Brochure/Catalogue

EX basics

The European ATEX Regulation applies to facilities

and their usage in hazardous areas.

The term “ATEX“ derives from the French phrase

“Atmospheres Explosive“. The regulation currently includes

two directives from the European Union concerning

explosion protection. These are the ATEX operational

directive 1999/92/EG (ATEX 137) and the ATEX product

directive 94/9/EG (ATEX 95). The ATEX 137 operational

directive species the minimum requirements for improving

the protection of health and security of workers in

environments at risk of explosions. The ATEX 95 product

directive species the rules for introducing products on

the market that will be used in zones where there is risk of

explosion. This directive is the rst to include non-electric

devices within its jurisdiction.

The purpose of the directive is to protect personnel who

work in hazardous areas. Appendix II of the directive

contains the basic health and safety requirements. These

must be followed by the manufacturer and compliance

must be proven by declarations of conformity. Since June

30, 2003, all devices, components and protective systems

brought to the market must be in compliance with the

ATEX 95 product directive.

Group II

=> Devices for use in the other hazardous areas

For applications in the oil, gas and chemical industries, it is

particularly important to follow the Group-II “G“ requirements

concerning electrical or electronic devices and components.

The ATEX 95 directive classies devices and components for the Ex zone into two main groups:

Group I

=> Devices for use in mining, for underground and

above-ground operations

• Coal dust

• Methane

• Harsh operating conditions

No additional divisions