If you work in industries like oil and gas, chemical processing, or mining, safety is always a top priority. One of the most critical safety measures in these high-risk environments is using explosion-proof equipment. The explosion proof standard is designed to ensure that electrical and mechanical devices can operate safely in hazardous locations without igniting flammable gases, vapors, or dust.
These standards are crucial in preventing workplace accidents, protecting personnel, and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements. But what exactly is an explosion proof standard, and how does it impact industrial operations? In this guide, we will cover everything you need to know about explosion proof standards, their applications, testing requirements, and the industries that rely on them. We will also explore how Conquest EX’s ATEX & IECEx-certified devices provide safe and reliable communication solutions for hazardous environments.
An explosion proof standard is a set of safety regulations that determines how equipment should be designed, manufactured, and tested to prevent explosions in hazardous environments. These standards ensure that equipment can withstand ignition sources and contain internal explosions to prevent them from spreading.
Explosion-proof equipment is designed to function safely in locations where flammable substances are present. This is achieved through several key design features:
 Explosion-proof standards vary by region and industry, ensuring that electrical and mechanical equipment can operate safely in hazardous environments. These standards regulate design, construction, testing, and certification to prevent explosions caused by electrical sparks, heat, or static discharge. Each standard has specific classification systems to define the level of risk and the required safety measures.
Understanding the different explosion-proof standards is essential for businesses operating globally. If your company uses industrial machinery, lighting, control panels, or communication devices in hazardous locations, compliance with local and international explosion-proof regulations is crucial to maintaining safety and legal operation.
Below, we explore the most widely recognized explosion proof standards, their classifications, and how they apply to various industries.
ATEX is the mandatory explosion-proof certification required for all electrical and mechanical equipment used in hazardous locations within the European Union (EU). It is governed by two directives:
Under ATEX regulations, hazardous areas are classified into different zones based on the likelihood of an explosive atmosphere being present:
To be ATEX certified, equipment must pass extensive testing and receive the CE marking with an Ex symbol, ensuring compliance with European safety requirements.
IECEx is a globally recognized certification system that provides a standardized approach for testing and certifying explosion-proof equipment across multiple countries. Unlike ATEX, which is mandatory in the EU, IECEx is voluntary but widely accepted in over 30 countries, including Australia, South Africa, Brazil, and parts of Asia.
IECEx certification offers several benefits:
IECEx classifies hazardous environments similarly to ATEX (Zone 0, Zone 1, Zone 2), making it easier for companies to comply with both standards when operating in different regions.
In the United States, explosion-proof equipment must comply with the National Electrical Code (NEC), which is regulated by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) under Articles 500-506. The NEC classifies hazardous locations into Divisions and Classes rather than zones.
Within each class, hazardous areas are further divided into:
For a product to be NEC-compliant, it must undergo strict testing and approval by recognized certification bodies such as UL (Underwriters Laboratories) or FM Global.
The Canadian Electrical Code (CEC) closely follows NEC classifications but includes additional regional modifications. CEC defines hazardous areas using the Class/Division system, similar to NEC, but also recognizes the ATEX/IECEx zone system for specific applications.
In Canada, explosion-proof equipment must be certified by CSA (Canadian Standards Association) or an equivalent approval body. CSA-certified devices meet rigorous testing for extreme cold conditions, which is critical for industries operating in Canada’s harsh climates.
The CSA Group provides testing, certification, and compliance services for explosion-proof products used in North America. CSA certification is widely accepted in both Canada and the U.S. and ensures that equipment meets NEC and CEC safety requirements.
CSA-certified explosion-proof equipment is required in oil refineries, mining sites, chemical plants, and hazardous manufacturing facilities across North America.
Brazil follows the INMETRO certification system, which aligns with IECEx requirements but includes local testing requirements specific to South America. Equipment must be tested and approved by accredited INMETRO laboratories before being used in hazardous locations within Brazil.
Russia and other CIS (Commonwealth of Independent States) countries use the GOST certification system, which follows safety standards similar to IECEx and ATEX. Equipment used in Russian hazardous locations must comply with TR CU 012/2011, a technical regulation covering explosion-proof machinery.
In China, explosion-proof equipment must meet GB (Guobiao) standards, regulated by the National Supervision and Inspection Center for Explosion Protection and Safety. The GB3836 standard aligns with IECEx, but local testing is mandatory before equipment can be used in China’s industries.
If your company operates in multiple countries, understanding different explosion proof standards is essential to ensure compliance, avoid legal issues, and maintain workplace safety. Companies that manufacture or supply explosion-proof equipment must navigate different certification systems to sell products internationally.
Here’s why global explosion-proof certification matters:
If you are in an industry that requires explosion-proof equipment, ensure that your devices comply with the correct certification system for your region. Investing in properly certified equipment protects your workforce, reduces downtime, and ensures smooth operations in hazardous environments.
To receive an explosion proof certification, equipment must pass strict testing procedures conducted by accredited certification bodies. These tests assess whether the equipment meets the necessary safety requirements for use in hazardous environments.
In oil refineries, drilling rigs, and natural gas processing plants, the presence of flammable gases and vapors makes explosion-proof equipment a necessity. Devices such as explosion-proof lighting, control panels, and enclosures ensure safety in these high-risk environments.
Chemical plants handle volatile substances that can easily ignite if exposed to a spark. Explosion-proof motors, pumps, and sensors help mitigate these risks and keep operations running safely.
The mining sector faces constant threats from methane gas leaks and combustible dust. Explosion-proof communication devices, motors, and ventilation systems are essential for preventing underground accidents.
In aerospace and military operations, explosion-proof equipment is used for fuel storage, munitions handling, and secure communication systems. These devices ensure safe operation in highly explosive environments.
When selecting explosion-proof equipment, consider the following factors:
Conquest EX specializes in ATEX & IECEx-certified rugged smartphones built for harsh industrial environments. These devices are designed to provide safe and reliable communication in hazardous areas.
Industry-Proven Solutions – Used by professionals across various high-risk sectors.
Explosion proof standards ensure that equipment used in hazardous environments does not ignite flammable substances.
No. Intrinsically safe equipment limits electrical energy to prevent ignition, while explosion-proof equipment contains explosions within a durable enclosure.
Industries like oil & gas, chemical processing, mining, aerospace, and defense all require explosion-proof solutions.
Look for ATEX, IECEx, UL, or CSA certification labels on the product.
ATEX is specific to Europe, while IECEx is a globally recognized certification for explosion-proof equipment.
Yes, as long as it has the appropriate weather-resistant certifications.
Regular inspections should be conducted every 6-12 months to ensure continued safety and compliance.
You can purchase certified explosion-proof devices from Conquest EX.
