New ATEX directive 2014/34/EU
What this means for manufacturers and economic operators
The ATEX directive is the name commonly given to the two European Directives for controlling explosive atmospheres; describing what equipment and work environment is allowed in a potentially explosive atmosphere.
Here is a quick overview of the recent changes and likely effects on the ATEX Market.
The major changes to the ATEX equipment directive which will affect manufacturers placing products on the market:
- There is no change to the Essential Requirements of Health and Safety as defined in Annex II;
- There is also no technical change in the various evaluation procedures. The terms of Annexes of the Directive, however, are modified;
- Present EC Type Examination Certificates will change to EU Type Examination Certificates under the new ATEX Directive 2014/34/EU.
What this means: A new EU-type examination certificate will be issued and will require changing of the manufacturer’s documentation.
The main points and their impacts for manufacturers and other economic operators:
- The CE marking is unchanged;
- For already certified products for which there is no major change in the harmonized product standards, the manufacturer may continue to use the EC type examination and the notification of the Quality Assurance System Certification, obtained in accordance with Directive 94/9/EC.
What this means: Manufacturers will need to write new instructions and a new Declaration/Attestation of Conformity with reference to Directive 2014/34/EU instead of the reference to ATEX Directive 94/9/EC.
April 20, 2016 is the first date on which the Notified Bodies can issue the related certificates or notifications.
More frequent product surveillance is expected under the new ATEX Directive 2014/34/EU.
Although 94/9/EC ATEX Certificates will remain valid, it will not be possible to have a variation under the old Directive as the Directive will be repealed after the transition period.
Traceability
The directive also requires traceability of a product to be ensured throughout the whole supply chain. Therefore this directive clarifies requirements for manufacturers, authorised representatives, importers and distributors to make sure that products they place on the market comply with this directive.
One EU declaration of conformity covers equipment under this directive and other applicable directives as well.
A Full copy of the new ATEX Directive 2014-34-EU ATEX Directive can be found here 2014-34-EU ATEX directive.
For more information, please contact your local sales team.