ATEX is the name commonly given to the legal requirements for controlling explosive atmospheres and the suitability of equipment and protective systems used in them.

 DSEAR states the legal requirements for managing the risk of fire, explosion or similar events arising from dangerous substances at the workplace.

 HSE has produced a quick guide to the Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations, 2002 and ATEX Directives. More detailed questions and answers are listed under the headings below:

• General, guidance and enforcement issues
• Scope
• Definitions
• Interpretation
• Technical standards
• Existing equipment issues
• Imported products
• General issues and information
• Liquified petroleum gas (LPG) issues

Further information on ATEX issues is also available from the The Department for Business Enterprise and Regulatory Reform (BERR).