For industries operating in potentially explosive environments, safety certifications like ATEX approved and NFPA 70 NEC are critical to ensuring the correct equipment is selected and installed. These certifications are vital for reducing ignition risks in environments where flammable gases, dust, or vapors may be present. However, understanding the differences between these certifications can be complex, as each has its unique classification systems and applications. Here, we’ll break down the essentials of each certification and discuss how RAD Torque’s certified tools meet these rigorous standards.

“ATEX and NFPA 70 NEC certifications are both vital, but each approaches hazard classification differently. Understanding these differences is key to maintaining safety across international sites,” says Brian Warmerdam, Product Manager at RAD Torque Systems.

ATEX and NFPA 70 NEC Certifications: What’s the Difference?

ATEX (Atmosphere Explosive) is the certification used across Europe for equipment that operates in potentially explosive environments, while NFPA 70 NEC (National Fire Protection Association 70, National Electrical Code) applies primarily in North America. Both help companies understand the hazard level of specific areas and select the appropriate equipment.

RAD Torque’s Certified Tools for Explosive Environments

RAD Torque offers specialized tools designed to meet these certification requirements. Here’s a quick look at our product lineup for environments requiring ATEX or NFPA 70 NEC compliance:

• B-RAD Select (Brushless Only): Certified to NEC Class 1 Div 2, this tool offers safety in environments with gas or vapour hazards.
• B-RAD X: Also, NEC Class 1 Div 2 certified, the B-RAD X provides an additional layer of protection for professionals working in potentially explosive gas or vapour atmospheres.
• Pneumatic Tools: Our pneumatic tools come with ATEX approved kits available from select distributors, making them ideal for environments where European ATEX zone compliance is required.

These tools provide solutions that ensure compliance and safety across various regulated environments, allowing companies to operate confidently in both North America and Europe.

A Closer Look at ATEX Classifications

ATEX divides hazardous environments into “zones,” each indicating the likelihood of a hazardous material being present:

• Zone 0 and Zone 20: Ignitable substances are continuously present.
• Zone 1 and Zone 21: Ignitable atmospheres may be present during regular operations.
• Zone 2 and Zone 22: Hazardous atmospheres are rare and generally occur only during abnormal situations.

NFPA 70 NEC Classifications

NFPA 70 NEC defines hazardous areas differently, using “classes” and “divisions” based on exposure risk and substance type:

• Class 1: Hazardous due to gases, vapors, or mist
  • Division 1: Concentrations present 10–1,000 hours/year.
  • Division 2: Rarely present (<10 hours/year).
• Class 2: Hazardous due to powder or dust, with similar divisions for varying exposure.

Meeting Both Standards: NEMA and IP Ratings

Our tools also meet IP and NEMA ratings that specify protection against ingress of water, dust, and other environmental factors. These standards help us provide equipment that can withstand both the physical and regulatory demands of hazardous environments.

Conclusion

ATEX approved and NFPA 70 NEC certifications are essential for safe operation in explosive environments, with each standard addressing specific regional and industrial needs. At RAD Torque Systems, we’re committed to providing compliant, high-performance tools for these high-stakes applications. To learn more about our certified torque tools or how they can fit your operational requirements, please explore our product pages or reach out to our team.