ATEX risk: how to protect yourself in an explosive atmosphere?

ATEX standards and regulations

As mentioned previously, the term ATEX is a risk related to the work environment. This expression does not derive from a standard and does not concern PPE. Furthermore, there is a specific standard to guarantee that work clothing can be worn in an ATEX zone. This is why it is quite common to find the term "ATEX clothing", but also the ATEX logo on protective clothing to guarantee that they are suitable for these environments.

This is none other than EN 1149 standard, which concerns antistatic work clothing. It is mandatory in an ATEX environment, as it helps prevent the occurrence of breakdown sparks from electrostatic charges.

The work environment of an ATEX zone does not only present explosion risks. We can notably find on many garments or PPE the EN 14116 standard (flame protection during brief contact) or the EN 11612 standard (protection against heat and flames) which protect against thermal risk in case of explosion.

ATEX standard clothing are generally multi-risk garments and other standards may be required to work safely:

• EN 20471, high visibility work clothing

• EN 13034, chemical protective clothing

• EN 14404, work clothing with knee protection

• EN 1146, electrostatic charge protection

• EN ISO 20345, safety shoes with antistatic protection

As you have understood, ATEX clothing can meet numerous standards to protect you. They can be combined to offer suitable ATEX equipment tailored according to the work environment.