• Degree of Harmonization.     Total harmonization is mandatory.

• Scope.     All equipment and protective systems intended for use in potentially explosive atmospheres and auxiliary items.

• Areas of use.     All potentially explosive atmospheres - flammable gases, vapors, mists, or dusts - with specific exceptions like medical and home environments, ships, and public transport.
  

• Combustible Dust Hazards.     Technical requirements for equipment and protective systems where the risk arises from combustible dust are covered by the Essential Health and Safety Requirements.
  

• Equipment Categories.     Equipment is divided into two groups:

• I. Coal-mining (two subcategorize);
• II. Others (three subcategories).
  

• Technical Requirements.     This is a "New Approach" Directive. It specifies the Essential Health and Safety Requirements (EHSR's) which must be met, but accepts compliance with other harmonized standards.
  

• Conformity Assessment.     Adopts various procedures ranging from EC-Type  Examination to control of production by the manufacturer.
  

• Marking.     The "CE conformity marking" is mandatory. In special cases, the ID number of the Notified Body is also required. Other markings may be required.
  

• Documentation.     Manufacturers are required to maintain technical records of all matters relating to explosion safety of equipment. All quality-system documentation must also be available.

Links: More information on ATEX may be found at:

 
• Europa ATEX page and Document
• ATEX 118a  - Directive:
• DMT
• HSE UK
• Extronics - The "USE" Directive
• Epsilon Technical Services Limited - Full ATEX Directive
• SIRA - ATEX 137
• UL  -Hazloc site: