Is ATEX part of CE?

Introduction

The safety of products is of paramount importance in today's global market. One regulation that aims to ensure the safety of equipment and protective systems used in potentially explosive atmospheres is the ATEX Directive. Alongside ATEX, there is another prominent certification - CE marking. But are these two certifications interconnected? In this article, we will delve into the technical aspects of ATEX and CE, exploring their scope, requirements, and synergy.

Understanding ATEX

ATEX stands for "Atmosphères Explosibles," which is French for "Explosive Atmospheres." The ATEX Directive (2014/34/EU) sets out the legal framework for manufacturers who wish to place equipment or protective systems within the European Union's explosive atmospheres market. It entails strict requirements regarding design, manufacturing, testing, and certification of equipment to minimize the risk of explosion.

The ATEX Directive categorizes products into two groups based on their intended use - Group I for underground mining and Group II for all other sectors. Each group further has subdivisions based on the level of protection provided by the equipment against potential explosions (Gas/Dust).

Introduction to CE Marking

CE marking, also known as the Conformité Européene mark, is a certification that indicates conformity with essential health, safety, and environmental protection standards for products sold within the European Economic Area (EEA). It is mandatory for various product categories, including machinery, electrical equipment, medical devices, and construction products.

CE marking ensures that products meet specific legal requirements and can be freely traded within the EEA without additional checks or restrictions. It signifies that the manufacturer assumes responsibility for compliance with all applicable EU directives concerning the product being placed on the market.

Interrelation between ATEX and CE

While ATEX and CE certifications serve different purposes, they are closely linked together for certain equipment meant to operate in potentially explosive atmospheres. ATEX certification is mandatory for the "equipment" or "protective systems" under the ATEX Directive, whereas CE marking is mandatory for products sold within the EEA.

If a product falls under both the ATEX Directive and another applicable EU directive requiring CE marking, manufacturers must meet the requirements of both directives simultaneously. This means that manufacturers need to ensure their equipment meets the ATEX standards for its intended use in explosive atmospheres, as well as the specific EU directive requirements associated with CE marking.

Conclusion

In conclusion, ATEX and CE certifications are interconnected when it comes to certain types of equipment operating in explosive atmospheres. Manufacturers must adhere to the strict requirements set out by both the ATEX Directive and relevant EU directives demanding CE marking. By obtaining both certifications, manufacturers ensure that their products meet the necessary safety, health, and environmental protection standards, allowing them to be legally placed on the market within the European Union and the broader European Economic Area.

Please note that this article provides a general of the topic and should not replace legal advice or thorough analysis of individual product compliance.