ATEX: complete guide to explosive atmospheres regulations

The ATEX (ATmosphères EXplosibles) regulations govern safety in workplaces where explosive atmospheres can form—mixtures of flammable gases, vapors, mists, or dusts with air. The European framework is based on two main directives:

ATEX 114 / Directive 2014/34/EU, covering the design, manufacture, and marketing of equipment intended for explosive-risk environments;

ATEX 137 / Directive 1999/92/EC, aimed at employers, requiring risk assessment, zone classification (Zones 0, 1, 2 for gases/vapors; Zones 20, 21, 22 for dusts), and preventive and protective measures.

ATEX applies to diverse industrial sectors, from large chemical and petrochemical plants to pharmaceutical, food, textile, wood, and mechanical industries. Less obvious contexts, such as silos, laboratories, and wastewater treatment plants, are also included.

To ensure safety and compliance, companies must:

correctly classify hazardous zones;

select ATEX-certified equipment according to category and intended use;

implement ventilation, gas detection, and fire prevention systems;

train personnel and establish operating and emergency procedures;

prepare and update the Explosion Protection Document (EPD) following modifications, incidents, or regulatory changes.

Proper knowledge and application of ATEX directives reduce explosion risks, protect people and assets, and ensure European compliance, becoming a key factor in workplace safety and business competitiveness.