Team HydITEx has extensive knowledge about Ex equipment, hydrogen energy and International standards IECEx, ISO for hydrogen, IECQ for carbon footprint, hydrogen and nuclear supply chain. You can benefit from the purpose of the IECEx system by facilitating the international exchange of equipment and services intended for use in explosive atmospheres. The IECEx system provides one international database. The IECEx scheme has a mandatory quality audit process that must be met in order to remain in compliance with requirements.

UN endorsement

UN endorsement  —  the United Nations, via UNECE, has endorsed  IECEx as the internationally-recognized  certification system for promoting the  safety of equipment, services and personnel  associated with devices, systems and  installations used in explosive areas.

Any United Nations Member State that has no regulatory framework in the explosive equipment sector can use the model as a blueprint for legislation. If countries already have such a framework, they could consider gradually converging towards this international model. Once the model has been adopted as national legislation, the sector will operate under a single common regulatory framework in all participating countries. Official publication of the CRA (CRO) by UN 2011 and 2019 signifies the formal endorsement of the IECEx System and its Conformity Assessment Schemes covering.

The IECEx System has been formally endorsed by the United Nations as the "world's best practice and recommended model" for regulators overseeing the use of Ex equipment and services.

International Renewable Energy Agency

The IEC is a knowledge and ecosystem partner of IRENA’s global Alliance for Industry Decarbonization (AFID) and the Utilities for Net Zero Alliance (UNEZA).

What’s more, in an ongoing close collaboration with IRENA, IECEx (the IEC System for Certification to Standards Relating to Equipment for Use in Explosive Atmosphere) is contributing to developing a future roadmap for quality infrastructure for clean hydrogen production.

IECEx oversees the compliance with international standards that address hydrogen safety, and its certification continues to be a valuable tool for facilitating trade at national levels and across international markets.

Consortia and IEC working together

The consortia bring their technical specifications to the world stage and integrate them into the existing international standardization system IEC, which complies with the rules of the World Trade Organization (WTO).

Consortia play an important role in the development of standards, their adoption and use for global trade. The IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission) has concluded more than 750 cooperation agreements with more than 200 organizations, which has led to the emergence of many important international standards.

The partnership between IEC and the consortia allows you to exchange ideas in order to stay up to date with the latest developments in the market.

Through joint efforts, IEC and consortia are effectively managing the rapid pace of digital and technological change.

The IEC cooperates with regional and international bodies to reduce duplication and encourage the implementation of IEC International Standards.

What is IECEx?

IEC = International Electrotechnical Commission

International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), registered in Switzerland, is a non-profit company. IEC: beginning in St. Louis, 1904: Palace of Electricity. Officially created in 1906. Lord Kelvin is the first President of the IEC. Created to meet the needs of industry.

Ex = Explosive atmospheres

IEC + Ex = IECEx

IECEx System = IEC System for Certification to Standards relating to Equipment for use in Explosive Atmospheres

IECEx is a voluntary system which provides an internationally accepted means of proving compliance with IEC standards. IEC standards are used in many national approval schemes and as such, IECEx certification can be used to support national compliance, negating the need in most cases for additional testing. IECEx is not just a compliance system aimed at preventing explosions, but also a strategic tool for responsible global trade in high-risk sectors. This integrated approach contributes to the creation of a global ecosystem in which security is perceived as a shared responsibility and a catalyst for economic growth, rather than as an obstacle.

Hydrogen energy

IECEx certifies electrical and non-electrical equipment, components, and systems designed for use in explosive atmospheres where hydrogen may be present. This includes equipment for hydrogen production, dispensing, storage, and utilization. A new standard, IECEx OD 290, was specifically published for the certification of industrial systems using hydrogen as an energy source. IEC TC 31 has an "Hydrogen Advisory Group" (AG 59) to address the growing needs of the hydrogen economy. IECEx actively collaborates with other international organizations like ISO (International Organization for Standardization), particularly ISO TC 197 "Hydrogen Technologies" and IEC TC 105 "Fuel Cells," to ensure a comprehensive approach to hydrogen safety. IECEx also work with organizations like IRENA (International Renewable Energy Agency) to develop quality infrastructure roadmaps for clean hydrogen.

The American Petroleum Institute (API), founded in 1919, has become a foundation for improving safety in the industry worldwide and has influenced government policies to support a strong and viable oil and gas industry. In a hundred years, IECEx, in cooperation with ISO, will become a similar platform for the development of hydrogen energy.

In essence, IECEx provides technical standards and certification for the "Ex" (Explosion protection) aspects of hydrogen infrastructure and components, in particular for hydrogen transportation and hydrogen-fueled vehicles. We help countries create a secure regulatory framework for the export/import of hydrogen and the development of hydrogen infrastructure based on IECEx and ISO standards.

The Benefits of IECEx

The scope of application of IECEx is widespread and covers not only electrical and mechanical equipment intended for hazardous areas, but also the services provided in these conditions and the competence of the personnel working in them.

The fact that many countries operate under different standards means that Ex equipment often needs to be re-tested and re-certified to the appropriate standards of that country, adding to the cost of the equipment.

The IECEx scheme significantly reduces the need for re-testing and certification by conforming to international IEC standards, and therefore makes international trade easier, quicker and more cost effective.

Given its global reach and work in numerous national and regional jurisdictions, IECEx has established comprehensive rules to preserve integrity and trust.

IECEx Certificate Database

A critical component underpinning IECEx's transparency and verification is its Internet On-Line Certificate System (OCS). IECEx's goal is to improve compliance and simplify audits worldwide. This centralized international database meticulously lists all IECEx certified Ex equipment, components, personnel, and facilities. A fundamental principle of the system is that if a certificate is not listed on the OCS, it is not considered IECEx certified. This online system is a reliable and user-friendly tool with filters and sorting for professionals working in hazardous conditions. It provides complete transparency and allows for instant verification of certified organizations.

If you are looking for IECEx certificates, please visit the official IECEx Certificate System.

Unlocking Global Markets with IEC 60079-46: The Standard for Equipment Assemblies

Navigating the complexities of explosive atmosphere (Ex) compliance for multi-component systems can be a significant challenge. While traditional standards focus on individual devices, IEC 60079-46 is the only international standard specifically designed to address the safety and certification of equipment assemblies.

Why Choose an IEC 60079-46 Approach for Your Assemblies?

• Bridging the Compliance Gap: It provides a coherent framework for assessing assemblies where individual components are already certified, but their interaction within a single system requires further evaluation.

• Structured Hazard Assessment: The standard mandates a rigorous Ignition Hazard Assessment, ensuring that the combination of parts—both certified and non-certified—does not introduce new risks.

• Global Harmonization: Aligning your design with IEC 60079-46 simplifies entry into international markets. It serves as a technical foundation recognized across major regional schemes, including ATEX (Europe), UKEX (UK), and UL/CSA (North America).

• Proven Compliance: By following a standardized methodology recognized by Notified Bodies worldwide, you ensure that your assemblies meet essential health and safety requirements, reducing the risk of costly redesigns.

Our expert consultants specialize in guiding you through the IEC 60079-46 assessment process, ensuring your complex assemblies meet the highest global safety standards.

IECEx vs. ATEX: A Comparative Overview for Global Applicability

When operating in potentially explosive atmospheres, two prominent certification systems often come into consideration: ATEX and IECEx. While both aim to ensure safety, they differ significantly in their scope, jurisdiction, and application.

ATEX (Atmosphères Explosibles)

ATEX (Atmosphères Explosibles) is a European directive, comprising two main directives: 2014/34/EU (for equipment) and 1999/92/EC (for worker safety). It serves to harmonize safety standards exclusively within the European Union (EU) and is mandatory for electrical and mechanical equipment used in potentially explosive atmospheres within EU member states. ATEX adopts a risk-based approach, which, for lower-risk areas like Zone 2 or Ex n equipment, permits a full manufacturer's declaration without requiring the involvement of an Ex Notified Body (ExNB).   

IECEx

In contrast, IECEx is an international certification system developed by the IEC with the explicit goal of harmonizing and simplifying the certification process for hazardous area equipment on a global scale. While generally voluntary in most regions, it provides a robust assurance of compliance with internationally recognized standards. Unlike ATEX's risk-based flexibility for lower-risk zones, IECEx mandates full compliance with IEC International Standards across all applications.   

The key distinctions between these two systems are critical for global operations:

Basis of Standards: IECEx certifications are based on the IEC 60079 series of standards, whereas ATEX relies on the EN 60079 series, which are European harmonized standards.   

Equipment Marking: Equipment certified under IECEx carries an IECEx scheme number, while ATEX certified products bear the CE marking along with specific ATEX details.   

Scope: IECEx encompasses equipment, service facilities, and personnel competence, offering a broader safety ecosystem. ATEX, on the other hand, focuses on equipment and workplace health and safety.   

Acceptance: IECEx is gaining increasing global acceptance, particularly prevalent in regions such as Asia-Pacific, Africa, and parts of the Middle East. ATEX is legally required within the EU and is recognized in trade with EU member states.

Certificate Database: A critical component underpinning IECEx's transparency and verification is its Internet On-Line Certificate System (OCS).  This centralized international database meticulously lists all IECEx certified Ex equipment, components, personnel, and facilities. ATEX does not have such a system, but it should be noted that attempts are being made to create commercial projects.

Jurisdiction: IECEx holds a global jurisdiction, aiming for worldwide applicability, while ATEX is specifically confined to the European Union.

Dual certification

The clear distinction between IECEx (global, voluntary) and ATEX (mandatory for the EU), combined with the explicit mention of dual certification as a common practice, highlights an important point: no single certification is universally sufficient for all markets. For global enterprises, understanding and effectively navigating the numerous hazardous area certification regimes, including IECEx, ATEX, NFPA, CSA, and other national systems, is not just an opportunity, but a strategic imperative. Dual certification is often the most prudent course of action, as it minimizes regulatory hurdles and maximizes market accessibility. This proactive approach to compliance also serves as a reliable risk management strategy. This highlights the inherent complexity of international trade in hazardous environment equipment and the related need for expert guidance capable of managing multi-faceted compliance projects, thereby ensuring a smooth transition of products to various regulatory frameworks. Multinational facilities require generally accepted certificates for customers, investors, insurers and government agencies. Modern security policy prioritizes international harmonization.

IECEx Quality Assurance (QA) System

It is necessary to use a reliable quality control system specifically designed for IECEx. This system must comply with the requirements of the ISO 9001 standard, which serves as the main quality control standard for IECEx certification, as well as meet the additional requirements set out in the ISO/IEC 80079-34 standard, IECEx OD 314-P. Such a system independently confirms the company's ability to consistently provide the expected level with appropriate competence.

IECEx Certified Equipment

IECEx Certified Equipment Scheme provides assurance that products listed on a IECEx Certificate of Conformity follow the International Standards listed on that IECEx Certificate.

This Scheme provides:

IECEx ExTR (Test Report)

IECEx QAR (Quality Assessment Report) 

IECEx CoC (Certifi cate of Conformity)

To obtain this type of IECEx Certifi cate, the product manufacturer prepares an application and submits it to the relevant IECEx ExCB. Samples of the equipment will be tested by a laboratory appointed by the ExCB. A factory inspection will also be organized to assess manufacturing capabilities to manufacture products identical to the product tested. Ongoing periodic audits (factory inspections) ensure that the stringent standards are being maintained by the manufacturer over time. You can find further information about the IECEx System and its Schemes, as well as rules, operational documents, procedures,  certificates and a list of the IECEx Certification Bodies on site IECEx.

IECEx Certified Service

IECEx Certified Service Facility Scheme assesses and certifi es that organizations and workshops that provide Ex equipment selection, design, installation, inspection, maintenance, repair, overhaul and reclamation services to the Ex industry do so respecting the strict requirements of IEC International Standards:

IEC 60079-14 Explosive atmospheres - Part 14: Electrical installations design, selection and erection

IEC 60079-17 Explosive atmospheres - Part 17: Electrical installations inspection and maintenance

IEC 60079-19 Explosive atmospheres - Part 19: Equipment repair, overhaul and reclamation

This ensures that unique Ex safety features are not compromised during the selection, design, installation, inspection, maintenance, repair, overhaul or reclamation processes.

The Scheme includes on-site audits prior to issuing the IECEx Certificate and ongoing periodic audits to ensure repair and overhaul processes continue to comply with requirements and provides:

IECEx FAR (Facility Assessment Report)

IECEx Certified Service Facility Certificate

IECEx Certificate of Personnel Competence

It is an internationally recognised scheme designed to assess a persons knowledge and skills for working in hazardous areas by way of written and practical assessment, with the outcome being an IECEx Certification of Personnel Competence for an individual.

The online certificate includes photo identification of the holder and the certificate can be viewed by anyone for verification on the IECEx website. 

The aim of an IECEx Certificate of Personnel Competence is to provide employers and organisations with confidence that personnel working in or around explosive atmospheres, or that can affect the safety of hazardous areas, hold the required competence to carry out their role correctly and safely.  It is like a passport of sorts for hazardous area workers who may operate across multiple countries and jurisdictions.

The IECEx CoPC scheme addresses the certification of personnel competence  involved  in  activities  through  twelve units  of competence:

Unit Ex 000 – Basic knowledge and awareness

Unit Ex 001 – Apply basic principles of protection in explosive atmospheres

Unit Ex 002 – Perform classification of hazardous areas

Unit Ex 003 – Install explosion-protected equipment and wiring systems

Unit Ex 004 – Maintain equipment in explosive atmospheres

Unit Ex 005 – Overhaul and repair of explosion-protected equipment

Unit Ex 006 – Test electrical installations in or associated with explosive atmospheres

Unit Ex 007 – Perform visual & close inspection of electrical installations in or associated with explosive atmospheres

Unit Ex 008 – Perform detailed inspection of electrical installations in or associated with explosive atmospheres

Unit Ex 009 – Design electrical installations in or associated with explosive atmospheres

Unit Ex 010 – Perform audit inspection of electrical installations in or associated with explosive atmospheres

Unit Ex 011 – Basic knowledge of the safety of hydrogen systems

Based on a modular competence structure taylor-made competence profiles can be certified which perfectly fit the actual obligation and tasks of the candidates in their jobs.

The IECEx scheme for certification of personnel competence provides independent verification that a person holding an IECEx CoPC has the ability to apply skills, knowledge, qualifications and experience to work safely in accordance with relevant international standards on explosive atmospheres. This can be especially important for contracted staff.

The CoPC scheme's emphasis that "Competence evolves with years and may deteriorate, so continued training and assessment is necessary" , coupled with the requirement for re-assessment every five years , indicates that certification is not a static achievement but an ongoing commitment. This requirement for continuous assessment and re-certification highlights a fundamental aspect of hazardous area safety: the dynamic nature of risk and the imperative for personnel skills to evolve in tandem with technological advancements, updated standards, and changing operational practices. This fosters a culture of lifelong learning and continuous improvement within industries dealing with explosive atmospheres, ultimately contributing to a higher overall safety standard globally.

IECEx Recognised Training Provider Program

The IECEx Recognised Training Provider Program (RTP) provides the international market with confidence that recognised organizations have implemented processes to manage and provide training services related to the selection, design, inspection, installation, maintenance, repair, overhaul and reclamation of equipment operating in explosive (Ex) atmospheres. An organization's designation as a Recognized Training Provider (RTP) signifies its commitment to provide appropriate training services on the basis that they have been verified in accordance with IECEx Operational Document OD 521. Training organizations interested in obtaining IECEx RTP status should consult the IECEx Operational Document.

Standards Operated by the IECEx

The IECEx System is based on the use of International Standards, such as IEC Standards and ISO Standards. These Standards are dedicated to the highly specialised fields associated with the use of equipment, termed Ex equipment, and installations in areas where a potential may exist of fire or explosion:

IEC 60079-0 Part 0: Equipment - General requirements

IEC 60079-1 Part 1: Equipment protection by flameproof enclosures 'd'

IEC 60079-2 Part 2: Equipment protection by pressurized enclosures 'p'

IEC 60079-5 Part 5: Equipment protection by powder filling 'q'

IEC 60079-6 Part 6: Equipment protection by oil immersion 'o'

IEC 60079-7 Part 7: Equipment protection by increased safety 'e'

IEC 60079-10-1 Part 10-1: Classification of areas - Explosive gas atmospheres

IEC 60079-10-2 Part 10-2: Classification of areas - Explosive dust atmospheres

IEC 60079-11 Part 11: Equipment protection by intrinsic safety 'i'

IEC 60079-13 Part 13: Equipment protection by pressurized room "p" and artificially ventilated room "v"

IEC 60079-14 Part 14: Electrical installations design, selection and erection

IEC 60079-15 Part 15: Equipment protection by type of protection 'n'

IEC 60079-16 Part 16: Artificial ventilation for the protection of analyser (s) houses

IEC 60079-17 Part 17: Electrical installations inspection and maintenance

IEC 60079-18 Part 18: Equipment protection by encapsulation “m”

IEC 60079-19 Part 19: Equipment repair, overhaul and reclamation

IEC 60079-25 Part 25: Intrinsically safe electrical systems

IEC 60079-26 Part 26: Equipment with equipment protection level (EPL) Ga

IEC 60079-28 Part 28: Protection of equipment and transmission systems using optical radiation

IEC 60079-29-1 Part 29-1: Gas detectors - Performance requirements of detectors for flammable gases

IEC 60079-29-2 Part 29-2: Gas detectors - Selection, installation, use and maintenance of detectors for flammable gas and oxygen

IEC 60079-29-4 Part 29-4: Gas detectors - Performance requirements of open path detectors for flammable gases

IEC 60079-30-1 Part 30-1: Electrical resistance trace heating - General and testing requirements

IEC/IEEE 60079-30-1 Part 30-1: Electrical resistance trace heating - General and testing requirements

IEC 60079-31 Part 31: Equipment dust ignition protection by enclosure 't'

**IEC/TS 60079-32-1 Edition 1.0 Explosive atmospheres - Part 32-1: Electrostatic Hazards - Guidance ** This TS may be used for testing purposes but not for issuing an IECEx Certificate of Conformity

**IEC 60079-32-2 Edition 2.0 Explosive atmospheres - Part 32-2: Electrostatics hazards – Tests ** This Standard may be used for testing purposes but not for issuing an IECEx Certificate of Conformity

IEC 60079-33 Part 33: Equipment protection by special protection 's'

IEC 60079-35-1 Part 35-1: Caplights for use in mines susceptible to firedamp - General requirements - Construction and testing in relation to the risk of explosion

IEC 60079-35-2 Part 35-2: Caplights for use in mines susceptible to firedamp - Performance

IEC TS 60079-39 Part 39: Intrinsically safe systems with electronically controlled spark duration limitation

IEC TS 60079-40 Part 40: Requirements for process sealing between flammable process fluids and electrical systems

**IEC TS 60079-42 Explosive atmospheres- Electrical safety devices for the control of potential ignition sources for Ex-Equipment. ** This TS may be used for testing purposes but not for issuing an IECEx Certificate of Conformity

IEC TS 60079-44 Explosive atmospheres - Part 44: Personal competence

IEC TS 60079-46 Explosive atmospheres - Part 46: Equipment assemblies

IEC TS 60079-47 Explosive atmospheres – Part 47: Equipment protection by 2-wire intrinsically safe Ethernet concept (2-WISE)

IEC TS 60079-48 Explosive atmospheres - Part 48 - Portable or Personal Electronic Equipment – Guide for the use of equipment without a certificate for use in Hazardous Areas

IEC 60079-101 ED1 Explosive atmosphere – Part 101: Principles of explosion protection

IEC 62784 Vacuum cleaners and dust extractors providing equipment protection level Dc for the collection of combustible dusts - Particular requirements

IEC 62990-1 Workplace atmospheres – Part 1: Gas detectors – Performance requirements of detectors for toxic gases

IECEx OD 290 IECEx Certified Equipment Scheme - Harmonized procedures for IECEx certification of equipment, components and systems associated with the production, dispensing and use of gaseous hydrogen

ISO/IEC 80079-34 Part 34: Application of quality systems for equipment manufacture

ISO/IEC 80079-49 Explosive atmospheres - Part 49: Flame arresters - Performance requirements, test methods and limits of use

ISO 19880-1 Gaseous hydrogen - Fuelling stations Part 1 General requirements

ISO 19880-3 Gaseous hydrogen Fuelling stations Part 3: Valves

ISO 19880-5 Gaseous hydrogen Fuelling stations Part 5: Dispenser hoses and hose assemblies

ISO 80079-36 Part 36: Non-electrical equipment for explosive atmospheres - Basic method and requirements

ISO 80079-37 Part 37: Non-electrical equipment for explosive atmospheres - Non electrical type of protection constructional safety "c", control of ignition source "b", liquid immersion "k"

ISO/TR 15916 Basic considerations for the safety of hydrogen systems

ISO 17268 Gaseous hydrogen land vehicle refuelling connection devices

ad-hoc Group IEC TC 31 ahG 61 “Robotics (including drones)”

The ad-hoc Group IEC TC 31 ahG 61 “Robotics (including drones)” was created in 2024 to examine the requirements in existing standards and propose additional or different requirements to address the unique requirements for this type of equipment in or above hazardous areas. The ahG to also consider separate guidance on the use of robotic equipment (including drones) in hazardous areas under safe work procedures. The ahG takes into account the work of ISO/TC 299 and ISO TC 20/SC 16.

IEC SC 61J work related to the robot safety standard (draft: IEC 60335-2-123 ED1 "Household and similar electrical appliances - Safety - Part 2-123: Particular requirements for robots"). The standard outlines the specific safety requirements that robots designed for household or similar use must meet to be considered safe. This includes aspects like mechanical hazards, electrical safety, and protection against hazards arising from the robot's intended use. 

National guidance documents

The IECEx system is the main international organization for explosion protection. But at the national level, within each country, regulation in the field of explosion protection is carried out on the basis of national guidelines, such as the National Building Code for Explosion Protection or the Code for Electrical Installations in Hazardous Areas, as well as various safety regulations for different industries. National guidelines are developed by national technical regulation systems.

National technical regulation systems take into account national technological, climatic, historical and cultural characteristics, as well as national traditions and mentality.

The development of national technical regulation systems is important to ensure safety and reduce the risk of explosive hazards incidents.

The creation of national technical regulation systems can determine the legislation of countries in relation to:

Handling of flammable and explosive materials, gases and liquids;

Construction of facilities where explosive atmospheres will be present;

Classification of fire and explosion hazardous areas;

Design and selection of explosion-proof equipment and electrical installations;

Certification of equipment and services;

Installation, maintenance and repair of equipment;

Training and competence of personnel;

Occupational health and safety in hazardous areas;

Supervision of compliance with national requirements, etc.

The lack of national technical regulation systems can lead to accidents at facilities where explosive hazards are present and endanger human life. And non-compliance with national guidance documents can lead to heavy fines and legal consequences.

Establishing National Explosion Protection Technical Regulation Systems requires a high level of knowledge and considerable experience with international explosion protection technical regulation systems and the national explosion protection regulations of other countries, in order to take into account all national specificities while complying with international legislation.

Examples of National Technical Regulation Systems in different countries include:

USA:

ANSI (American National Standards Institute);

ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials);

AGMA (American Gear Manufacturers Association);

API (American Petroleum Institute);

ASCE (American Society of Civil Engineers);

ASQ (The American Society for Quality);

ASME (American Society Of Mechanical Engineers);

ASSE (American Society of Safety Engineers);

NFPA (National Fire Protection Association);

NEMA (National Electrical Manufacturers Association);

NIST (The National Institute for Standards and Technology), (previous name NBS);

USCG (US Coast Guard);

BSEE (Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement).

Canada:

SCC (Standards Council of Canada).

France:

AFNOR (Association Francaise de Normalisation).

Great Britain:

BSI (British Standards Institute).

Germany:

DIN (Deutsches Institut fur Normung e.v.).

Япония:

JIS (Japanese Industrial Standards Committee).

Austria:

ONORM (Austrian Standards Institute).

Australia and New Zealand:

JASANZ (Joint Accreditation System of Australia and New Zealand).

China:

NEPSI (National Supervision and Inspection Center for Explosion Protection and Safety of Instrumentation);

CQST (China National Quality Supervision and Test Center for Explosion Protected Electrical Products).

Supervision & Test Center of Ex-products of China Petroleum & Chemical Industry

Korea:

KOSHA (The Korean Occupational Safety and Health Agency);

KERI (Korea Electro-technology Research Institute).

Brazil:

INMETRO (National Institute of Metrology, Standardization, and Industrial Quality).

Eurasian Customs Union (Russia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Armenia, and Kyrgyzstan):

ТР ТС 012/2011 (EAC).

India:

BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards).

In some countries, national technical regulation in the field of explosion protection is not a separate field but is carried out by the state technical supervision, and in some countries explosion protection regulation is part of the fire department. 

The IECEx system may be the main regulation for explosion protection, but all aspects are usually reflected in other national guidance documents.

Despite its global ambition and UN endorsement as a "world's best practice," IECEx does not universally override national regulations. The analysis reveals a persistent "global-local paradox," where national legal frameworks, such as the ATEX Directives in Europe and the Class/Division system in North America, often impose additional, mandatory requirements or national deviations. While IECEx certification serves as a powerful "fast-track" mechanism, allowing the mutual acceptance of underlying test data, manufacturers and end-users must navigate these country-specific nuances. This necessitates a comprehensive understanding of both the international baseline provided by IECEx and the specific top-up requirements of target markets.

The ongoing evolution of explosion protection will likely see continued harmonization driven by IECEx, particularly as new technologies like IoT, AI, and advanced battery systems are integrated into hazardous area equipment. However, the entrenched nature of legacy national systems and distinct regulatory priorities will ensure that national guidance documents remain critical components of global compliance strategies. For manufacturers, a strategic approach involves prioritizing IECEx certification as the foundational step for global market entry, followed by targeted compliance with national deviations and specific local certifications where mandatory. For regulators, the IECEx system offers an invaluable model for enhancing domestic safety standards and reducing trade barriers, fostering a safer and more efficient global industrial landscape.

Standards Operated by the IECQ

The IECQ system for assessing the carbon footprint, hydrogen and supply chain of nuclear energy is based on the use of international standards such as ISO standards:

ISO 14067:2018 Greenhouse gases — Carbon footprint of products — Requirements and guidelines for quantification

ISO/TS 19870:2023 Hydrogen technologies — Methodology for determining the greenhouse gas emissions associated with the production, conditioning and transport of hydrogen to consumption gate

ISO/DIS 19870-1 Hydrogen technologies — Methodology for determining the greenhouse gas emissions associated with the hydrogen supply chain Part 1: Emissions associated with the production of hydrogen to production gate

ISO/AWI 19870-2 Hydrogen technologies — Methodology for determining the greenhouse gas emissions Part 2: Emissions associated with the conditioning and transport of liquid hydrogen up to consumption gate

ISO/AWI 19870-3 Hydrogen Technologies — Methodology for Determining the Greenhouse Gas Emissions Associated with the Hydrogen Supply Chain Part 3: Part 3: Emissions Associated with the Production and Transport of Ammonia up to Delivery Gate and the Conversion of Ammonia into Hydrogen and its Transport to Consumption Gate

ISO/AWI 19870-4 Hydrogen technologies — Methodology for determining the greenhouse gas emissions Part 4: Methodology for determining the greenhouse gas emissions — Part 4: Emissions associated with the bi-directional conditioning of hydrogen into LOHC and back, and transport of LOHC and hydrogen up to consumption gate

ISO/TR 15916:2015 Basic considerations for the safety of hydrogen systems

ISO 19443:2018 Quality management systems — Specific requirements for the application of ISO 9001:2015 by organizations in the supply chain of the nuclear energy sector supplying products and services important to nuclear safety (ITNS)

ISO 19443:2018/Amd 1:2024 Quality management systems — Specific requirements for the application of ISO 9001:2015 by organizations in the supply chain of the nuclear energy sector supplying products and services important to nuclear safety (ITNS) Amendment 1: Climate action changes

Consulting HydITEx

Assistance in the establishment of National IECEx Certification and Training Centers

HydITEx offers an important long-term strategic service: assistance in the establishment of national certification and training centers for IECEx activities.  This macro-level consulting service assumes that HydITEx is targeted at government agencies or large national industrial consortia. HydITEx's offering differs from micro-level certification services for a single product or equipment, demonstrating a broader strategic approach. By helping countries develop their own IECEx infrastructure, HydITEx positions itself as a partner in building national capacities in the field of safety in hazardous areas and hydrogen energy. The high level of knowledge allows HydITEx to carry out comprehensive legislative navigation and bring national standards in line with international ones. 

HydITEx professional consultants have the necessary knowledge and practical experience to help organize IECEx membership and further membership. Our specialists provide assistance at every stage. Starting with establishing communication with national government authorities in order to clarify their policies regarding membership in IECEx, support of the necessary legislative process and other regulatory legal acts. Assistance in the development and correction of national documents that comply with the best international practices in the field of safety in hazardous areas. We have unique knowledge of regulatory aspects and cultural peculiarities, which helps to avoid possible mistakes when promoting and lobbying interests in an international organization, as well as to build strong business relationships.

HydITEx provides assistance and possible co-financing in the establishment of a national certification and training center in the field of IECEx activities. This involves a multi-pronged approach, including determining the appropriate scope of accreditation for such centers, directing the selection of qualified personnel, overseeing the design and equipping of testing laboratories, as well as conducting specialized training for laboratory personnel and assists in the development of test methods. HydITEx will take over the full organization of the educational process, including equipping the training center with specialized training stands and materials for practical classes.

Roadmap

• Regulatory Gap Analysis: Assessment of current national explosion protection legislation and development of a roadmap for the transition to IECEx standards.

• Legislative Drafting Support: Assistance in adapting the UNECE Model into national legal frameworks.

• Capacity Building & Training: Training of local inspectors, auditors and technical specialists.

• Infrastructure Development: Consulting on the establishment of national certification bodies (ExCB) and testing laboratories (ExTL) recognized by IECEx.

HydITEx has a team of highly qualified who will help you gain the necessary competence to fully organize work in the International Electrotechnical Commission (IECEx, IECQ for carbon footprint, hydrogen and nuclear supply chain) system.