This article aims to provide a brief overview of the differences between the IECEx and the ATEX Systems relating to specific items commonly raised.

ATEX (Atmosphères Explosibles) is a certification for equipment used in potentially explosive atmospheres in the European Union. The ATEX Directive 2014/34/EU and Directive 99/92/EC define the technical and legal requirements for equipment intended to be used in potentially explosive atmospheres. The ATEX certification is mandatory for products sold in the European Union.

IECEx (International Electrotechnical Commission System for Certification to Standards Relating to Equipment for Use in Explosive Atmospheres) is a voluntary certification scheme for equipment used in potentially explosive atmospheres worldwide. The IECEx certification is recognized by many countries and is intended to simplify the process of getting equipment certified for use in different countries.

While both schemes have similar objectives, there are some differences between the two. One of the main differences is that ATEX is mandatory in the European Union, while IECEx is voluntary. Additionally, ATEX certification is only valid in the European Union, while IECEx certification is recognized by many countries worldwide. Finally, the testing and certification procedures used by ATEX and IECEx differ slightly, but both are based on similar international standards.

In summary, ATEX is a mandatory certification scheme for equipment used in potentially explosive atmospheres in the European Union, while IECEx is a voluntary certification scheme that is recognized by many countries worldwide.