Among the main technical changes that were incorporated in this new Edition 5.0 (published in 2025) of the IEC 60079-18 Standard in relation to the previous Edition 4.0 (published in 2014), the following can be highlighted:

• The specification of “m” compounds has been expanded for clarification purposes

• Curing conditions for “m” compounds have been added

• The dielectric strength test according to ANSI/UL 746A has been added as an alternative.

• For protection level “mc”, the types of faults need to be considered in relation to the separation distances

• Another possibility has been added for the manufacture of insulation components for transformers with EPL “eb”, according to the IEC 60079-7 Standard

• Clarification included that the component rating cannot be exceeded for sparking contacts for EPL protection level “ma”

• Consideration of fault conditions has been added for sparking contacts

IEC 60079-101 ED1, titled "Explosive atmospheres - Part 101: Principles of explosion protection", provides a foundation for understanding explosion protection principles, including how to identify and assess hazardous situations that could lead to explosions and the methods to prevent or mitigate them. It focuses on the basic concepts and methodology for explosion prevention and protection in various environments. 

Key aspects covered in IEC 60079-101 ED1:

• Identification and Assessment of Hazardous Situations: The standard outlines methods for identifying potential sources of flammable substances and assessing the likelihood of an explosive atmosphere forming. 

• Explosion Prevention and Protection Principles: It details various techniques and measures for preventing explosions, such as controlling ignition sources, limiting the release of flammable substances, and using appropriate protection methods for equipment. 

In essence, IEC 60079-101 ED1 provides a framework for understanding the fundamental principles and methodologies needed to ensure safety in environments where explosive atmospheres may occur. 

In 2023, IEC TC 31 Equipment for explosive atmospheres carried out work on updating and publishing the following international standards:

• EC 60079-11:2023 Part 11: Equipment protection by intrinsic safety «i»– Edition 7.0,

• EC 60079-25:2020 Part 25: Intrinsically safe electrical systems – Edition 3.0,

• IEC TS 60079-44:2023 Part 44: Personal competence – Edition 1.0,

• IEC TS 60079-48:2023 Part 48: Portable or Personal Electronic Equipment – Guide for the use of equipment without a certificate for use in Hazardous Areas – Edition 1.0.

Also, the following international technical standards are in the final process (CDV or FDIS) of preparing or updating IEC TC 31:

• IEC 60079-2:2014 Part 2: Equipment protection by pressurized enclosure «p» – Edition 7.0 (Stage ACDV),

• IEC 60079-7:2015+AMD1:2017 (CSV Consolidated version) Part 7: Equipment protection by increased safety «e» – Edition 6.0 (Stage CCDV),

• IEC 60079-14:2013 Part 14: Electrical installations design, selection and erection – Edition 6.0 (Stage AFDIS),

• IEC 60079-17:2023 RLV Part 17: Electrical installations inspection and maintenance – Edition 6.0 (Redline version),

• ISO/IEC 80079-49 Part 49: Flame arresters – Performance requirements, test methods and limits for use – Edition 1.0 (Stage FDIS).