ATEX

ATEX is the designation used for European regulations and directives governing equipment and workplaces in explosive atmospheres. The term is derived from the French phrase ATmosphères EXplosibles.

Where is ATEX relevant?

ATEX requirements apply wherever flammable gases, vapors, mists, or dust can create an explosive atmosphere, including:

• Oil & Gas facilities – refineries, tank farms, and offshore platforms.
• Petrochemical & Chemical plants – production, storage, and transfer areas.
• Marine & Offshore applications – vessels, FPSOs, and offshore wind installations.
• Energy & Industrial facilities – biomass plants, gas installations, and other process facilities.

For you as an asset owner, safety officer, or contractor, ATEX certification ensures that blasting and surface preparation activities can be carried out without creating sparks, dust explosions, or unnecessary downtime risks.

Extra explanation

The European ATEX framework classifies hazardous gas areas as:

• Zone 0 – explosive atmosphere present continuously.
• Zone 1 – explosive atmosphere likely to occur during normal operations.
• Zone 2 – explosive atmosphere only occurs under abnormal conditions or infrequently.

Pinovo’s vacuum blasting equipment is certified for ATEX Zone 1. This means you can safely remove coatings, rust, and corrosion while the plant continues operating. Key advantages include:

• No dust release – prevents flammable dust clouds.
• No sparks – pneumatic design avoids ignition sources.
• Regulatory compliance – aligns with European safety directives and HSE requirements.
• Operational efficiency – maintenance can continue without costly total shutdowns.

Products with ATEX Certification

• PiSys™ – ATEX-certified vacuum blasting unit for Zone 1.
• PiWalk™ & PiPoint™ – ATEX-safe adapters for flat surfaces and spot blasting.
• PiCo Pipe™ – safe pipeline blasting in explosive zones.
• PiHab™ – containment solution for confined ATEX environments.

Contact Us

Do you want to work safely in explosive atmospheres while reducing downtime?

Request a demo or training and see Pinovo’s ATEX-certified blasting solutions in action.