Updated: June 2026
This article reflects the publication of IECEx 02 Edition 9.0, released on 25 March 2026.
The IECEx System has introduced Edition 9.0 of its Certified Equipment Scheme Rules of Procedure, bringing several important updates for manufacturers, certification bodies and organisations involved in the design and supply of equipment for explosive atmospheres. While the fundamental principles of IECEx certification remain unchanged, the latest edition reflects the continued evolution of international standards and certification processes.
As industries such as hydrogen, battery energy storage, oil & gas, chemicals and pharmaceuticals continue to expand, demand for internationally recognised hazardous area certification continues to grow. The publication of IECEx 02 Edition 9.0 demonstrates the scheme's ongoing commitment to maintaining globally harmonised certification procedures while supporting technological advances and regulatory developments.
What is IECEx?
The IECEx System is the International Electrotechnical Commission's conformity assessment system for equipment and services used in explosive atmospheres.
Unlike ATEX, which is a legal requirement within the European Union, IECEx is an international certification scheme recognised by many countries around the world. It provides confidence that equipment has been independently assessed against the internationally accepted IEC 60079 standards.
Today, IECEx certification is widely used throughout:
- Oil & Gas
- Chemical Processing
- Hydrogen Production
- LNG Facilities
- Mining
- Pharmaceutical Manufacturing
- Offshore Installations
- Energy Generation
- Industrial Manufacturing
For companies exporting equipment internationally, IECEx certification can significantly simplify market access.
What's New in Edition 9.0?
The publication of IECEx 02 Edition 9.0 represents the latest revision of the Rules of Procedure governing the IECEx Certified Equipment Scheme.
The updated edition introduces refinements aimed at improving consistency across certification bodies, strengthening governance arrangements and reflecting changes introduced through revised IEC standards.
Among the key areas addressed are:
- Improved certification procedures
- Updated administrative requirements
- Enhanced document management
- Greater harmonisation between participating certification bodies
- Clarification of responsibilities throughout the certification process
Although many of the changes are procedural rather than technical, they help maintain the credibility and international recognition of IECEx certification.
Why Does It Matter?
For manufacturers, compliance with the latest IECEx procedures helps ensure certification remains recognised throughout global markets.
Certification bodies also benefit from clearer procedures that improve consistency when assessing products against the IEC 60079 standards.
Ultimately, end users gain increased confidence that certified equipment has been assessed using harmonised international processes.
Growing Demand from Emerging Industries
One of the biggest drivers behind continued IECEx development is the rapid growth of emerging technologies.
Hydrogen infrastructure, battery energy storage systems, carbon capture facilities and renewable energy projects all present new hazardous area challenges.
As these industries expand, manufacturers increasingly require certification that is recognised internationally rather than being limited to one geographical region.
IECEx continues to play a central role in supporting these developments.
The Importance of the IEC 60079 Series
The IECEx Scheme is built around the internationally recognised IEC 60079 series of standards.
These standards cover every aspect of explosion protection, including:
- General equipment requirements
- Flameproof enclosures (Ex d)
- Increased safety (Ex e)
- Intrinsic Safety (Ex i)
- Pressurised equipment (Ex p)
- Equipment installation
- Inspection and maintenance
- Hazardous area classification
As these standards evolve, the IECEx Scheme is updated to ensure certification processes remain aligned with current technical requirements.
What Should Manufacturers Do?
Companies manufacturing equipment for explosive atmospheres should review the latest IECEx documentation and ensure internal certification processes remain aligned with current requirements.
Although existing certificates remain valid where appropriate, organisations planning new product approvals should work closely with their certification body to understand any procedural changes introduced through Edition 9.0.
Maintaining awareness of evolving IEC standards will also help reduce delays during future certification projects.
Looking Ahead
International demand for explosion-protected equipment continues to increase, particularly within hydrogen, renewable energy and advanced manufacturing sectors.
The publication of IECEx 02 Edition 9.0 reinforces the scheme's position as one of the world's leading certification systems for equipment used in explosive atmospheres.
For manufacturers seeking global market access, staying informed about these developments will remain an important part of successful product certification strategies.
Key Takeaways
- IECEx 02 Edition 9.0 was published in 2026.
- The update refines the Rules of Procedure for the IECEx Certified Equipment Scheme.
- Changes focus on certification processes, governance and harmonisation.
- IECEx continues to support international trade through globally recognised certification.
- Emerging sectors such as hydrogen and battery energy storage are driving increased demand for IECEx-certified equipment.
Editorial Note: This article provides an overview of recent IECEx developments. Organisations should consult the latest official IECEx Rules of Procedure and work with their chosen Certification Body before making certification or compliance decisions.
