ATEX Certified Hearing Aids

Safeguarding the hearing health of workers in hazardous environments

What are ATEX hearing aids?

ATEX-certified hearing aids are specialised devices designed to meet stringent safety standards for wearing in potentially explosive atmospheres.  For example, where flammable gases, vapors, or combustible dusts may be present.  These environments could be industrial settings such as oil rigs, chemical plants, or mining locations.

The actual word, ATEX, comes from the French term "Atmosphères Explosibles", which outlines regulations for equipment intended for use in potentially dangerous working environments. 

It doesn't stop at hearing aids either, other devices such as mobiles, watches, and computers have to be ATEX-certified to be used in these working conditions.  For example, when looking at both Rexton Reach and BiCore hearing aid ranges,

"The ATEX group/class is printed on the ATEX card, which must be available at hand when the hearing aids are used in explosive atmospheres. Ask your hearing care professional for your ATEX card"

Rexton

ATEX certification testing and long-term durability

The certification process for ATEX hearing aids involves rigorous testing to ensure their reliability, durability, and safety in hazardous environments. These tests assess resistance to high temperatures, pressure, and impact, as well as their safety in explosive atmospheres.

This means that they are often made from robust housing materials that can withstand harsh conditions, offer protection from moisture and corrosion whilst minimising the risk of leaks or electrical sparks.

ATEX Certification Hearing Aids

In addition to meeting safety requirements, what else can intrinsically safe hearing aids support you with?

ATEX hearing aids still prioritise features and comfort

ATEX certified hearing aids are equipped with features that meet the needs of those with hearing loss who work in harsh environments.  Features such as advanced Bluetooth, noise-cancelling, and speech clarity and enhancements settings. 

Thus ensuring that you can communicate effectively and hear through the noise of machinery and equipment as well as being alerted with any safety notices without sacrificing your safety.

Hearing aids with ATEX certification are also some of the most comfortable hearing solutions you can wear as they often feature an ergonomic design for all-day comfort.

Definition of ATEX zones table

In brief, ATEX zones are locations where there is a risk of explosion or combustion.  For example, combustion dust will eventually build up over time and emit flammable gases.  This also determines how equipment in hazardous working environments is labelled and used and potentially how long a worker can be in that atmosphere. 

Below we highlight each ATEX zone, its definition, and the level of explosive atmosphere present.