ATEX Directive 2014/34/EU (earlier 94/9/EU)

Equipment, protective systems and components intended for use in a potentially explosive atmosphere (ATEX), must comply with the product requirements of the ATEX Directive in Europe. The product requirements are defined by so-called essential requirements. Manufacturers who are planning to place such equipment or components on the market and /or put these into use within Europe must meet these requirements.

A number of products are excluded from the scope of the ATEX Directive. These include, among others seagoing vessels and military equipment. These products do not have to meet the requirements of the ATEX Directive.

The ATEX directive classifies equipment into groups and categories which are defined by the marking on the equipment