You’re comparing two hazardous-area phones. Both say “certified for explosive atmospheres.” One lists ATEX. The other lists IECEx. A third lists both.
So does the label actually matter?
Yes, but it’s simpler than it looks. ATEX and IECEx are two routes to the same goal: proving a device is safe to use where gas or dust could explode. This guide explains what each one is, how they differ, and which one you need, in plain English.
What is ATEX?
ATEX is the European Union’s legal framework for equipment and workplaces with explosive atmospheres. The name comes from the French phrase ATmosphères EXplosibles. It’s made up of two EU Directives:
- Directive 2014/34/EU is for manufacturers. It sets the safety requirements equipment must meet before it can be sold in the EU.
- Directive 1999/92/EC is for employers. It sets the rules for protecting workers in hazardous areas, including classifying them into zones.
For equipment used in higher-risk areas such as Zone 1, a manufacturer must have the design independently assessed by an EU Notified Body, then apply the CE marking and the Ex symbol. In short: for covered equipment, no ATEX certification means no legal sale in the EU.
What is IECEx?
IECEx is an international certification scheme for equipment used in explosive atmospheres. It’s run by the IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission) and built on the IEC 60079 series of standards. The idea is simple: test a product once, to one global standard, and use that result to help it gain acceptance in many countries.
IECEx is voluntary. Nobody is forced to use it. But buyers often ask for it, and regulators in many regions recognise it, especially where ATEX doesn’t apply. Its certificates, called Certificates of Conformity, are published in an online database, so anyone can look them up.
ATEX and IECEx: A Quick Comparison
| ATEX | IECEx | |
| What it is | European legal framework (two EU Directives) | International certification scheme |
| Legal status | Mandatory in the EU for covered equipment | Voluntary, but widely requested and recognised |
| Where it matters most | European Union (and Northern Ireland) | Many countries around the world |
| Technical basis | Harmonised European standards (EN IEC 60079 series) | IEC 60079 series |
| Proof you can ask for | EU-type examination certificate and CE marking with the Ex symbol | IECEx Certificate of Conformity, searchable online |
| How equipment is described | Equipment categories (1, 2, 3) | Equipment Protection Levels (Ga, Gb, Gc) |
Which one do you need?
It depends on where the equipment will be used:
- EU and Northern Ireland: ATEX with CE marking is required.
- Great Britain: CE marking under ATEX is currently accepted, and UKCA (UKEX) is also available. Check the latest government guidance.
- Outside Europe: IECEx is widely accepted or requested, Some countries also add local approvals, so check your national rules.
- More than one region: A product certified to both ATEX and IECEx makes life much easier.
Not sure? Ask your safety officer or supplier which certificates your site and country require.
How to check a certificate
- Ask for the certificate, not just the brochure.
- IECEx: search the certificate number in the IECEx online certificate database.
- ATEX: check the certificate number, the Ex symbol and the Notified Body number that appears next to the CE marking.
- Compare it with the device label. Make sure the zone, gas group and temperature class cover your site, and that the model, battery and accessories are all included.
Conclusion
ATEX and IECEx aren’t competing choices. ATEX is the law for the European market. IECEx is a global passport that helps equipment gain acceptance elsewhere. Both point to the same IEC 60079 standards, and the safest choice for a multi-region business is equipment that carries both.
Whatever the label says, check the certificate, match the marking to your zone and buy from a supplier who can show you the paperwork.