Smartphones are indispensable in everyday working life - even where there is a risk of explosion. But: taking a normal smartphone into the Ex zone is grossly negligent. Nevertheless, the idea of simply putting an "explosion protection cover" over your cell phone is a persistent one. What good is it really?
What is an explosion protection cover?
Manufacturers advertise covers that are supposed to make a normal smartphone "safe" for hazardous areas. That sounds tempting, but the reality is different:
- A cover alone does not make an ATEX device.
- Only the completely certified system consisting of a precisely fitting case and a exactly defined smartphone model is permissible.
- The certification applies exclusively to this factory combination as it was delivered.
- Whoever operates the device, switches it, or removes it from the casing and reinserts it loses the explosion protection. Period.
Typical error in thinking: "Just get in, that's it!"
Many people think it's enough to take their smartphone out of their trouser pocket or vehicle cradle, put it in the case and you're already ATEX-compliant.
That is wrong and dangerous.
- The certificate is only valid ex works - after professional installation by a certified company (usually the manufacturer itself).
- A device that is removed by the user and then placed back into the case is no longer an ex-device.
- Anyone who believes that they can "just" take a standard handheld into the Ex-Zone with an Ex cover risks more than just trouble with the insurance company in an emergency.
Explosion protection is inconvenient - but necessary
Many people find explosion protection a nuisance. Sure, a cheap cover would be a convenient way of circumventing the regulations. But it doesn't work.
Explosion protection is not a gimmick, but a requirement - and violations can have criminal consequences in an emergency.
Who is an explosion protection cover useful for?
Honestly: Almost never.
- Only in very specific cases, where there is no certified ex-device for a particular hardware (e.g., industry-specific specialty devices or proprietary apps on certain consumer models), can a factory-installed and certified case be a (costly) niche solution.
- For normal cases, especially in industry and trade, this is a sham discussion.
- If in doubt, always use a proper Ex device - anything else is negligent and will not stand up to scrutiny.
Conclusion - pragmatism instead of illusion
- Explosion protection covers are not a DIY solution for your pocket.
- Use is only permitted as a complete system ex works and may only be installed by certified companies (usually the manufacturer itself).
- Anyone who plugs and unplugs their own devices loses their license - and in the worst case risks life, limb and livelihood.
- No person or task is so important that you should put human lives, jobs or capital at risk. If in doubt, it is better to do without a smartphone than to take the risk for yourself and others.
ATEX is not harassment, but life insurance. In case of doubt, the few hundred euros for a genuine Ex device are better invested than the cheapest solution on the market.
Question for readers:
Who has ever worked with explosion protection covers? Were these really supplied ex works or has someone "just" retrofitted them? Please share your experiences in the comments.