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Explosion protection – testing and certification according to the ATEX directive and IECEx system

Industriearbeiter im blauen Arbeitsanzug mit Helm am arbeiten - Imagebild Explosionsschutz

Testing and certification according to the ATEX directive and IECEx system

Our testing and certification services in accordance with the ATEX Directive and the IECEx system are aimed at economic operators such as manufacturers, authorised representatives, importers and distributors of products and equipment used in potentially explosive atmospheres. In addition to customer requirements, specific laws and directives must be observed.

TÜV NORD operates as a European Notified Body in accordance with 2014/34/EU, has an accredited testing laboratory through DAkkS and ZLS, is a recognised IECEx Certification Body with an IECEx testing laboratory, and cooperates with KOSHA (Korean Occupational Safety and Health Agency) and the Chinese certification body NEPSI. This makes us a competent partner for the testing and certification of products and quality management systems in accordance with Annex IV, Module D of the ATEX Directive and the IECEx system based on ISO 9001.

The international IECEx system simplifies and standardises certification worldwide. In addition, the relevant national requirements and procedures, such as CCC for China or KOSHA in South Korea, must be observed. The tests required to obtain a certificate are carried out in our test laboratories.

Since January 2024, TÜV NORD UK has been an accredited body with UKAS for UKEX certifications.

Our aim is to support our customers as a partner from the very start when dealing with complex tasks. Please feel free to contact us for further information.

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Target group

Tests and certifications in accordance with the ATEX Directive and the IECEx scheme are aimed at manufacturers, authorised representatives, importers and distributors of products and equipment for potentially explosive atmospheres that require certification under the ATEX Directive and the IECEx scheme. These economic operators must ensure that their products comply with international and national safety standards.

Advantages of inspection and certification according to the ATEX directive and IECEx system(copy 1)

  • International recognition: Certification in accordance with ATEX and IECEx ensures that products are accepted worldwide, facilitating market access and enhancing competitiveness.
  • Safety and compliance: Our testing ensures that products meet the highest safety standards, thereby minimising risks in potentially explosive atmospheres.
  • Expertise and experience: As a European Notified Body and an accredited IECEx Certification Body, we offer comprehensive expertise and experience to help our customers navigate complex regulatory requirements.
  • Efficiency and reliability: With accredited testing laboratories and international partnerships, we offer fast and reliable certification processes that meet the requirements of various markets.
  • A collaborative approach: We support our clients from the outset in tackling complex tasks and provide tailor-made solutions for their specific needs.

ATEX Directive 2014/34/EU: Europe’s regulation for explosive atmospheres

The ATEX Directive 2014/34/EU is the governing regulation for potentially explosive atmospheres within Europe. Since 20 April 2016, only products that comply with the requirements of this directive may be placed on the market in the EU. This directive, which is transposed into national law by the Member States, covers a wide range of products, including equipment, protective systems, components, and safety, control and regulating devices that ensure the safe operation of equipment and protective systems.

IECEx system: International scope of your certificate

The IECEx system extends the scope of your certification to international markets. Whilst European directives, which are transposed into national legislation, set out the requirements for access to the European market, the IECEx system facilitates easier access to international markets, as the certificate is recognised in all participating countries following a transition period. The basis for the testing and certification of a device is the standards developed by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC).

Following the testing of the equipment and the approval of the manufacturer’s implemented Quality Assurance System (QAS), a Certificate of Conformity (CoC) is published in the IECEx database. During the transition period, the test reports issued, also known as ‘EXTR’ (Explosion Protection Test Reports), can be used as the basis for the required national certifications.

The audit process for certification according to the ATEX directive and IECEx system

1

Step 01

Enquiries, quotations & explanations

2

Step 02

Booking & personalised scheduling

3

Step 03

Audit: Understanding the organisation & assessing readiness for certification

4

Step 04

Identifying areas for improvement

5

Step 05

Quick dual-check & certificate generation

6

Step 06

TÜV certificate for external use

7

Step 07

Continuous improvement of the management system and competitiveness

Eine Vogelperspektive zeigt einen dichten Wald, der sich entlang eines Flusses erstreckt, mit grünen Bäumen

Climate change – additions to management system standards

In a joint statement issued in February 2024, the International Accreditation Forum (IAF) and the International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO) outlined the amendments to various management system standards. The statement emphasises the importance of addressing climate change within these management systems.

The amendments affect clauses 4.1 and 4.2 of the respective standard. The aim of the amendments is to ensure that organisations take climate change issues into account in relation to the effectiveness of management systems, in addition to all other aspects.

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Frequently asked questions

FAQ on ATEX and IECEx certification

The ATEX Directive (2014/34/EU) sets out the requirements for products and equipment used in potentially explosive atmospheres. It is important for ensuring the safety of people and equipment and for facilitating the free movement of goods within the EU.

The IECEx system is an international certification scheme for equipment and services used in potentially explosive atmospheres. It simplifies and standardises certification worldwide, thereby facilitating market access.

Products and equipment used in potentially explosive atmospheres, such as electrical equipment, mechanical devices and protective systems, require ATEX or IECEx certification.

Yes, TÜV NORD is a recognised IECEx Certification Body and works with international partners such as KOSHA in South Korea and NEPSI in China to support certification in accordance with the relevant national requirements.

Expert, international, TÜV NORD CERT

TÜV NORD CERT GmbH

TÜV NORD CERT is an internationally recognised and reliable partner for testing and certification services. Our experts and auditors possess in-depth knowledge and are all permanently employed by TÜV NORD. This ensures independence, impartiality and continuity in the support we provide to our clients. The benefit for you is clear: our auditors accompany and support the development of your business and provide you with objective feedback.

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