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ATEX Explosion proof Certification Service
On March 23, 1994, the European Commission adopted the Directive on Equipment and Protective Systems for Potential Explosive Environments (94/9/EC). This directive covers both mining and non mining equipment. Unlike previous directives, it includes mechanical and electrical equipment, extending the potential explosive hazard environment to dust and flammable gases, flammable vapors, and mist in the air. This directive is commonly referred to as the ATEX 100A "New Method" directive, which is the current ATEX Explosion Protection Directive. It specifies the technical requirements for equipment intended for use in potentially explosive environments - basic health and safety requirements - and the conformity assessment procedures that must be adopted before the equipment is placed on the European market within its scope of use. It is named after the French word 'Atmosphere Explosive'. Manufacturers of equipment intended for use in potentially explosive environments can sell their explosion-proof equipment anywhere in Europe without considering additional requirements, by applying the ATEX directive provisions and affixing the CE mark. The scope of equipment applicable to this directive is particularly large, roughly including fixed offshore platforms, petrochemical plants, flour mills, and other places where potential explosive environments may exist. An estimated 3 billion euros of such equipment are purchased annually in the European market. |