About the IECEx system
The IECEx system is one of the international certification systems operated under the IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission), and is formally called the IEC System for Certification to Standards Relating to Equipment for Use in Explosive Atmospheres. This system is an international mutual recognition system for explosion-proof equipment, as its name implies equipment for use in explosive atmosphere (Ex equipment), and as of the end of March 2014, 31 countries including major developed countries have participated.
There are four schemes in the IECEx system, among which the “IECEx Equipment Scheme”, which deals with testing and certification of Ex equipment, is the basis. In this scheme, testing is performed by a testing laboratory (ExTL) approved by the IECEx system, and a test report (ExTR) is created. In addition, various certifications are conducted by the certification body (ExCB) approved by the IECEx system. Specifically, based on the tests conducted by the testing laboratory, the certification body issues a test report to the applicant, as well as assesses the quality system related to the production of Ex equipment and issues a quality assessment report (QAR). Furthermore, based on the test report and the quality assessment report, the certification body issues the IECEx system certificate of conformity (IECExCoC).
In addition, as an obligation to the certification body etc., after receiving the test report issued by the certification body in another country, after performing additional tests and evaluations on the part that does not conform to the standard of the home country, the valid certification ( In the case of Japan, it is required to issue a type approval certificate). In addition, in operating the certification body and testing body, it is required to carry out the work using the IEC standard in accordance with the rules, procedure manuals, etc. defined by the IECEx.
(For more information, see Overview of the IECEx System .)
Testing and certification by the IECEx system
TIIS was approved as a certification body and a testing laboratory of “IECEx Equipment Scheme” among the four schemes of the IECEx system as of April 14, 2014 as described below.
| Letter of Acceptance | Certificate of Acceptance – ExCB | Certificate of Acceptance – ExTL |
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In line with this, from July 2014, we have started testing and certification of equipment for use in explosive atmospheres. Specifically, (1) tests are conducted on the equipment for use in explosive atmospheres for which an application has been made, and a test report (ExTR) is prepared and issued. In addition, (2) we assess the quality system related to the production of equipment for use in explosive atmospheres and issue a quality assessment report (QAR). Furthermore, (3) based on the test report and the quality assessment report, we issue an IECEx system certificate of conformity (IECExCoC).
In addition, we plan to apply for Conformity Mark Licensing System to IECEx so that manufacturers (applicants) of equipment for use in explosive atmospheres can display the conformity mark for their products which the IECEx system certificate of conformity is issued.