In hazardous industries like oil & gas, mining, and chemical processing, equipment must be designed to operate safely in explosive environments. That’s where IECEx intrinsic safety certification comes into play. This global safety standard ensures that electronic devices used in potentially explosive atmospheres won’t ignite gases or dust through sparks or heat.
This guide will break down what IECEx intrinsic safety means, how the certification system works, and how to choose compliant devices for your operation.
Explore our IECEx-certified devices designed for explosive environments.
What Is IECEx Intrinsic Safety?
IECEx intrinsic safety refers to a globally recognized certification that ensures electronic equipment will not cause explosions in hazardous environments by limiting electrical and thermal energy. The term “IECEx” stands for International Electrotechnical Commission System for Certification to Standards Relating to Equipment for Use in Explosive Atmospheres.
This system works in harmony with the IEC 60079 series of standards, specifically focusing on the “Ex i” protection concept—intrinsic safety.
Learn more about Intrinsically Safe Equipment Standards.
Why Is IECEx Important?
IECEx is essential for global operations because:
It provides a unified standard across countries.
It streamlines the approval process for manufacturers.
It increases safety and reduces liability in hazardous areas.
How Does Intrinsic Safety Work?
Intrinsic safety (IS) limits the energy—electrical and thermal—available for ignition. Even if a circuit fails, the energy levels are kept so low that an explosion cannot be triggered.
Key Components of an Intrinsically Safe System
Barriers or isolators: Limit voltage and current going into hazardous zones.
Certified equipment: Devices tested and approved under Ex i standards.
Approved installation methods: Following strict guidelines for wiring and maintenance.
What Are the IECEx Zones and Equipment Categories?
IECEx defines hazardous areas by zones, which indicate the frequency and duration of an explosive atmosphere.
| Zone | Description | Typical Environment |
|---|---|---|
| Zone 0 | Explosive atmosphere is present always or for long periods | Inside fuel tanks, chemical vats |
| Zone 1 | Explosive atmosphere is likely during normal operations | Around pump seals, valves |
| Zone 2 | Explosive atmosphere is not likely but possible briefly | Storage areas, ventilation ducts |
Equipment is categorized as:
Ex ia – Safe for Zone 0 (most stringent)
Ex ib – Safe for Zone 1
Ex ic – Safe for Zone 2
Browse products by zone rating to ensure proper classification for your operation.
What Is the Difference Between IECEx and ATEX?
IECEx and ATEX are both standards for explosive atmospheres, but they differ in scope and geography.
| Aspect | IECEx | ATEX |
|---|---|---|
| Region | International | European Union |
| Certification System | Centralized testing | Manufacturer self-declaration (ATEX 2014/34/EU) |
| Documentation | Online via IECEx Certificate of Conformity | CE marking + EU Declaration of Conformity |
| Recognition | Global (especially Australia, Asia, Middle East) | Limited to EU unless mutually recognized |
How to Verify an IECEx Intrinsic Safety Certification?
Each certified product comes with a Certificate of Conformity (CoC) accessible via the IECEx website. Here’s how to verify:
Visit the IECEx online database.
Enter the certificate number or manufacturer name.
Review detailed testing info and scope of certification.
Key Fields to Look For:
Equipment Protection Level (EPL) – e.g., Ga (very high), Gb, Gc
Gas Group & Temperature Class – e.g., IIC T4
Marking Example: Ex ia IIC T4 Ga
Need help choosing compliant gear? Talk to an expert for free guidance.
Which Products Are IECEx Intrinsically Safe?
Below is a comparison of popular IECEx-rated products available at Intrinsically Safe Store:
IECEx Intrinsically Safe Equipment Comparison
| Product | Certifications | Key Features | Use Case | Product Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ecom Smart-Ex® 02 | IECEx, ATEX Zone 1 | 4G LTE, Android, Push-to-Talk | Field communication | Intrinsically Safe Smartphone |
| Sonim XP8 | IECEx, ATEX, Class I Div 1 | Rugged, Glove touch, Long battery | First responders, utilities | Intrinsically Safe Smartphone |
| Bartec Agile X IS Tablet | IECEx Zone 1, ATEX Zone 1 | Windows OS, Barcode scanner | Inventory, diagnostics | Intrinsically Safe Tablet |
| GfG G450 Gas Detector | IECEx, ATEX | Multi-gas detection, data logging | Confined spaces | Gas Detector |
Best Choice For:
Oil & Gas Field Workers: Ecom Smart-Ex® 02
Public Safety & Utilities: Sonim XP8
Maintenance & Inspection: Bartec Agile S Industry Tablet PC
Gas Monitoring: GfG G450 Detector
Who Needs IECEx Intrinsically Safe Equipment?
If you operate in environments where flammable gases, vapors, or dust are present, IECEx-certified gear is essential. Key industries include:
Oil & Gas
Mining
Pharmaceuticals
Food & Beverage (dust hazards)
Chemical Processing
Using non-certified equipment in these areas poses risks of fire, explosion, regulatory fines, and fatal injuries.
What Are the Compliance Requirements for Employers?
Employers must ensure that:
All equipment used in hazardous areas is certified (IECEx or equivalent).
Workers are trained in using and maintaining certified gear.
Regular inspections and maintenance are documented.
Hazardous area classifications (Zone 0, 1, 2) are clearly marked.
Regulatory compliance isn’t optional—it’s enforced by local and international safety bodies, and violations can result in shutdowns or legal action.
How Does IECEx Benefit Global Operations?
IECEx offers several advantages for multinational enterprises:
Streamlined Approvals: Avoid re-certification when expanding into new regions.
Unified Safety Standards: Simplifies training and documentation.
Public Trust: Recognized by inspection authorities and safety auditors worldwide.
With IECEx, companies gain not only safety assurance but also operational efficiency.
Why IECEx Intrinsic Safety Matters
IECEx intrinsic safety is a non-negotiable requirement for any operation involving explosive atmospheres. It minimizes the risk of ignition by ensuring that equipment limits energy output, even during faults. Whether you’re managing offshore rigs, chemical plants, or grain silos, investing in IECEx-certified gear ensures compliance, worker safety, and operational continuity.
