ATEX vs IECEx: Choosing the Right Certification for Fans

09.09.2025

ATEX vs IECEx: Understanding Hazardous Area Certification for Industrial Fans and Blowers

When dealing with hazardous environments, safety is non-negotiable. For industries handling flammable gases, dust, or vapours, choosing the right equipment is critical to prevent accidents and ensure compliance with international safety standards. Two of the most recognised certifications for explosion-proof equipment are ATEX and IECEx. But what are they, how do they differ, and why does it matter when selecting fans and blowers?

What is ATEX?

ATEX (derived from the French ATmosphères EXplosibles) is the European certification framework for equipment used in explosive atmospheres.

• Geographic scope: Primarily required within the European Union.
• Directive: ATEX 2014/34/EU covers equipment and protective systems intended for use in potentially explosive atmospheres.
• Marking: Certified products carry the ATEX marking, showing compliance with EU safety standards.

For industrial fans and blowers, an ATEX certification ensures the equipment is suitable for use in areas where explosive gases or dust are present, such as in chemical plants, food processing, and oil & gas facilities.

What is IECEx?

IECEx stands for the International Electrotechnical Commission System for Certification to Standards Relating to Equipment for Use in Explosive Atmospheres.

• Geographic scope: Recognised globally, particularly outside the EU (Australia, Asia, parts of the Middle East, and Africa).
• Standard basis: Relies on IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission) standards, ensuring consistency across countries.
• Certification system: Provides a single global framework for testing and certification.

IECEx certification offers reassurance for companies operating across multiple regions that their equipment meets international safety requirements.

ATEX vs IECEx: Key Differences

While both certifications aim to protect workers and facilities in hazardous environments, there are some important distinctions:

• Region of Use: ATEX certification is a legal requirement within the European Union. IECEx is internationally recognised and widely accepted across the world, especially outside the EU.
• Regulatory Basis: ATEX is based on EU Directive 2014/34/EU, which lays out specific rules for equipment used in explosive atmospheres. IECEx is built on International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) standards, offering a more global and uniform approach.
• Certification Process: Under ATEX, the assessment and certification process can vary depending on the notified body within each EU member state. IECEx follows a centralised and consistent global testing process, which helps streamline compliance across multiple markets.
• Documentation: With ATEX, manufacturers issue an EU Declaration of Conformity. IECEx provides a Certificate of Conformity, recognised across participating countries.
• Market Adoption: ATEX is focused on the European market, while IECEx is designed for global acceptance. Many companies operating internationally prefer equipment certified to both standards to cover every operational scenario.

Why Does Certification Matter for Fans and Blowers?

Fans and blowers used in hazardous zones must be designed to eliminate ignition risks. Without proper certification:

• Equipment could generate sparks or excessive heat.
• Operators risk workplace explosions.
• Businesses face legal, safety, and insurance consequences.

Choosing an ATEX- or IECEx-certified fan ensures compliance, protects workers, and maintains reliable operation in high-risk industries.

Which Should You Choose – ATEX or IECEx?

The right certification depends on where your equipment will be installed:

• EU projects: ATEX is a legal requirement.
• Global operations: IECEx provides wider recognition.
• Dual compliance: Many manufacturers (including Fans and Blowers) offer products certified to both ATEX and IECEx, covering all regulatory bases.

Fans and Blowers ATEX & IECEx Solutions

At Fans and Blowers, we supply a wide range of explosion-proof centrifugal fans and blowers designed for hazardous industries. Our equipment is available with ATEX certification, providing you with complete confidence in compliance, performance, and safety—regardless of where your operations are based worldwide.

Whether you need a fan for petrochemical processing, grain handling, or pharmaceutical manufacturing, our engineering team can guide you to the right certified solution.

Final Thoughts

When comparing ATEX vs IECEx, the key lies in understanding the geographical and regulatory scope of your project. Both certifications ensure equipment safety in explosive atmospheres, but ATEX is EU-focused, while IECEx provides a global framework.

For industries using fans and blowers in hazardous environments, selecting the correct certification is more than a regulatory requirement—it’s a safeguard for people, processes, and long-term reliability.