3. Conclusion

The 2014 ATEX Directive updated the regulatory requirements relating to the safety of ATEX-certified equipment placed on the European market. As a result, the European Union benefits from a high level of protection for the internal market. However, there is still a lot of work to be done to raise awareness among employees at the sites concerned of the safe repair, maintenance and commissioning of ATEX materials and equipment. In this respect, the new version of NF EN 60079-10-1 makes it possible to optimize the ATEX zone classification of a site, and thus save money on the installation of equipment.

In addition, the draft standard IEC 60079-44 "Competence of persons in explosive atmospheres", supported by IEC TC31, due for publication in March 2020, will further increase the level of competence of those working in ATEX zones.