ATEX Zone 2: Understanding Hazardous Area Classification - Safety Guidelines

ATEX zone 2 refers to a hazardous area classification in which an explosive atmosphere is not likely to occur or, if it does occur, it will only exist for a short period of time. This classification is defined by the European Union's ATEX directive, which provides guidelines for the design, installation, and use of equipment in potentially explosive atmospheres. \n\nZone 2 is considered a less hazardous area compared to Zone 0 and Zone 1, where explosive atmospheres are more likely to be present. In Zone 2, the concentration of flammable gases, vapors, or dusts is not expected to exceed safe limits under normal operating conditions, but may occasionally exceed those limits due to abnormal situations. Therefore, equipment used in Zone 2 must still be designed and certified to ensure it does not create a source of ignition.