Manufacturers that export, or plan to, frequently encounter the question: "Is ATEX enough, or should we also get IECEx?" Although these two certification schemes are very similar to each other, they serve different purposes. In this article we explain the key differences between them and when you will need which one.
What Is ATEX, What Is IECEx?
| ATEX | IECEx | |
|---|---|---|
| Nature | The EU's legally binding directive (2014/34/EU) | An international, voluntary certification scheme |
| Administering body | The European Union | International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) |
| Scope of validity | EU member states and countries that have harmonized with EU legislation (including Türkiye) | Recognized across countries participating in the scheme (Middle East, Asia-Pacific, Australia, some countries in the Americas) |
| Standards used | EN 60079 series (harmonized European standards) | IEC 60079 series (the international standards that form the basis of the EN standards) |
| Mandatory status | Mandatory for sales to the EU/Turkish market | Not mandatory, but facilitates the local approval process in many countries |
| Document | EU Declaration of Conformity + CE/Ex mark | IECEx Certificate of Conformity (CoC) and Test Report |
Why Are the Two So Similar?
The EN 60079 series of standards is largely derived from the IEC 60079 series; for this reason, the technical test requirements of the two schemes overlap significantly. This overlap provides a practical advantage for manufacturers: most of the tests carried out for ATEX can also be used as a reference in an IECEx application, which significantly reduces the additional testing and cost required for a second certification.
Which One Do You Need, and When?
- If you sell only to the EU/Turkish market: ATEX alone is sufficient.
- If you plan to export outside the EU (Middle East, Asia, Australia, etc.): IECEx can significantly speed up the local approval process in the target country; many countries accept the IECEx certificate directly, or through a facilitated route, in their local legislation.
- If you have a global product portfolio: Holding both certificates together reduces dependence on a single market and shortens the time to enter new markets.
A Practical Approach
The approach SAFETEST recommends is to take both the EN and IEC 60079 series standards into account together at the product design stage, and structure the test plan accordingly. This way, a single test campaign yields data that forms the basis for both an ATEX and an IECEx application; a much more economical route than planning two processes separately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a product with an IECEx certificate automatically also comply with ATEX?
No, not automatically. IECEx and ATEX are separate certification schemes; however, because their test methods largely overlap, IECEx tests can generally be used as a reference in an ATEX application.
Does a manufacturer that sells only to the Turkish and EU market need IECEx?
No, ATEX is sufficient on its own for a manufacturer that sells only to the EU/Turkish market; IECEx adds value if exports outside the EU are planned.
Who administers IECEx?
IECEx is a voluntary international scheme administered by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), carried out through globally authorized certification and testing bodies.
Conclusion
ATEX is a mandatory requirement for sales to the EU/Turkish market; IECEx is a strategic complement for manufacturers who want to go beyond this market. The significant overlap in the standards of the two schemes makes holding both economically feasible with a correctly planned test campaign.
For more information, see our ATEX consultancy service.
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