Implementing ATEX Conformity Assessment Procedures In Non-EU Countries—Challenges And Risks In The Application Of EU Law

This presentation highlights the challenges—as well as the resulting risks and legal uncertainties—of relocating certification processes for European Directive 2014/34/EU outside of the EU.

2014/34/EU harmonizes EU member states' laws relating to equipment and protective systems intended for use in potentially explosive atmospheres (ATEX). It contains fundamental health and safety requirements in the field of explosion protection that must be adhered to, observed and verified by the manufacturers of corresponding components and protective systems used in the EU. While conforming with this assessment procedure/certification process forms the basis of 2014/34/EU, the role of independent third parties, the so-called notified bodies, in carrying out the process—especially in non-EU countries, may potentially prove problematic initially.