Safety is the cornerstone of operations in hazardous environments. Whether you’re operating in an offshore rig, a chemical processing plant, or a grain storage facility, explosive atmospheres demand strict controls—especially when it comes to using electronic devices. One of the highest global standards in this space is the IECEx intrinsically safe certification.
This post explores what it means for a device to be IECEx certified, how it differs from ATEX, what makes a device intrinsically safe, and which certified devices are best suited for use in high-risk environments. We also answer common questions and recommend top products from Intrinsically Safe Store.
Browse our collection of IECEx certified intrinsically safe devices designed for use in explosive environments.
What Is IECEx Certification?
IECEx stands for the International Electrotechnical Commission System for Certification to Standards Relating to Equipment for Use in Explosive Atmospheres. It’s an international system that verifies whether electrical and electronic equipment is safe to operate in hazardous locations where flammable gases, vapors, or dust may be present.
IECEx Covers Three Core Areas:
Equipment Certification (IECEx Certified Equipment Scheme): Devices are tested against IEC standards to ensure they will not ignite an explosive atmosphere.
Service Facility Certification: Verifies that maintenance and repair facilities meet safety requirements for certified equipment.
Personnel Certification (CoPC): Certifies the competency of workers performing tasks in hazardous environments.
IECEx certification is globally recognized, providing consistency and clarity in environments where equipment failure could result in severe accidents.
What Makes a Device Intrinsically Safe?
An intrinsically safe (IS) device is engineered to operate with electrical energy levels that are too low to ignite a hazardous atmosphere, even under fault conditions. This design approach is particularly suitable for portable electronics used in explosive zones.
Key Intrinsic Safety Principles
Energy Limitation: Circuits are designed to restrict energy so that it remains below ignition thresholds.
Temperature Control: Devices are engineered to remain cool enough to prevent hot surfaces from becoming ignition sources.
Fail-Safe Design: Intrinsically safe equipment must be safe even if two simultaneous faults occur.
Devices marked with “Ex i” are typically suitable for Zone 0, Zone 1, or Zone 2—depending on the level of hazard and likelihood of exposure.
IECEx vs ATEX: What’s the Difference?
While both IECEx and ATEX focus on explosion protection, they are governed by different systems and serve different markets.
| Feature | IECEx | ATEX |
|---|---|---|
| Geographic Scope | Global | European Union |
| Basis | IEC International Standards | EU Directives (94/9/EC) |
| Use of Test Reports | Yes (QARs, CoCs) | Limited (manufacturer’s declaration) |
| Self-Certification | No | Possible for low-risk devices |
| Documentation Transparency | High | Lower than IECEx |
If your operations are global, IECEx is often the better choice due to its international recognition and standardization.
Learn more about our IECEx and ATEX Zone 1 devices designed for high-risk areas.
Why Use IECEx Intrinsically Safe Devices?
Choosing IECEx intrinsically safe devices ensures both worker safety and compliance with global regulations. Here’s why it matters:
1. International Acceptance
With IECEx certification, you can confidently deploy the same devices across regions—eliminating the need for multiple local certifications.
2. Improved Operational Safety
Certified devices reduce the risk of explosions by eliminating ignition sources, ensuring safer workspaces in explosive zones.
3. Efficient Field Operations
IECEx-certified mobile devices allow teams to use digital tools—such as inspections, asset tracking, or video calls—even in Zone 1 areas.
4. Regulatory & Stakeholder Assurance
IECEx devices demonstrate proactive safety measures and simplify audits or inspections by third-party regulators.
Best IECEx Intrinsically Safe Devices (Available Now)
Here’s a list of IECEx certified devices available at Intrinsically Safe Store that meet the highest safety standards while supporting modern industrial workflows.
Ecom Smart-Ex® 02 DZ1
IECEx Certified for Zone 1
Android OS with 4G LTE, dual SIM, and Gorilla Glass touchscreen
Ideal for real-time field communication and digital form entry
View product →
i.safe MOBILE IS530.1
IECEx Zone 1, also Class I Div 1 certified
PTT button, programmable key, high-performance camera
Excellent for push-to-talk communications in refineries and utility plants
i.safe MOBILE IS930.1 Tablet
IECEx Zone 1 rugged Android tablet
8″ multi-touch screen, glove-friendly, 4G-ready
Useful for documentation, mapping, and inspections in explosive zones
Ecom Tab-Ex® 03 DZ1
Large 10.1” Android tablet with IECEx Zone 1 certification
Samsung Knox security, long battery life, glove touch
Great for high-volume data entry or technical drawings in hazardous areas
View product →
RealWear Navigator Z1
Hands-free, head-mounted display with IECEx Zone 1 certification
Controlled entirely by voice, even in loud environments
Ideal for maintenance, inspections, and remote expert support
View product →
Need help finding the right intrinsically safe device? Talk to an expert today and get personalized guidance for your hazardous area operations.
Use Cases Across Industries
Oil & Gas
Teams on drilling platforms or refineries use IECEx smartphones and tablets for inspections, shift handovers, and reporting—without returning to the safe zone.
Chemicals & Pharmaceuticals
Prevent contamination and ignition risks by using IECEx tablets to review protocols and record data within reaction halls or mixing areas.
Utilities & Energy
From electrical substations to biomass facilities, these devices allow seamless workflow tracking, equipment inspections, and emergency communication.
Mining
Rugged IECEx mobile devices are essential in underground environments where explosive gases and dust are prevalent.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What does IECEx intrinsically safe mean?
It means the device is certified under the IECEx scheme to be safe for use in explosive environments. The device is designed not to ignite gases, vapors, or dust under normal or fault conditions.
Can I use IECEx certified devices worldwide?
Yes, IECEx is internationally accepted and ideal for multinational operations. However, local regulations should always be verified.
What zone classifications does IECEx use?
Zones range from 0 to 2 for gases and 20 to 22 for dusts. Zone 0 is the most hazardous and requires the highest level of protection.
Do IECEx and ATEX certifications overlap?
They both address explosive atmospheres but originate from different systems. A device can be certified under both IECEx and ATEX, but the certifications are distinct.
Where can I buy IECEx certified intrinsically safe devices?
Visit Intrinsically Safe Store to view a wide selection of IECEx certified smartphones, tablets, and wearables.
Conclusion
Investing in IECEx intrinsically safe devices is essential for ensuring worker safety and regulatory compliance in explosive environments. These devices help minimize risk while enabling digital transformation in some of the world’s most dangerous workplaces.
Whether you need hands-free wearables or rugged tablets for data entry, choosing the right IECEx certified tools ensures peace of mind—and performance.
