ATEX Directive 2014/34/EU Equipment for Potentially Explosive Atmospheres. A potentially explosive atmosphere exists when a mixture of air gases, vapors, mists or dust combines in such a way that it can ignite under certain operating conditions.

Equipment and protective systems designed for use in potentially explosive atmospheres (ATEX) cover a number of products, including those used on stationary offshore platforms, petrochemical plants, mines and mills.

EU & ATEX legislation

The ATEX Directive 2014/34/EU for equipment used in potentially explosive atmospheres defines the procedure for the use in production and admission to the market of equipment representing an increased explosive hazard. Unlike the earlier ATEX Directive) 94/9/EC, the ATEX Directive) 2014/34/EU applies to non-electrical equipment.

ATEX Directive 2014/34/EC covers equipment and protective systems intended for use in potentially explosive atmospheres. The Directive defines the basic health & safety requirements, as well as compliance assessment procedures that must be applied before products are placed on the EU market. It is aligned with the new policy of the legislative framework, and it is applicable from April 20, 2016, replacing the previous Directive 94/9/EC.