New ATEX 2014/34/EU Guidelines 6th Edition – January 2026

The 6th edition integrates decisions of the ATEX Expert Group and updates outdated references and standards.

Spare parts (§33): Spare parts for products already placed on the EU market are generally outside the ATEX scope unless they qualify as equipment or components under the Directive, in which case full compliance is required.

Equipment outside scope (§38): Further clarification is provided on “simple” electrical and mechanical products without their own ignition source (e.g., hand tools and hand-operated valves). Such products are typically out of scope. Certain consumer products (e.g., domestic battery pumps) may instead fall under the General Product Safety Regulation (EU) 2023/988.

Digital EU Declaration of Conformity (§74, §151): The requirement to supply the EU DoC and instructions solely in paper form is removed. Safety instructions must still be provided on paper, but the EU DoC may be made available digitally. When provided in digital form, the manufacturer must indicate on the product (e.g., on the rating plate) an internet address or machine-readable code, such as a QR code, enabling direct access to the EU DoC. The document must remain accessible online for the expected product lifetime and at least 10 years after placing on the market. A paper copy must be supplied free of charge upon request.

Trace heating systems (§253): Clearer distinction between stabilized/controlled designs and Type A/Type B systems, with defined certification, temperature classification, installation, and manufacturer responsibilities.

More information:
Matej Debenc
E-mail: matej.debenc@siq.si
Tel.: +386 1 4778 227