ATEX

The EU introduced the ATEX directives 95 and 137 to cover both equipment used and people working in areas that may occasionally or frequently contain a potentially explosive atmosphere. The letters ATEX come from the french language name for the directives: ATmospheres EXplosif.

In the UK these directives have been implemented within the Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmosphers regulations known by the acronym DSEAR. Users should be aware that the UK DSEAR regulations cover more than just ATEX and so within the UK compliance with the regulations requires more than just ATEX compliance and this is particularly important when purchasing equipment and designs from other member states of the EU.

For more information on DSEAR click here.