified efficiently.
What Is ATEX Certification?
ATEX stands for “Atmosphères Explosibles”, and the certification ensures that equipment used in potentially explosive environments meets strict safety requirements under EU directives 2014/34/EU.
Who Needs ATEX Certification?
You need ATEX certification if you manufacture, sell, or install:
- Electrical or mechanical equipment in Zone 0, 1, 2 (gas) or Zone 20, 21, 22 (dust)
- Protective systems used in hazardous environments
- Safety, control, or regulation devices related to explosion protection
🔍 Step-by-Step Guide to the ATEX Certification Process
Step 1: Identify Applicable ATEX Zone and Category
Start by determining:
- The hazardous zone (e.g., Zone 1 – gas, Zone 21 – dust)
- The category of your equipment (Category 1, 2, or 3 based on risk level)
This helps define what level of certification and testing is required.
Step 2: Determine the Conformity Assessment Procedure
Depending on the category:
- Category 1 (high risk): Requires Notified Body involvement for testing and certification.
- Category 2: May need third-party review, depending on the design.
- Category 3 (low risk): Self-certification is often acceptable.
Step 3: Prepare Technical Documentation
You must prepare a technical file that includes:
- Product design and drawings
- Risk assessment
- Safety measures and protections
- Test reports and compliance evidence
- User manual with ATEX instructions
Step 4: Product Testing and Evaluation
For Category 1 and 2, testing is done by an ATEX Notified Body to ensure the product complies with relevant standards (e.g., EN 60079 series).
Step 5: Issue the EU Declaration of Conformity
Once testing is complete and your product complies, you must create an EU Declaration of Conformity, stating that your equipment meets the ATEX Directive.
Step 6: CE Marking with the ATEX Code
Label your equipment with:
- The CE mark
- ATEX-specific code (e.g., Ex II 2G Ex db IIC T6 Gb)
This ensures easy identification of the certified status and usage area.
Step 7: Ongoing Quality Assurance
If you’re mass-producing equipment, you’ll need a Quality Assurance Notification (QAN) — a process where your production line is audited by a Notified Body to maintain consistent product compliance.
✅ Benefits of ATEX Certification
- Legal compliance for the EU market
- Improved safety and trust
- Market access for high-risk industries (oil & gas, chemicals, mining)
- Competitive advantage with certified labeling
Conclusion
The ATEX certification process may seem complex, but with the right approach, technical documentation, and support from a certified Notified Body, it can be a smooth journey. Whether you’re entering the EU market or ensuring safety in hazardous locations, following this structured process will help you meet legal requirements and protect your business.
