What is ATEX? – the two EU directives on explosion protection
ATEX is the European Union's framework for explosion protection — the name stands for ATmosphères EXplosives. It rests on two directives: one imposing duties on the manufacturer, the other on the operator. Here is a plain-language summary of what this means in practice.
What is ATEX? – two key EU directives
The ATEX framework consists of two directives that address two different actors. It is worth being clear about which one applies to whom:
"ATEX Product Directive" (ATEX 114)
Covers the manufacturing and placing on the market of equipment and protective systems intended for use in explosive atmospheres — the goal is a properly certified, marked Ex product.
"ATEX Workplace Directive" (ATEX 137 / 153)
Imposes duties on the employer / operator: risk assessment, zone classification, selection of suitable equipment, explosion protection document and training.
Employer / operator duties — Hungarian decree 3/2003
In Hungary, the 1999/92/EC workplace directive is transposed by Decree 3/2003 (III. 11.) FMM–ESzCsM, "on the minimum occupational safety requirements for workplaces with potentially explosive atmospheres". The operator's main duties are:
- Assess the explosion risks — for gas (G) and dust (D) atmospheres.
- Classify zones within the work areas (0/1/2 for gas, 20/21/22 for dust).
- Have the Explosion Protection Document (EPD) prepared before initial commissioning.
- Define and implement the necessary technical and organisational protective measures.
- Keep the EPD up to date — on every technological change, and in practice reviewed at least every 3 years.
How does ATEX-FullCare support operators?
Risk assessment & zone classification
For gas (G) and dust (D) atmospheres — see zone classification for drawings and zone maps to IEC 60079-10.
EPD preparation or update
Full Explosion Protection Document for existing facilities, in line with Decree 3/2003.
Periodic inspection
IEC 60079-17 inspection with photo-documented report and a prioritised defect list.
Who is responsible for what?
If the roles (operator, designer, contractor, authority) are not clear, see the ATEX knowledge base — who does what? page.
Not sure whether your site is subject to ATEX?
Book a free 30–60 minute online needs assessment, or fill in the 2-minute self-test. We talk through what is actually needed — and I close with a concrete written quote.