From EN 13463 to EN ISO 80079-36 and -37

The former EN 13463 series of standards for non-electrical ATEX equipment has been replaced by EN ISO 80079-36 and EN ISO 80079-37. Published in 2016, these standards apply to equipment such as pumps, fans, mixers and other mechanical equipment with its own potential ignition sources.

On 31 October 2019, the presumption of conformity based on the superseded EN 13463 standards ceased. Since then, the new harmonised standards have provided the usual basis for assessing mechanical ATEX equipment.

Which Standards Replaced EN 13463?

The former EN 13463 standards have been replaced by two standards:

• EN ISO 80079-36:2016 replaces EN 13463-1 and specifies the general requirements for non-electrical Ex equipment, including the Ignition Hazard Assessment (IHA).
• EN ISO 80079-37:2016 replaces EN 13463-5, -6 and -8 and specifies the types of protection constructional safety 'c', control of ignition sources 'b' and liquid immersion 'k'.

These types of protection may be applied individually or in combination.

From Ex c, b and k to Ex h

An important change concerns the marking of non-electrical equipment.

The individual types of protection 'c', 'b' and 'k' are no longer indicated separately on the equipment marking. Instead, the general designation Ex h is used, for example:

II 2G Ex h IIB T4 Gb

However, the types of protection actually applied must still be documented in the technical documentation and operating instructions.

In addition, the marking now includes Equipment Protection Levels (EPLs), such as Gb, Db and Gc.

Do Existing ATEX Technical Files Need to Be Updated?

The withdrawal of the presumption of conformity for the EN 13463 standards does not automatically mean that equipment already placed on the market must be modified or recertified.

However, manufacturers continuing to produce or place equipment on the market must assess whether their designs still comply with the current state of the art.

Where the updated standards introduce relevant additional requirements, it may be necessary to revise the Ignition Hazard Assessment, technical documentation, equipment marking or operating instructions.

The application of harmonised standards is not mandatory. However, the manufacturer must demonstrate compliance with the applicable Essential Health and Safety Requirements (EHSRs) of ATEX Directive 2014/34/EU.

IECEx Certification Is Also Possible

ISO 80079-36 and ISO 80079-37 also provide a basis for international IECEx certification of non-electrical equipment.

Unlike ATEX conformity assessment procedures that allow manufacturer self-declaration for certain equipment categories, IECEx requires independent assessment by a recognised IECEx Certification Body (ExCB).

How Can MIBEX Assist You?

MIBEX supports manufacturers with the transition to EN ISO 80079-36/-37, performing Ignition Hazard Assessments and reviewing or updating existing ATEX technical documentation.

We also provide advice on suitable types of protection, Ex h marking and ATEX and IECEx certification.

Do you have questions about applying EN ISO 80079-36/-37 to your equipment? Please feel free to contact us.

The current list of harmonised ATEX standards is available on the European Commission's website.