What is an ATEX zone?
An ATEX zone (Explosive Atmospheres) refers to a location where flammable gases, vapors, mists, or dusts can create an explosive atmosphere. This European regulatory classification, derived from ATEX Directives 99/92/EC and 2014/34/EU, imposes strict protection measures to prevent explosion risks and protect exposed workers.
ATEX zones are divided into six categories according to the nature of the risk and its frequency. For flammable gases and vapors, there is zone 0 (permanent or prolonged presence of an explosive atmosphere), zone 1 (occasional presence under normal operation), and zone 2 (accidental and short-term presence). For combustible dusts, the equivalent classifications are zones 20, 21, and 22. This gradation determines the level of protection required for each PPE ATEX zone.
In the petrochemical, gas, pharmaceutical, and agri-food industries (silos, flour mills), as well as in waste treatment or industrial painting, ATEX zones are omnipresent. Correctly identifying and classifying these areas is the first mandatory step before any choice ofATEX PPE. The Document Relating to Explosion Protection (DRPCE), mandatory in every concerned company, precisely maps these areas and defines the necessary personal protective equipment, including the aTEX workwear.
Regulations require that all equipment, including the aTEX clothing, used in explosive areas must be specifically designed and certified not to constitute a source of ignition. Electrostatic discharges generated by friction from regular clothing represent one of the main ignition risks. This is why wearing ATEX standard workwear Certified becomes a legal requirement as soon as the risk assessment identifies an ATEX zone in your company.
Why equip your employees with ATEX PPE?
Equip your teams with ATEX PPE First meets a legal obligation. The Labor Code requires the employer to provide free of charge aTEX workwear Certified compliant with EN 1149-5 (antistatic) and EN ISO 11612 (flame protection) standards.
Beyond regulatory compliance, the aTEX clothing constitute the last barrier of protection against explosions. Their antistatic properties prevent ignition sparks, while the flame-retardant materials limit burns in the event of an incident. A multi-risk clothing Certified can make the difference between a minor accident and a human tragedy.
Properly equip your employees with aTEX workwear Also preserves your image as a responsible employer, enhances attractiveness in recruitment, and meets the increasing demands of your clients during customer audits. The compliance of your PPE ATEX zone Thus becomes a human, legal, and commercial issue.
How to ensure the comfort and acceptance of ATEX PPE by your teams?
Acceptance of ATEX PPE By your teams is based on three essential pillars: physical comfort, user involvement, and risk awareness.
The new generations of aTEX workwear Developed by Cepovett Safety incorporate technical breathable fabrics that wick away perspiration while maintaining their protective properties. The ergonomic cuts with ease gussets, preformed knees, and adjustable waist allow freedom of movement comparable to a standard garment. The modern design with contemporary colors enhances the professional image of your employees.
The winning strategy is to involve end users in the selection process. Offer trials of several models ofATEX clothing In real conditions for 1 to 2 weeks. This participatory process transforms an imposed decision into a collective choice and drastically improves the wearing rate.
Support this approach with training sessions that concretely explain the ATEX hazards and the protection mechanisms of the aTEX workwear blue. An employee who understands why they wear their PPE ATEX zone Adopts it naturally.
ATEX clothing suitable for every profession and every body type
To meet the diversity of work situations in ATEX zones, Cepovett Safety has developed a complete range covering all protection needs. You will find ATEX work overalls In version pantalon multirisques And blouson multirisques Separated for maximum modularity, of combinaisons ATEX A suit for procedures requiring full protection, parkas ATEX To face winter conditions, and lighter clothing (tee-shirts multirisques, chemises multirisques, blouses ATEX) for indoor work or in hot weather. The gilets ATEX Allow you to add an insulating layer while maintaining antistatic compliance. This diversity of shapes is accompanied by total inclusivity: each aTEX standard workwear Is available from XS to 5XL, because safety should never be compromised by sizing issues. The choice of several colors makes it easier to identify functions or comply with your company's color codes, while maintaining the essential ATEX certifications.
