HazLoc Certification Guide: ATEX, IECEx, and NEC Standards | Resume Excellence Pro

HazLoc Certification Guide: ATEX, IECEx, and NEC Standards

June 11, 2025 By Resume Excellence Professional Team

Operating safely in hazardous locations requires both technical expertise and proper certification under recognized international schemes. This definitive guide compares the three principal hazardous location (HazLoc) certification systems—ATEX (Europe), IECEx (global), and NEC (USA)—providing detailed analysis of their scopes, certification pathways, training requirements, costs, and implementation strategies for global compliance.

Understanding Hazardous Location Classifications

Before exploring certification schemes, it's crucial to understand how hazardous areas are classified:

1

Zone Classification (IEC/ATEX)

  • Zone 0/20: Continuous hazard
  • Zone 1/21: Intermittent hazard
  • Zone 2/22: Rare hazard
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2

Division Classification (NEC)

  • Division 1: Hazard present during normal operation
  • Division 2: Hazard only during abnormal conditions
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3

Gas Groups & Temperature Classes

  • IIA, IIB, IIC (gas)
  • T1-T6 (max surface temp)

1. ATEX Certification (European Union)

The ATEX Directive (2014/34/EU) governs equipment and protective systems intended for use in potentially explosive atmospheres across the European Economic Area.

Key Features:

  • Mandatory: For all equipment sold in EU hazardous locations
  • Scope: Covers electrical and mechanical equipment
  • Marking: Ex symbol with Notified Body number
1

Equipment Categorization

Determine equipment category (1, 2, or 3) based on zone

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2

Technical Documentation

Prepare technical file including risk assessment

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3

Notified Body Assessment

For Category 1 & 2 equipment (optional for Cat 3)

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4

EU Declaration of Conformity

Manufacturer declares compliance

ATEX Certification Costs

Component Typical Cost Duration
Equipment Testing €3,000–€6,000 4-8 weeks
Technical File Review €1,500–€3,000 2-4 weeks
Personnel Training €400–€800 1-2 days

2. IECEx Certification (International)

The IECEx System provides international certification for equipment and personnel competence in explosive atmospheres.

Key Advantages:

  • Global Recognition: Accepted in 40+ countries
  • Two Schemes: Equipment (ExCB) and Personnel (CoPC)
  • Unified Standards: Based on IEC 60079 series
1

Choose Certification Type

Equipment or Personnel (CoPC)

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2

Submit Application

To IECEx Certified Body (ExCB)

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3

Assessment Phase

Testing for equipment, exams for personnel

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4

Certification Issued

Listed in IECEx Online Certificate System

IECEx CoPC Requirements

  • Minimum 3 years relevant experience
  • Pass written examination (75% minimum)
  • Practical assessment for some units
  • Recertification every 5 years

3. NEC Compliance (United States)

The National Electrical Code (NFPA 70) Articles 500-517 define requirements for hazardous locations in the United States.

Key Differences:

  • Division System: Class I/II/III, Division 1/2
  • NRTL Approval: UL, CSA, or other NRTL certification required
  • Installation Focus: Emphasizes proper installation methods

ATEX vs IECEx vs NEC Comparison

Feature ATEX IECEx NEC
Governing Standard 2014/34/EU IEC 60079 NFPA 70
Certification Bodies Notified Bodies ExCBs NRTLs
Personnel Certification Training only CoPC program Training + CEUs
Equipment Marking Ex + NB number Ex + ExCB ID UL/C-UL mark
Typical Certification Cost €3,000-€6,000 €4,000-€8,000 $5,000-$10,000

Implementation Strategy

Choosing the right certification path depends on your target markets and operational needs:

1. Market Analysis

Identify all countries where equipment will be installed or operated

2. Gap Assessment

Compare existing certifications with target market requirements

3. Certification Plan

Develop phased approach based on priority markets

4. Personnel Training

Ensure staff have appropriate competence certifications

Frequently Asked Questions

Can IECEx replace ATEX certification in Europe?

No, IECEx is not a legal replacement for ATEX in the EU. However, IECEx certification can significantly simplify the ATEX certification process through mutual recognition of test results.

How often does HazLoc certification need renewal?

Equipment certifications typically don't expire but require updates if standards change. IECEx CoPC requires renewal every 5 years. Personnel training should be refreshed every 2-3 years.

Is NEC certification accepted outside the US?

NEC compliance is primarily for the US market. Some countries may accept NRTL certification (like UL) as part of their approval process, but additional local certification is often required.