ATEX – the European Standard, states all equipment used in a potentially explosive atmosphere must conform to specific safety standards. This includes two way radio equipment.
There are different ATEX ratings depending upon the working environment – a professional risk assessment will determine the classification of ATEX two way radio equipment required for your site.
There are limited types of two way radio and product ranges available to use in an ATEX environment. This is often a hand portable type of two way radio, with associated accessories such as headsets, remote speaker microphones, carry cases etc.
The charging units do not need to be ATEX rated as they will not be used within this environment, they will be located in an office etc.
All current ATEX two way radios are a digital type, with the ability to work in analogue mode if required. ATEX radios may be coloured blue and marked with an ‘EX’ symbol indicating ATEX certification.
Motorola
DP4401Ex
Features
In Stock
RRP From £1102.00 ex. VAT
Motorola
DP4801Ex
Features
Available on backorder
RRP From £1402.00 ex. VAT
Any radio equipment used in an ATEX rated environment must meet the ATEX standard required. The level of ATEX rating will be determined by a professional risk assessment.
ATEX certification is given to equipment that has gone through rigorous testing outlined by European Union directives. Products that are ATEX compliant have been proved safe to use in specific environments with explosive atmospheres, according to the zone/s they are certified to be used in.
As long as the ATEX areas on site are clearly defined and users are aware you can use a mixture of ATEX and non-ATEX radio products on site. It will however depend upon a professional risk assessment to deem it safe to do so. Manufacturers do put controls in place i.e. a standard battery will not fit on an ATEX rated two way radio etc.
Manufacturers and OEMs provide a range of ATEX rated accessories for most ATEX rated two way radio products. All ATEX rated products, including accessories, will have the ATEX ‘Ex’ stamp to show they are deemed safe to use in an ATEX working environment.
