ATEX Directive 2014/34/EU is one of the important European directive aligned to the New Legislative Framework. It lays down Essential Health and Safety Requirements (EHSRs) relating to the design and construction of tools and protective systems intended for use in potentially explosive atmospheres.
Directive 2014/34/EU provides necessities for electrical and non-electrical equipment, intended for use in potentially explosive dust or gaseous atmosphere.
The Directive applies to electrical and/or mechanical tools used on the surface, below the ground and on fixed offshore installations. In particular, the Directive covers:
All tools proposed for use in potentially explosive atmospheres and which are able of causing an explosion through their own potential sources of ignition.
Protective systems intended for use in potentially explosive environment. Protective systems are defined as units which are intended to halt incipient explosions suddenly and/or to limit the effective range of explosion flames and explosion forces
Components, which are definite as any item essential to the safe functioning of tools and protective systems but with no autonomous function.