Scope of the Directive

Equipment in the scope of the ATEX directive is divided into groups and categories depending on the intended use and the duration or frequency of the presence of the explosive atmosphere. These divisions are similar to, but not the same as, the zones used in North America.

Group I is for equipment used in underground mines; Group II is for all other equipment. In addition, there are three categories ranging from continuously or frequently present explosive atmospheres to infrequent or short duration explosive atmospheres.

Examples of Group II equipment are listed below:

• Electrical equipment
• Non-electrical equipment
• Safety devices, controlling devices, and regulating devices
• Machines
• Conveyor equipment
• Internal combustion engines