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ATEX refers to two EU directives, the ATEX Equipment Directive 94/9/EC and the ATEX Workplace Directive 1999/92/EC, on potentially explosive atmospheres and machinery and equipment used in them. The purpose of the directives is to protect those working in potentially explosive atmospheres, harmonise the safety requirements of EU Member States on potentially explosive atmospheres (Ex) and machinery and equipment used in them and ensure free trade in Ex equipment.
Finnish national legislation based on the ATEX Equipment Directive has been in force since 1996: Government Decree 917/1996 and Decision of the Ministry of Trade and Industry 918/1996. New products intended for potentially explosive atmospheres may only be placed on the market, supplied for use or taken into use if they are in compliance with the new regulations.
The ATEX Workplace Directive applies to those production facilities and workplaces where flammable liquids, gases, mists or vapours or combustible dusts may cause a risk of explosion. The ATEX Workplace Directive has been brought into force in Finland by Government Decree 576/2003 of 1 September 2003. It applies to new potentially explosive atmospheres and amendments and repairs of old premises.
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