The core directive governing ATEX explosion-proof certification is 2014/34/EU, commonly referred to as the "New Approach" directive known as ATEX 100A, which is the currently effective ATEX explosion protection directive.

Compared with previous directives, Directive 2014/34/EU features a remarkably expanded coverage scope: it covers both mining and non-mining equipment, encompassing both mechanical and electrical apparatus; meanwhile, potentially explosive atmospheres are extended to dust, flammable gases, flammable vapours and mists present in air.

For manufacturers of equipment intended for use in potentially explosive atmospheres, their explosion-proof equipment may be sold anywhere in Europe without additional requirements, provided that their products comply with the provisions of the ATEX directive and bear the CE marking.

The directive applies to a broad range of equipment, roughly including devices deployed on fixed offshore platforms, petrochemical plants, flour mills and other sites with potentially explosive atmospheres.

ATEX certification is a test and certification approval to verify the safety of products sold to the EU and other international regions. The ATEX certificate is mandatory within the EU, and it is also frequently specified as a contractual standard requirement in many countries outside Europe.