Chemical plants, oil refineries, and other hazardous facilities operate under strict safety standards to prevent explosions. Two globally recognized certification systems—IECEx and ATEX—determine whether a device is safe for use in explosive environments. But when it comes to IECEx vs ATEX, which should you prioritize?
In this guide, we’ll break down the differences, similarities, and real-world implications of each certification. We’ll also show you how to choose the right one for your region or industry and highlight certified devices from the Intrinsically Safe Store.
What Is IECEx Certification?
IECEx, or the International Electrotechnical Commission System for Certification to Standards Relating to Equipment for Use in Explosive Atmospheres, is a global certification framework. It ensures that equipment, personnel, and facilities meet safety standards when working in hazardous locations.
Key Facts:
Developed by: International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC)
Accepted in: Australia, Brazil, South Africa, Russia, India, and globally by multinationals
Standards Based On: IEC 60079 series
Zones Covered: 0, 1, 2 (Gas) and 20, 21, 22 (Dust)
Unlike ATEX, IECEx is voluntary in most regions, but it provides a strong assurance of compliance with international standards.
What Is ATEX Certification?
ATEX is a mandatory certification for electrical and mechanical equipment used in potentially explosive atmospheres within the European Union. The name ATEX comes from the French ATmosphères EXplosibles.
Key Facts:
Governed by: EU Directive 2014/34/EU
Mandatory in: European Union
Standards Based On: European Norms (EN 60079 series)
Zones Covered: Identical to IECEx (0, 1, 2 and 20, 21, 22)
ATEX not only includes safety aspects but also health and environmental factors—a broader scope than IECEx in regulatory terms.
IECEx vs ATEX: What Are the Key Differences?
Here’s a side-by-side comparison of both certification systems to help you understand their unique attributes:
| Feature | IECEx | ATEX |
|---|---|---|
| Region of Use | International (e.g., Australia, Asia, Africa) | European Union |
| Legal Status | Voluntary (except where adopted) | Mandatory in EU |
| Basis of Standards | IEC 60079 | EN 60079 |
| Equipment Marking | IECEx scheme number | CE marking with ATEX details |
| Scope | Equipment & personnel competence | Equipment + workplace health and safety |
| Acceptance | Increasingly accepted globally | Required in EU and accepted in trade with EU |
In short: IECEx focuses on international interoperability and standardization, while ATEX is rooted in European Union law and policy.
Need help choosing between ATEX and IECEx? Talk to a compliance expert today for personalized advice.
Why Do These Certifications Matter for Intrinsically Safe Devices?
Using certified equipment ensures:
Compliance with regional laws and regulations
Prevention of ignition in explosive atmospheres
Worker and asset protection
Simplified inspections and audits
Whether you’re purchasing intrinsically safe smartphones, tablets, radios, or gas detectors, ensuring they are properly certified is critical.
When Should You Choose IECEx Certification?
Choose IECEx-certified products if:
You operate outside the European Union
Your plant is in a country that recognizes or participates in IECEx
You want a globally accepted certificate for multinational sites
Your internal safety policy prioritizes international harmonization
IECEx also supports personnel certification, helping ensure that workers are trained to handle explosive environments—an advantage over ATEX.
When Is ATEX Certification the Right Choice?
ATEX certification is essential if:
You sell or operate within any EU member state
You’re planning to export to the EU market
Your insurance, customer, or government body mandates it
You require both safety and environmental compliance
Failure to comply with ATEX regulations in the EU can result in steep penalties, equipment confiscation, or plant shutdowns.
Which Certification Offers Broader Market Access?
While ATEX is essential in the EU, IECEx offers broader global applicability, particularly in Asia-Pacific, Africa, and parts of the Middle East.
For manufacturers and operators aiming for universal compliance, many choose to dual-certify products with both ATEX and IECEx.
Which Intrinsically Safe Devices Offer Both Certifications?
Here are some top-rated devices available from Intrinsically Safe Store that offer dual IECEx and ATEX certifications, ideal for multinational operations:
| Product | Certifications | Features | Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ecom Smart-Ex 02 DZ1 Smartphone | ATEX Zone 1/21, IECEx, CSA | Android 11, LTE, glove-friendly, IP68 | Mobile communication |
| Ecom Tab-Ex 03 DZ1 Tablet | ATEX Zone 1/21, IECEx, CSA | 8” touchscreen, Android 11, rugged | Field inspections |
| RAE Systems MiniRAE 3000+ | ATEX, IECEx | VOC gas detection, wireless monitoring | Environmental safety |
These multi-certified devices simplify procurement and ensure compliance across borders.
Real-World Example: Multinational Compliance
A global chemical manufacturer operating in Germany, Brazil, and India needed a single equipment standard across facilities. By choosing IECEx- and ATEX-certified smartphones from the Intrinsically Safe Store, they:
Avoided region-specific procurement
Simplified internal training
Passed regulatory audits with ease
Common Misconceptions About IECEx vs ATEX
Myth: “If it’s ATEX certified, it’s automatically IECEx compliant.”
Truth: While based on similar standards, the certification processes are different and must be pursued separately.Myth: “IECEx is only useful outside of Europe.”
Truth: IECEx is often accepted in European multinationals, especially for non-EU sites.Myth: “ATEX only applies to electrical devices.”
Truth: ATEX applies to both electrical and mechanical equipment used in explosive atmospheres.
FAQs: IECEx vs ATEX
What’s the main difference between IECEx and ATEX?
ATEX is mandatory within the EU, while IECEx is a voluntary global certification system. Both ensure equipment is safe for explosive environments but have different regulatory frameworks.
Can a device be both ATEX and IECEx certified?
Yes. Many manufacturers dual-certify products to meet both regional and global requirements. This simplifies procurement for international companies.
Is IECEx accepted in the United States?
Not officially. The U.S. primarily uses UL913 and FM approvals, but IECEx-certified devices may be accepted depending on the project scope and customer requirements.
Do ATEX and IECEx use the same zone classifications?
Yes. Both follow the IEC standard for zone classification:
Zone 0/1/2 for gases
Zone 20/21/22 for dusts
How do I know which certification my site requires?
Check:
Your location’s regulations
Customer or contractor requirements
Insurance and compliance documentation
Consulting a safety engineer or compliance officer is strongly recommended.
Conclusion
When it comes to IECEx vs ATEX, the right choice depends on your region, industry, and risk management strategy. For EU operations, ATEX is legally required. For international or multi-country projects, IECEx offers consistent, globally recognized compliance.
The safest bet? Choose devices that are dual-certified to cover all regulatory bases. Fortunately, the Intrinsically Safe Store carries a full range of ATEX- and IECEx-certified equipment to keep your team safe—wherever you operate.
