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ATEX certificate

For products in explosive atmospheres

Explosions can have severe consequences. In addition to causing material damage, they can also result in casualties. Explosion safety is therefore an important issue for many companies. An ATEX certificate is an important means of keeping risks under control. Do the ATEX guidelines apply to your organization? On this page we get into detail about ATEX zones and obtaining an ATEX certificate.

What is an ATEX certificate?

An ATEX certificate is a legal requirement for companies in Europe who deal with explosive atmospheres or who sell equipment that is used in these environments. Thanks to the certification, organizations prove that they meet the standards for explosion safety . Compliance with ATEX requirements reduces the risk of explosions and ensures the safety of employees and equipment in hazardous areas.
ATEX is an abbreviation of the French words ATmosphères EXplosibles. This European legislation was established to prevent explosions in companies. Companies where there is a risk of explosion are therefore required to possess an ATEX certificate.

Explosions and ATEX zones

The building blocks of an explosion

  • Oxygen
  • Fuel (gas or dust particles)
  • An ignition source (such as a hot surface)
You can prevent an explosion by removing at least one of the elements mentioned above. For example, by using tools that do not cause sparks or by removing explosive gases. ATEX environments are divided into six zones, each with specific risks and thus its own regulations. Zones 0, 1, and 2 pertain to the risk of gas explosions, while Zones 20, 21, and 22 relate to the risk of dust explosions.
ATEX ZonesType of explosion hazardDefinition
undefinedGas explosion hazardExplosive gas atmosphere present continuously or for long periods.
undefinedGas explosion hazardExplosive gas atmosphere present occasionally during normal operation.
undefinedGas explosion hazardExplosive gas atmosphere unlikely to occur or only for short periods during normal operation.
undefinedDust explosion hazardExplosive dust atmosphere present continuously or for long periods.
undefinedDust explosion hazardExplosive dust atmosphere present occasionally during normal operation.
undefinedDust explosion hazardExplosive dust atmosphere unlikely to occur or only for short periods during normal operation.

How to get an ATEX certificate?

DEKRA is a recognized European Notified Body for testing, assessing, and certifying in the field of ATEX. DEKRA certifies products against the ATEX 114 and ATEX 153 guidelines. Our test results are internationally accepted, allowing you to access international markets. We conduct tests in the Netherlands, Germany, and Korea. Products that meet the applicable standards under ATEX 114 and ATEX 153 receive an ATEX certificate and are recognizable by the ATEX marking.
Benefit from our expertise
The experts at DEKRA are happy to serve as ATEX consultants for your organization. Together with you, they ensure that ATEX certification is within reach. As a European Notified Body, we certify against both ATEX 114 and 153. This demonstrates both nationally and internationally that your products and your work environment meet all the requirements concerning explosion safety.
Why obtain your ATEX certificate with DEKRA?
Quick turnaround

DEKRA offers a short time-to-market, giving you an advantage over the competition.

Global market access

At DEKRA, you can combine multiple international Ex product certifications for Europe, North America, Japan, and Brazil. Based on an IECEx02 certification, several local/national certificates can also be combined through partners.

Reliability

DEKRA has been active in the field of safety for more than 90 years, with extensive experience and expertise. For this reason, we issue more than 500 certificates annually.

State-of-the-art labs

We have ultra-modern test laboratories and multiple large pressure vessels for explosion testing.

Experienced experts

Our qualified and independent experts are always up-to-date with the latest developments and changes in regulations, allowing us to always provide you with appropriate advice.

Want to know more about the requirements of an ATEX certificate?

Get in touch with an expert

Want to how DEKRA can support you with your ATEX certification? Our experts are ready to help you every step of the way, so you can focus on what really matters: the safety of your employees and the success of your business.