What is ATEX?
ATEX is the name of two EU directives describing the minimum safety measures to be taken for workplaces and equipment used in explosive atmospheres.
Explosive atmospheres can be flammable gases, mists, vapours, dust or powder clouds mixed with the oxygen in the air. Energy added, like an ignition can cause an explosion. In order to prevent such an event, the European Union has laid out a set of directives to enhance safety working condition in such hazardous areas.
ATEX stands for..
The word ATEX itself is derived from an older European directive, the French title of the 94/9/EC directive: Appareils destinés à être utilisés en ATmosphères EXplosibles (material suited for usage in explosion hazardous areas).