A Guide to ATEX, IECEx, and CID2 Certifications for Industrial Computing in Hazardous Area

Industrial computing devices such as rugged tablets, panel PCs, and industrial displays are widely used in hazardous environments across the oil and gas, petrochemical, and chemical processing industries. These devices support critical functions such as data monitoring, process control, and field diagnostics in challenging conditions

In these high-risk environments, electronic equipment must meet strict safety standards to minimize the risk of ignition. For this reason, all computing devices deployed in hazardous areas must comply with international certification systems such as ATEX, IECEx or Class/Division system. These certifications confirm that the equipment is safe for use in classified zones and will not act as an ignition source under either normal or abnormal conditions.

To ensure compliance and maintain safety in these hazardous zones, different regions have established specific certification systems that define equipment requirements based on the type and likelihood of explosive atmospheres. The three most recognized standards are ATEX, used across the European Union, IECEx, adopted internationally and the Class/Division system, which is primarily used in North America. Each system has its own classification structure, testing methods, and area definitions.

What is ATEX Certification?

ATEX (ATmosphères EXplosibles) is a regulatory framework enforced across the European Union. It applies to equipment and protective systems intended for use in environments where there is a risk of explosion due to flammable gases, vapors, mists, or combustible dust.

ATEX certification confirms that a product has been tested and deemed safe for use in hazardous areas, based on the specific zone classifications it is certified for. These certifications are issued in accordance with the ATEX Directive, which outlines the Essential Health and Safety Requirements (EHSR) that manufacturers must meet.

While it's not mandatory for manufacturers to follow a specific technical standard, compliance with harmonized EN standards is the most common method to demonstrate adherence to the directive.

ATEX aims to enable the free movement of goods within the EU internal market while ensuring a high level of safety for workers operating in potentially explosive atmospheres.

To reduce ignition risk, devices must address three key elements:

Devices that meet ATEX requirements are marked with the distinctive “Ex” symbol, indicating that they are approved for use in classified hazardous zones.

What is IECEx Certification?

IECEx stands for the International Electrotechnical Commission System for Certification to Standards Relating to Equipment for Use in Explosive Atmospheres. It is a globally recognized certification framework that ensures electrical and electronic equipment can be safely used in environments with a risk of explosion due to flammable gases, vapors, or dust.

Unlike ATEX, which is a legal requirement within the European Union, IECEx is a voluntary certification system designed to promote international trade by providing a consistent, standardized approach to equipment safety in hazardous locations. It is widely accepted by regulatory bodies and industries in countries across Europe, North America, Asia, and the Middle East, making it one of the most trusted international certifications for hazardous area equipment.

IECEx certification confirms that a product complies with relevant IEC safety standards and has undergone standardized testing and quality assessments. The certification process typically includes:

1. A Test Report (ExTR) to verify compliance with technical standards
2. A Quality Assessment Report (QAR) to ensure consistent manufacturing practices
3. A Certificate of Conformity (CoC) issued by an accredited IECEx Certification Body (ExCB)

When a product is marked as IECEx certified, it means it has been evaluated to meet strict international safety requirements and is suitable for use in specific explosive atmospheres. This level of compliance helps simplify cross-border equipment approval, reduces duplicate testing, and ensures safety across diverse hazardous environments globally.

Combining ATEX and IECEx Certifications

• When IEC standards are used, a single set of tests and assessments can be applied to meet both IECEx and ATEX requirements, following the rules specific to each system.
• An ATEX EC-Type Examination Certificate can be based on an existing IECEx Test Report (ExTR).
• However, ATEX documentation alone is not accepted for obtaining IECEx certification.
• Quality audits follow the same process in both systems, ensuring consistent and reliable manufacturing practices.

What is Class/Divison System?

The Class/Division system is a regulatory framework used primarily in North America to classify hazardous locations where there is a risk of fire or explosion due to the presence of flammable substances. It is defined and enforced by bodies such as the National Electrical Code (NEC), Canadian Electrical Code (CEC), Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

This system helps guide the design, testing, and certification of electrical equipment to ensure it can operate safely in potentially explosive environments. Equipment for these areas must undergo testing and certification by recognized laboratories to ensure compliance. Once certified, the equipment receives a conformity certificate indicating compliance with safety standards, allowing it to be manufactured and deployed in hazardous areas.

Introduction to Winmate’s ATEX and CID2 Product Line

To meet the strict safety and performance demands of hazardous environments, Winmate offers a full range of industrial computing solutions certified for ATEX Zone 2, IECEx and Class I Division 2 (CID2). These products are specifically designed for use in oil and gas fields, petrochemical plants, chemical processing sites, and other areas where explosive atmospheres may occur.

ATEX-Certified Product Line Overview

1. ATEX Rugged Tablet: Built for mobile productivity in hazardous zones, with ATEX Zone 2, IECEx and CID2 certification, it enhances operational safety and supports continuous field performance.
2. ATEX Panel PCs: Fanless, sealed designs ideal for fixed installations, Winmate ATEX Panel PCs deliver safe, efficient performance in hazardous industrial environments.
3. ATEX Displays: Reliable visual interfaces with explosion-proof
design, Winmate ATEX Displays ensure clear, durable operation in classified zones.

Selecting the right certified equipment is essential for ensuring safety, maintaining operational continuity, and meeting regulatory requirements in hazardous environments. Devices deployed in explosive atmospheres must do more than withstand harsh conditions, they must be independently tested and certified to prevent ignition risks under both normal and abnormal circumstances.

Winmate is committed to supporting industrial operations with a full line of ATEX Zone 2, IECEx, and CID2 certified rugged tablets, panel PCs, and displays. Each product is designed with a focus on safety, reliability, and usability in critical settings such as oil and gas, chemical processing, and petrochemical industries.

For more information about Winmate’s ATEX or CID2 Solutions, please visit our website or contact Winmate.