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| ATEX 137 - Classification of Hazardous Places |
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 In accordance with the Directive, hazardous areas are classified as:
A place in which an explosive atmosphere consisting of a mixture with air of flammable substances in the form of gas, vapour or mist is: |
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Zone 0 (category 1 equipment)
present continuously or for long periods or frequently |
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Zone 1 (category 1 or 2 equipment)
likely to occur in normal operation occasionally |
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Zone 2 (category 1, 2 or 3 equipment)
not likely to occur in normal operation but, if it does occur, will persist for a short period only |
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| A place in which an explosive atmosphere in the form of a cloud of combustible dust in air is: |
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Zone 20 (category 1 equipment)
present continuously, or for long periods or frequently |
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Zone 21 (category 1 or 2 equipment)
likely to occur in normal operation occasionally |
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Zone 22 (category 1, 2 or 3 equipment)
is not likely to occur in normal operation but, if it does occur, will persist for a short period only |
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| It is worth noting that ATEX maintenance and repair obligations depend on the category of the equipment rather than the zone in which it is installed. Therefore, putting category 1 equipment, which has a very high level of safety and is designed for use in Zone 0 or Zone 20 areas, into a Zone 2 area could have long-term financial implications. |
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