The ATEX Directive (2014/34/EU) and the UK’s equivalent regulations remain central to ensuring equipment used in explosive atmospheres is safe and compliant. Over the past year, several important updates have been introduced that manufacturers, maintenance teams and hazardous-area operators should be aware of—especially as new standards come into force and the UK continues to refine its post-Brexit framework.

New ATEX Standard Introduced for 2025

One of the most significant changes is the introduction of EN 17348:2022, a new standard covering:

• Hand-held, portable and transportable vacuum cleaners

• Vacuum systems used for combustible or non-combustible dusts

• Equipment intended for flammable and non-flammable liquids in explosive atmospheres

This standard becomes fully effective from January 2025, and manufacturers must ensure their equipment aligns with the updated requirements. For end users, this means checking whether new or replacement vacuum systems carry compliance to EN 17348.

UK Designated Standards List Updated

Although the UK no longer follows EU law, it maintains its own list of “designated standards” for explosion-protected equipment under the Equipment and Protective Systems Intended for Use in Potentially Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2016.

The list was most recently updated on 18 November 2025, with revisions to harmonised EN and IEC standards. Manufacturers selling into the UK market should review these changes immediately to ensure Declarations of Conformity reflect the latest designated standards.

CE/ATEX vs UKEX: What Companies Need to Know

Post-Brexit, CE and ATEX marking continue to be accepted in the UK under transitional arrangements. However:

• New equipment placed on the UK market may increasingly require UKCA/UKEX marking and updated technical files.

• Organisations should confirm with suppliers whether equipment meets the correct conformity route for their region.

For EU exports, traditional ATEX certification remains mandatory.

Impact on Hazardous Industry Operations

These regulatory shifts have practical implications for maintenance, reliability and safety teams working in hazardous areas across industries such as oil & gas, chemical, pharmaceutical and food manufacturing (dust explosion environments). Key actions include:

• Verifying that all new or replacement Ex-rated equipment complies with the latest standard updates.

• Requesting updated Declarations of Conformity and certification from suppliers.

• Ensuring procurement teams understand whether CE/ATEX, UKEX or both are required.

Opportunities for Manufacturers

With new standards now in effect and regulatory clarity improving, there is strong demand for:

• New product launches with updated ATEX or UKEX certification

• Case studies showing real-world performance in hazardous zones

• Innovative Ex-rated technologies supporting predictive maintenance, safety improvements and digitalisation

HES welcomes relevant product releases and technical articles for publication.