IECEx
How it works
IECEx operates through a network of scheme-accepted certification bodies (ExCBs — Ex Certification Bodies) and testing laboratories (ExTLs — Ex Testing Laboratories). A manufacturer submits a product to an ExCB; an accepted ExTL carries out testing to the IEC 60079 series standards, documented in a Test Report (ExTR), and the manufacturer's quality system is assessed in a Quality Assessment Report (QAR). On this basis the ExCB issues a publicly available Certificate of Conformity (CoC), published in the "IECEx On-Line Certificate of Conformity" database. The IEC 60079 series defines explosion-protection types such as Ex d (flameproof enclosure), Ex e (increased safety), Ex i (intrinsic safety) and Ex p (pressurization). The system comprises several programmes: Certified Equipment, Certified Service Facilities (repair and overhaul), Certified Personnel Competence (CoPC — Certificate of Personnel Competence), and the IECEx Conformity Mark Licensing System. Through mutual acceptance of ExTRs and QARs among scheme members, a single set of tests leads to a certificate accepted across many jurisdictions.
Problem solved
Before IECEx, manufacturers of equipment for explosive atmospheres had to undergo separate certification in each country, under local rules and bodies, which raised costs and delayed market access internationally. IECEx solves this by establishing a single global scheme based on the common IEC 60079 standards plus mutual acceptance of test reports and quality assessments, so that a single set of tests can support certification recognised across many countries.
Components
The programme issuing a Certificate of Conformity (CoC) for Ex equipment based on testing to the IEC 60079 series (ExTR) and a quality system assessment (QAR).
Certification of facilities performing repair and overhaul of Ex equipment to the relevant standards (e.g. IEC 60079-19), ensuring the protection level is maintained after servicing.
The programme certifying the competence of persons who design, install, maintain and inspect installations in explosive atmospheres.
Allows manufacturers to apply the IECEx Conformity Mark to products covered by a valid certificate, as a visible indication of certification under the scheme.
Scheme-accepted bodies that carry out assessment and testing and issue ExTRs, QARs and certificates; the basis of mutual acceptance of results across countries.