Application of the European ATEX Directives on components and equipment of gas installations

Components and operating equipment that are used in potentially explosive areas of gas installations [1] and have their own potential source of ignition are subject to Directive 94/9/EC. The Directive is aimed primarily at manufacturers and has been transferred into national law in Germany as the 11th Regulation on the Product Safety Act. Harmonised standards have been drawn up on the basis of this Directive which the manufacturer can use as proof of conformity. The safe operation of EX installations is subject to the European Directive 1999/92/EC, which, however, only lays down minimum requirements. The Member States are free to implement this Directive with stricter requirements in their national legislation.