What Are ATEX Areas? Understanding Hazardous Zones and Safe Motor Solutions

Updated: October 13, 2025

ATEX areas are specific zones within industrial environments where explosive atmospheres may occur due to the presence of flammable gases, vapors, or dust. In these high-risk locations, understanding how ATEX areas and zones are classified is crucial for preventing accidents and ensuring compliance. The European Union’s ATEX Directives define these classifications to protect both workers and equipment operating in hazardous conditions.

By identifying the correct ATEX area and selecting ATEX-compliant industrial motors, such as Atlas Copco’s ATEX air motors, companies can achieve superior safety, reliability, and regulatory compliance in explosive environments.

What Is ATEX?

ATEX comes from the French phrase “Atmosphères Explosibles.” It refers to a set of EU directives designed to regulate equipment and protective systems used in potentially explosive atmospheres.

The two primary ATEX Directives are:

  • Directive 2014/34/EU – for manufacturers of equipment used in explosive atmospheres

  • Directive 1999/92/EC – for workplace safety in explosive environments

ATEX ensures that any equipment used in these conditions — from sensors and pumps to industrial motors — is designed to prevent ignition sources and operate safely under hazardous conditions.

Why Are ATEX Areas Important?

ATEX areas are critical to safety management in industries such as oil and gas, chemical processing, pharmaceuticals, food production, and mining.
By properly classifying zones and using ATEX-certified motors and tools, companies can:

  • Prevent explosions and fire incidents

  • Protect workers and assets

  • Ensure compliance with EU safety laws

  • Minimize downtime caused by unsafe operations

Classification of ATEX Areas

ATEX divides hazardous locations into zones depending on the type of material (gas or dust) and the frequency of explosive atmospheres.

🔹 Gas Zones

ZoneDefinitionExample
Zone 0Explosive gas atmosphere present continuously or for long periodsInside fuel tanks, solvent containers
Zone 1Explosive gas atmosphere likely to occur intermittently during normal operationAround pumps, valves, or mixing equipment
Zone 2Explosive gas atmosphere unlikely, but may occur for a short periodVentilation systems or maintenance areas

🔹 Dust Zones

ZoneDefinitionExample
Zone 20Explosive dust atmosphere present continuously or for long periodsInside grain silos or powder mixers
Zone 21Explosive dust atmosphere likely to occur intermittentlyNear conveyors or packaging lines
Zone 22Explosive dust atmosphere unlikely, but possible brieflyStorage areas or cleaning systems

Each zone dictates the type of ATEX-certified equipment — including air motors — that can be safely installed.

ATEX-Compliant Equipment for Industrial Applications

To operate safely in ATEX areas, equipment must be designed and certified for its specific zone.
Atlas Copco’s ATEX-certified air motors are engineered to deliver reliable performance in hazardous environments while preventing ignition risks.

⚙️ Key Features of Atlas Copco ATEX Air Motors

  • Spark-free operation — suitable for gas and dust atmospheres

  • Robust construction — resists corrosion, pressure, and heat

  • Intrinsic safety — limits energy to prevent ignition in case of fault

  • Compact, lightweight design — ideal for confined industrial spaces

  • Zone-certified models — compliant for Zone 1, Zone 2, Zone 21, and Zone 22 applications

These motors are commonly used in:

  • Mixers and agitators in chemical or pharmaceutical plants

  • Conveyors and feeders in food production

  • Valve actuators in oil and gas facilities

  • Drum handling and packaging systems

Ensuring Compliance With ATEX Regulations

For businesses operating in or near ATEX zones, the following steps are essential:

  1. Identify Hazardous Areas
    Conduct a thorough risk assessment to determine which ATEX zones exist within the facility.

  2. Select Appropriate Equipment
    Choose Atlas Copco ATEX-certified motors and tools approved for the specific zone classification.

  3. Install and Maintain Equipment Properly
    Follow manufacturer guidelines and schedule regular inspections and maintenance.

  4. Train Employees
    Educate staff on ATEX safety, equipment handling, and emergency response procedures.

  5. Document Compliance
    Maintain detailed logs of assessments, certifications, and maintenance records for audit readiness.

By following these steps, businesses not only ensure compliance but also enhance workplace safety and productivity.

Why Choose Atlas Copco Industrial Motors for ATEX Areas

Atlas Copco’s Industrial Air Motors are engineered to perform reliably where electric motors pose ignition risks.
Their ATEX-certified range combines safety, performance, and energy efficiency — ideal for industries requiring explosion-proof motor solutions.

Advantages of Atlas Copco ATEX Motors:

  • Certified for multiple ATEX zones

  • Maintenance-free operation with minimal lubrication

  • High torque-to-weight ratio

  • Long service life even in demanding conditions

  • Global support and service network

What Are ATEX Areas FAQ

Conclusion

Understanding ATEX areas and zone classifications is vital for maintaining safety in industries where explosive atmospheres can occur.
By using Atlas Copco ATEX-certified industrial motors, businesses can ensure compliance with EU regulations while improving operational efficiency and worker safety.

Looking for the right ATEX motor for your application?
Explore the different types of air motors and choose the right product for your needs, or contact us for more information.