ATEX Smartphones

ATEX-rated smartphones are designed for use in potentially explosive atmospheres, making them suitable for certain hazardous working environments where conventional mobile devices may present a safety risk.

When equipped with a compatible lone worker protection application, these smartphones can combine everyday communication functions with personal safety features. Depending on the application, employees may be able to raise an emergency alert if they experience an accident, medical emergency or threatening situation.

Combining a work smartphone and lone worker protection functionality in a single device allows employees to make calls, send messages, access emails and use business applications without carrying separate equipment.

Many ATEX-rated smartphones run on Android and offer additional features such as water and dust resistance, robust construction and enhanced audio capabilities. However, specifications vary between models, so devices should be selected according to the working environment, required hazardous-area classification and the needs of the employee.

ATEX-rated smartphones with compatible lone worker protection functionality are particularly suited to employees working in potentially explosive atmospheres who also require regular access to business applications. Combining communication and safety features in a single device, they provide a practical solution for workers operating in hazardous environments, provided the device is appropriately certified for the area in which it will be used.

ATEX is the acronym used for Explosive Atmosphere. As part of isolated work, employees operating in this type of environment must be equipped with protection that meets the ATEX standard. The ATEX smartphone is therefore an ATEX-certified PTI DATI solution, compliant and suitable for ATEX zones.

ATEX environments are areas where potentially explosive atmospheres may develop due to the presence of flammable gases, vapours, mists or combustible dusts.

In the UK, workplaces where explosive atmospheres may occur are subject to the Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2002 (DSEAR). Employers must assess the risks and, where necessary, classify hazardous areas according to the likelihood and duration of an explosive atmosphere being present.

Potentially hazardous environments can be found across a range of industries, including:

• Food processing and manufacturing
• Pharmaceutical production
• Cement manufacturing
• Woodworking and timber processing
• Petrol stations and fuel storage facilities
• Metal processing and manufacturing
• Waste processing and recycling facilities
• Cosmetics and chemical manufacturing

The presence of hazardous substances does not automatically mean an entire site is classified as a hazardous area. Appropriate equipment, including ATEX-rated smartphones, must be selected according to the specific risks and hazardous-area classification.

In the UK, workplaces where potentially explosive atmospheres may occur are regulated under the Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2002 (DSEAR).

These regulations require employers to assess the risks associated with dangerous substances and implement appropriate measures to protect employees and others who may be affected.

Key responsibilities include:

• Identifying and assessing potential fire and explosion hazards.
• Classifying areas where explosive atmospheres may occur into appropriate hazardous zones.
• Implementing suitable measures to prevent explosions and reduce their potential consequences.
• Ensuring equipment used in hazardous areas is appropriate for the relevant zone and conditions.
• Providing employees with suitable information, instruction and training.

Equipment intended for use in potentially explosive atmospheres is also subject to applicable UK product safety requirements, including the Equipment and Protective Systems Intended for Use in Potentially Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2016.

For employers responsible for lone workers in hazardous environments, selecting appropriately certified equipment is particularly important. ATEX-rated smartphones with compatible lone worker protection functionality can provide a practical means of communication and emergency alerting, provided they are suitable for the hazardous-area classification and the risks identified.