IECEx 03 – Certification of Ex Service Facilities
IECEx 03 is an international certification scheme for companies providing services related to explosion-protected equipment and installations. These include repair and overhaul workshops, engineering companies, installation contractors and inspection companies.
IECEx 03 certification enables companies to demonstrate that they have the necessary competence, procedures and quality management systems to perform work on Ex equipment and installations safely and in accordance with the applicable standards.
Certification is voluntary and is carried out by an approved IECEx Certification Body (ExCB).
Which Activities Are Covered by IECEx 03?
The IECEx Certified Service Facilities Scheme covers several areas of activity:
- IECEx 03-2 – Selection and Design: selection of explosion-protected equipment and design of electrical Ex installations according to IEC 60079-14.
- IECEx 03-3 – Installation and Initial Inspection: installation of Ex equipment and initial inspections according to IEC 60079-14.
- IECEx 03-4 – Inspection and Maintenance: inspection and maintenance of electrical Ex installations according to IEC 60079-17.
- IECEx 03-5 – Repair, Overhaul and Reclamation: work on explosion-protected equipment according to IEC 60079-19.
A company may obtain certification for one or more of these activities. The exact scope of certification is specified in the IECEx certificate.
Repair and Overhaul According to IEC 60079-19
When explosion-protected equipment is repaired, overhauled or reclaimed, the characteristics that ensure explosion protection must be maintained.
IEC 60079-19 specifies requirements covering:
- Permitted repair and overhaul methods for the different types of protection.
- Assessment of damaged or worn components.
- Restoration of critical dimensions and tolerances.
- Required inspections, measurements and tests.
- Documentation, traceability and marking of repaired equipment.
IECEx 03-5 enables repair and overhaul facilities to have their technical competence and working procedures independently assessed and certified.
What Are the Requirements for IECEx 03 Certification?
To qualify for IECEx 03 certification, a company must demonstrate that its activities are performed in accordance with the applicable standards and IECEx procedures.
The assessment focuses on:
- Personnel competence: demonstrable knowledge, training and experience of employees.
- Quality management system: documented procedures for performing and controlling activities.
- Technical facilities: suitable tools, measuring instruments and testing facilities.
- Documentation and traceability: records of work performed, inspections, non-conformities and results.
How Does IECEx 03 Certification Work?
An approved IECEx Certification Body (ExCB) assesses the company's quality management system, technical procedures and competence of the personnel involved.
The results are documented in a Facility Assessment Report (FAR). Following a successful assessment, the ExCB may issue an IECEx Service Facility Certificate.
After certification, periodic surveillance assessments are performed to verify continued compliance with the applicable requirements.
Certificates and associated assessment reports can be accessed through the IECEx Online Certificate System.
How Can MIBEX Assist You?
MIBEX supports companies in preparing for IECEx 03 certification, particularly repair and overhaul facilities working according to IEC 60079-19.
Our services include:
- Reviewing existing procedures and working methods.
- Supporting the development and improvement of quality management systems.
- Providing advice on technical requirements, documentation and traceability.
- Training employees in explosion protection and the applicable standards.
- Preparing for and supporting certification audits performed by an ExCB.
More information about other certification schemes can be found on our page about ATEX and IECEx certification.
Are you considering IECEx 03 certification for your company? Please feel free to contact us to discuss your requirements.
Further information about the scheme is available on the official IECEx website.