ATEX certification refers to the Directive on Equipment and Protective Systems for Potential Explosive Environments (94/9/EC) adopted by the European Commission on March 23, 1994.
This directive covers both mining and non mining equipment. Unlike previous directives, it includes mechanical and electrical equipment, extending the potential explosive hazard environment to dust and flammable gases, flammable vapors, and mist in the air. This directive is commonly referred to as the ATEX 100A "New Method" directive, which is the current ATEX Explosion Protection Directive. It specifies the technical requirements for equipment intended for use in potentially explosive environments - basic health and safety requirements and the conformity assessment procedures that must be adopted before the equipment is placed on the European market within its scope of use.