Inspection of Explosion-Proof Equipment
Independent IECEx Compliance Verification
Inspection of explosion-proof equipment is a systematic verification of electrical equipment installed in hazardous areas against the requirements of the IEC 60079 international standards series. The purpose of the inspection is to confirm that the equipment retains its explosion-protection properties throughout its entire lifecycle: from installation to operation and maintenance.
Inspection enables the identification of deviations that may lead to loss of explosion protection: incorrect installation, enclosure damage, non-conforming cable entries, breached earthing, or incorrect Ex marking. The service is critically important for oil & gas, chemical and energy facilities, where personnel safety and asset integrity depend directly on the condition of Ex equipment.
The outcome of the inspection is a technically substantiated report classifying identified non-conformances and providing recommendations for their elimination.
Regulatory and Technical Basis
Inspections are carried out in accordance with local PTB and PTE regulations, as well as the IEC 60079 international standards series, including IEC 60079-14 (installation), IEC 60079-17 (inspection and maintenance) and IEC 60079-19 (repair and reconditioning). The requirements of the TR CU 012, IECEx and ATEX schemes for conformity verification and personnel competence are also taken into account.
The key element is the participation of a competent inspector holding confirmed qualifications in explosion protection. Unlike installation or service work, an inspection is an independent assessment of equipment condition aimed at objectively confirming its fitness for safe operation.
The initial inspection is carried out after installation of explosion-proof equipment has been completed and before the facility is commissioned. Its purpose is to confirm that the installation complies fully with the requirements of IEC 60079-14 and the project documentation.
The inspection involves visual, close and, where necessary, detailed examination of the equipment. The correctness of Ex marking, the condition of enclosures, the correct installation of cable entries, the presence and integrity of seals, earthing, and the conformity of the installed equipment with the declared zone and temperature class are all assessed.
The results of the initial inspection are recorded in an official report and serve as the basis for authorising the equipment for operation.
Items verified during the initial inspection:
Conformity of equipment with the declared hazardous zone;
Correctness of Ex marking;
Correct installation of cable entries and seals;
Presence and quality of earthing;
Absence of mechanical damage.
The initial inspection is a mandatory stage prior to commissioning of the facility.