IECEx compared to European ATEX 114

At the moment the IECEx system is the law in Australia and New Zealand. But the aim is for IECEx to become a global system. IECEx is often accepted in other countries, but as an alternative to local legislation.?

The standards of the IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission) are used directly by the IECEx certification scheme. Local certification schemes like ATEX also use these technical IEC standards, but often with additional local requirements. European EN standards and the Dutch NEN standards under ATEX are based on these IEC standards, but contain additional requirements with regard to equipment groups and categories. Currently, the IECEx system consists of five modules: basic rules, equipment for use in explosion safe areas, repair companies, IECEx conformity marking and personnel competence.?

ATEX 114

IECEx 02 (equipment for use in explosion safe areas) is similar to the European ATEX 114, it is a solid base to obtain local certification. Technical standards are usually the same, with additions in the field of marking and documentation. Once the IECEx standards are met, it becomes relatively easy to obtain local certification in countries like Brazil, China and throughout Europe. Furthermore, any IECEx certified product can be marketed in Australia, New Zealand and Singapore right away.

Test report stricter than ATEX

The IECEx test report is an important information carrier and therefore stricter requirements apply than for an ATEX test report. All IECEx accredited Notified Bodies must accept each other’s IECEx test reports so that information can easily be exchanged. Notified Bodies also use the IECEx test reports for the ATEX certification of products.