IEC 60079-17 periodic ATEX inspection
Standard IEC 60079-17 defines the method, depth and documentation of periodic inspection of Ex equipment. Three inspection grades – visual, close and detailed – with a photo-documented report.
Periodic inspection is a legal and standard obligation
Decree 3/2003 (FMM–ESzCsM) requires the operator to ensure proper maintenance and inspection of Ex equipment. The detailed methodology for this is set out in IEC 60079-17 – the standard authorities and insurers refer to at an inspection.
Visual, close and detailed – what they mean in practice
Visual inspection
Checking visible damage, signs of corrosion and missing parts without opening anything. Can be carried out without shutting the equipment down.
Annual cycleClose inspection
Includes everything in the visual inspection, plus checking concealed surfaces – without opening. Cable glands, covers and threaded joints.
1–3 year cycleDetailed inspection
Opening, internal check, measurements: flameproof gap, joint, insulation resistance, cable-entry dimensions. Photo-documented, itemised inspection sheet.
3–5 year cycleThe inspection grades at a glance
The three grades build on each other: close includes visual, and detailed includes close. The right grade depends on the zone, the equipment type and the risk.
Inspection criteria per IEC 60079-17
| Inspection item | Visual | Close | Detailed |
|---|---|---|---|
| External damage, corrosion | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Certificate and marking check | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Condition of cable glands | – | ✓ | ✓ |
| Stopping plugs, covers, threaded joints | – | ✓ | ✓ |
| Suitability of cable type | – | ✓ | ✓ |
| Gas group / T-class suitability | – | ✓ | ✓ |
| IP rating check | – | ✓ | ✓ |
| Flameproof gap measurement | – | – | ✓ |
| Insulation resistance measurement | – | – | ✓ |
| Internal condition, contacts | – | – | ✓ |
What we most often find during inspection
- Missing or damaged cable gland – the most common single fault.
- Missing stopping plugs in cable-entry openings.
- Wrong gas group or T-class – unsuitable equipment.
- Corroded cover bolts – flame transmission cannot be prevented.
- Expired or missing Ex certificate on the equipment.
- Unsuitable cable type (wrong sheath material in an Ex zone).
- Earthing and equipotential bonding undocumented or faulty.
- Modified equipment – not carried over into the EPD.
The result of an IEC 60079-17 inspection
Photo-documented inspection sheet
An itemised, photo-backed inspection sheet for every item of equipment – in IEC 60079-17 format, with identifier and location.
Prioritised fault list
Immediate / planned / next-cycle fault categories – not just a list, but a concrete action recommendation.
Repair proposal with parts list
For each fault: the recommended solution, the material/part required, and the Ex marking needed for the replacement.
English summary
An English summary on request – for an insurer audit, parent-company review or a foreign partner.
- Carried out by a CompEx-certified expert, per IEC 60079-17.
- For both gas (IIA/IIB/IIC) and dust (IIIA/IIIB/IIIC) environments.
- The documentation is usable at authority and insurer inspections.
- 17 years of offshore experience – to the strictest industrial standards.
Do you need an IEC 60079-17 inspection?
Request a free 30–60 minute online needs assessment. We'll discuss the site, the number of Ex items and the date of the last inspection – I'll close with a concrete quote.
- Briefly describe the site location and the medium (gas or dust)
- How many Ex items are involved and when the last inspection was
- What you need help with: visual / close / detailed inspection
- Your desired deadline