IECEx 03-2

Edition 2.0 2023-10

IECEx PUBLICATION

IEC System for Certification to Standards relating to Equipment for use

in Explosive Atmospheres (IECEx System)

IECEx Certified service facilities scheme –

Part 2: Selection of Ex equipment and design of Ex installations – Rules of
Procedure
IECEx 03-2:2023(E)
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 IECEx 03-2
Edition 2.0 2023-10

IECEx PUBLICATION

IEC System for Certification to Standards Relating to Equipment for Use in

Explosive Atmospheres (IECEx System)

IECEx Certified service facilities scheme –

Part 2: Selection of Ex equipment and design of Ex installations – Rules of
Procedure

INTERNATIONAL
ELECTROTECHNICAL
COMMISSION PRICE CODE
ZZ
 –2– IECEx 03-2, Edition 2.0 © IEC:2023(E)

CONTENTS

FOREWORD ............. ………………………………………………………………………………………4

INTRODUCTION……………………………………………………………………………………. ......... 5
1 Scope ............................................................................................................................ 7
2 Normative references ..................................................................................................... 7
3 Definitions ...................................................................................................................... 7
4 Governance of the IECEx Certified service facilities scheme ............................................ 8
5 Principles of the IECEx Certified service facilities scheme for selection of Ex
equipment and design of Ex installations ......................................................................... 9
5.1 IECEx service facility certificate ............................................................................. 9
5.2 Method of application ............................................................................................. 9
5.3 Permissions ........................................................................................................... 9
5.4 Editions of standards, documents and guides ......................................................... 9
6 Confidentiality .............................................................................................................. 10
7 Participation of countries in the IECEx Certified service facilities scheme ...................... 10
8 IECEx instruments ........................................................................................................ 10
8.1 IECEx service facility certificate ........................................................................... 10
8.1.1 Issue ....................................................................................................... 10
8.1.2 Layout ..................................................................................................... 10
8.1.3 Content .................................................................................................... 10
8.2 IECEx facilities audit report .................................................................................. 11
8.2.1 Content .................................................................................................... 11
8.2.2 Layout ..................................................................................................... 11
8.2.3 Issue ....................................................................................................... 11
8.2.4 Restrictions .............................................................................................. 11
9 Process to issue an IECEx service facility certificate for selection of Ex equipment
and design of Ex installations ....................................................................................... 11
9.1 Applicant ............................................................................................................. 11
9.2 Documentation .................................................................................................... 11
9.3 Examination ........................................................................................................ 12
9.4 Assessment of service facility’s quality system ..................................................... 12
9.5 Completion .......................................................................................................... 12
9.6 Surveillance ........................................................................................................ 12
9.7 Changes not covered by the FAR ......................................................................... 12
9.8 Ensuring conformity ............................................................................................. 13
9.9 Documentation retained ....................................................................................... 13
9.10 Surcharges .......................................................................................................... 13
9.11 Suspension or cancellation .................................................................................. 13
9.12 Notification of cancellation ................................................................................... 14
9.13 Compliance with rules .......................................................................................... 15
9.14 Appeals ............................................................................................................... 15
10 Acceptance of certification bodies ................................................................................. 15
10.1 Acceptance of certification bodies (new ExCBs) not currently participating in
the IECEx System’s Certified service facilities scheme ......................................... 15
10.1.1 Conditions for acceptance ........................................................................ 15
10.1.2 Application ............................................................................................... 16
IECEx 03-2, Edition 2.0 © IEC:2023(E) –3–

10.1.3 Assessment ............................................................................................. 16

10.1.4 Resolution of differences .......................................................................... 16
10.1.5 Report to ExMC ....................................................................................... 16
10.1.6 Acceptance .............................................................................................. 17
10.1.7 Notification .............................................................................................. 17
10.1.8 Changes in application ............................................................................. 17
10.1.9 Extension of scope within the IECEx 03-2 scheme .................................... 17
10.1.10 Re-assessment ...................................................................................... 17
10.1.11 Withdrawal ............................................................................................. 17
10.1.12 Suspension ............................................................................................ 17
11 IECEx publications ....................................................................................................... 18
11.1 Types of publications ........................................................................................... 18
11.2 Information to be available ................................................................................... 18
11.3 IECEx Bulletin ..................................................................................................... 18
11.4 Source of information ........................................................................................... 18
12 Complaints ................................................................................................................... 19
Annex A (normative) Declaration by a certification body applying to become an Ex
certification body for the IECEx Certified service facilities scheme for selection of
Ex equipment and design of Ex installations .................................................................. 20
 –4– IECEx 03-2, Edition 2.0 © IEC:2023(E)

INTERNATIONAL ELECTROTECHNICAL COMMISSION

––––––––––––

IECEx Certified service facilities scheme –

Part 2: Selection of Ex equipment and design of Ex installations –
Rules of Procedure

FOREWORD

The IECEx management committee (ExMC) has prepared this publication.

This publication is directly related to publication IECEx 03-0 that complements the IECEx Basic
Rules (comprising IEC CA 01 and the IECEx Supplement IECEx 01-S)

This edition of IECEx 03-2 takes effect immediately upon publication.

All of the annexes to this publication are normative.

The text of this publication is based on the following documents:

Date Document Report on Voting

2013 1. ExMC/819A/RM
Not applicable
2. ExMC/746/INF

2017-11 Edition 1.1

n/a Revised following the 2017 ExMC Meeting to align with

IEC CA 01 and new IECEx Basic Rules – refer ExMC
Decision 2017/18
2023-10 Edition 2.0
n/a Revision to Clauses 9.11 and 9.12 following 2023 ExSFC
meeting decisions and ExMC Decision 2023/27
IECEx 03-2, Edition 2.0 © IEC:2023(E) –5–

INTRODUCTION

The IECEx is a single global certification framework based on the IEC International Standards.
It caters for countries whose national standards are either identical to those of the IEC or else
very close to IEC International Standards.

The IECEx is truly global in concept and practice, reduces trade barriers caused by different
conformity assessment criteria in various countries, and helps industry to open up new markets.

The goal is to help manufacturers reduce costs and time while developing and maintaining
uniform product evaluation to protect users against products that are not in line with the required
level of safety.

The aim of the IECEx System and its schemes is to ease international trade of explosion
protected equipment (termed Ex equipment) by eliminating the need for duplication of testing
and certification, while preserving safety. IECEx operates as an international certification
system covering products and services associated with the Ex industries and plants.

IECEx schemes also aim the true view and approach of assuring safety in hazardous areas
during the whole life-cycle of Ex plants, which requires proper auditing, hazardous area
classification, design, installation, inspection, maintenance and repair of explosion protected
equipment.

The certification of the required competence of personnel engaged in tasks in hazardous areas
is covered by the Certification of personnel competence scheme (IECEx 05).

Where do we commonly find Ex equipment and hazardous locations?

Flammable gases, vapours and combustible dusts create potentially explosive atmospheres.
Ex equipment and installations in such areas include:

• Automotive refuelling stations or petrol stations

• Oil refineries, rigs and processing plants
• Oil and gas tankers, drilling ships and floating production storage offloading vessels (FPSO)
• Chemical and petrochemical processing plants
• Printing industries, paper and textiles
• Hospital operating theatres
• Aircraft refuelling and hangars
• Surface coating industries
• Underground coal mines
• Sewerage treatment plants
• Gas pipelines and distribution centres
• Grain handling and storage and processing (flour-milling industry)
• Woodworking areas
• Sugar and ethanol refineries
• Light metal working, where metal dust and fine particles can appear
 –6– IECEx 03-2, Edition 2.0 © IEC:2023(E)

IECEx Certified service facilities scheme – Part 2: Selection of Ex equipment and design
of Ex installations

While certification of new Ex equipment is covered by the IECEx Certified equipment scheme,
as detailed in IECEx 02, the IECEx Certified service facilities scheme provides a single
international scheme for the assessment and certification of Ex related service facilities that
have an impact on the ongoing compliance of Ex equipment and Ex installations with Ex safety
standards.

Manufacturers producing new Ex equipment in accordance with their Ex equipment certification

regime cannot be held responsible for the decisions taken in the suitable selection of Ex
equipment and design of Ex installations, required during the whole life cycle of Ex installations.

The IECEx Certified service facilities scheme - Selection of Ex equipment and design of Ex
installations provides Ex equipment and Ex installations users, regulators and the community
with the confidence that Ex safety is maintained when selection of Ex equipment and design
of Ex installations are performed by an IECEx certified service facility in accordance with this
scheme.

Ex service facilities that achieve IECEx certification are required to demonstrate compliance
with stringent IECEx requirements including:

• Operational procedures and selection of Ex equipment and design of Ex installations

methods and criteria meet IECEx technical requirements encompassing IEC 60079-14
• IECEx quality management system (QMS) requirements, based on ISO 9001
• Competent responsible persons and operatives (designers) with current competence related
to Ex equipment and Ex selection and design standards or certification requirements,
encompassing IEC 60079-14 and Unit of competence Ex 009 (Design electrical installations
in or associated with explosive atmospheres) set forth in IECEx OD 504 (Specification for
units of competence assessment outcomes)
• Others necessary for proper selection of Ex equipment and design of Ex installations

More information

Further information is available from the IECEx website: www.iecex.com, (containing free
copies of the IECEx Rules of Procedure), from any of the IECEx certification bodies or directly
from the IECEx Secretariat via the coordinates shown on the IECEx website.
IECEx 03-2, Edition 2.0 © IEC:2023(E) –7–

IECEx Certified service facilities scheme –

Part 2: Selection of Ex equipment and design of Ex installations –
Rules of Procedure
1 Scope

This publication is directly related to IECEx 03-0 that complements the IECEx Basic Rules
(comprising IEC CA 01 and the IECEx Supplement IECEx 01-S).

This document IECEx 03-2 supplements the general requirements contained in IECEx 03-0 by
defining the rules of procedure of the IECEx service facilities scheme covering the selection of
Ex equipment and design of Ex installations which is intended for use in explosive atmospheres
(IECEx certified service facilities scheme – Part 2). These rules are further supplemented by
the IECEx scheme’s operational documents.

NOTE: Rules covering the IECEx certified equipment scheme and the IECEx certification of personnel competence
scheme are given in publications IECEx 02 and IECEx 05 respectively.

2 Normative references

The following referenced documents are indispensable for the application of these rules.
IECEx Basic Rules (IEC CA 01 + IECEx 01-S), IEC Harmonized Basic Rules (IEC CA 01) plus
the IECEx Supplement (IECEx 01-S)

IECEx 03-0, IECEx Certified Service Facilities Scheme Part 0: General rules of procedure

IECEx OD 504, IECEx Scheme for Certification of Personnel Competence for Explosive
Atmospheres – Specification for units of competence assessment outcomes

IEC 60079-14, Explosive atmospheres – Part 14: Electrical installations design, selection and
erection

ISO/IEC Guide 2, Standardization and related activities – General vocabulary

ISO/IEC 17000, Conformity assessment – Vocabulary and general principles

ISO/IEC 17021-1, Conformity assessment – Requirements for bodies providing audit and
certification of management systems

ISO/IEC 17065, Conformity assessment – Requirements for bodies certifying products,

processes and services

ISO 9001, Quality management systems – Requirements

3 Definitions

ISO/IEC Guide 2 and ISO/IEC 17000 give the basic definitions.

For the purpose of the IECEx Certified service facilities scheme – Part 2, the definitions
contained in IECEx 02 and those below apply:
 –8– IECEx 03-2, Edition 2.0 © IEC:2023(E)

4.1
Ex certification body (ExCB) within the ExSFC scheme
a body which has been accepted according to these rules and which issues IECEx service
facility certificates and IECEx facility audit reports

4.2
IECEx Certified service facilities scheme – Part 2
the IECEx scheme for the certification of service facilities involved in design of installations and
selection of equipment intended for use in explosive atmospheres. This Part 2 may also be
referred to as the “IECEx 03-2 scheme”

4.3
IECEx service facility certificate
a document issued under these rules indicating that adequate confidence is provided that a
duly identified service facility has been found to operate procedures that provide confidence
that the work undertaken complies with IECEx requirements and is under the surveillance of an
IECEx certification body (ExCB)

4.4
IECEx facilities audit report (FAR)
a document that presents the results of an on-site assessment of a service facility’s quality
control system, equipment, operating procedures and competence of their staff, by an ExCB,
to the requirements of the IECEx service facility certification scheme

4.5
Applicant
an organization who applies to an ExCB for an IECEx service facility certificate for Ex design
and selection

4.6
Service facility
an organization that carries out or controls such stages in selection of Ex equipment and design
of Ex installations, as required in IEC 60079-14

4 Governance of the IECEx Certified service facilities scheme

The Ex management committee (ExMC), whose responsibilities in this respect are defined in
the IECEx Basic Rules, shall govern this IECEx Certified service facilities scheme (referred to
throughout this document as “scheme”).

This document, IECEx 03-2, sets out the general rules and procedures of the IECEx Certified
service facilities scheme covering selection of Ex equipment and design of Ex installations.
These general rules are supplemented by the IECEx scheme’s operational documents. The
IECEx Executive Secretary shall be responsible for the issuing and maintenance of operational
documents which generally fall under the following categories:

a) Document containing explanatory guidance (IECEx Guide 03A)

b) Document containing rules and procedures that supplement those contained in IECEx 03-2

The ExMC shall be kept informed on the currency of operational documents with ExMC
agreement required for operational documents that fall under category b) above.
IECEx 03-2, Edition 2.0 © IEC:2023(E) –9–

5 Principles of the IECEx Certified service facilities scheme for selection of

Ex equipment and design of Ex installations

5.1 IECEx service facility certificate

The IECEx Certified service facilities scheme provides the means for service facilities to obtain
an IECEx certificate that is intended to provide the international Ex community with confidence
that such service facilities undertake the work in accordance with the technical and quality
management system requirements of the IECEx service facilities scheme for selection of Ex
equipment and design of Ex installations.

The aim of this IECEx Certified service facilities scheme is to ensure that selection of Ex
equipment and design of Ex installations service facilities comply with the following:

• The establishment and implementation of system procedures

• Possess as a minimum one person determined as responsible person, according to
IEC 60079-14, competent in the selection of Ex equipment and design of Ex installations
field by the ExCB

IEC 60079-14 and IECEx Certified service facilities scheme’s quality management system
(QMS) requirements, based on the relevant requirements of ISO 9001 with additional
requirements specific to design of installations and selection of Ex equipment, form the basis
of the IECEx Certified service facilities scheme for design and selection requirements.

The IECEx service facility certificate for selection of Ex equipment and design of Ex installations
should be issued for the full scope of activity covered by IEC 60079-14 but may be issued for a
specific activity that is clearly defined on the certificate.

Ex service facilities that have attained and maintain IECEx certification may affix the IECEx
logo to IECEx design and selection reports providing that there is no misrepresentation of the
scope of certification.

5.2 Method of application

An ExCB approved by the ExMC in accordance with these rules and associated IECEx
operational documents may issue IECEx service facility certification for design and selection.

Applications from organizations seeking acceptance as an ExCB for the purpose of issuing
IECEx service facility certificates can be accepted from bodies that reside in an IECEx
participating member country. The application is made to the IECEx Secretariat acceptance
Certification bodies are accepted into the IECEx Certified service facilities scheme for selection
of Ex equipment and design of Ex installations following satisfactory assessment of their
capability by assessors appointed by the ExMC.

The certification body’s capability is assessed in accordance with the requirements judged by
reference to ISO/IEC 17065 and ISO/IEC 17021 and IECEx scheme requirements.
5.3 Permissions

Only ExCBs that have been accepted for the purpose of issuing IECEx service facility
certificates and reside in an IECEx participating member country are permitted to issue IECEx
service facility certificates for design and selection.

5.4 Editions of standards, documents and guides

A new IECEx service facility certificate of conformity (CoC) may be issued to a service facility
for only the current edition of standards, documents and guides indicated in Clause 2.
(Normative references).

NOTE It is often the practice that Ex service facilities issue reports for any specified edition of the relevant standards,
up to and including the edition given in the certificate.
 – 10 – IECEx 03-2, Edition 2.0 © IEC:2023(E)

An upgrading of existing IECEx service facility certificates is required to be undertaken within

a time period not exceeding 3 years after the publication of a new edition of an IEC International
Standard.
Certificates that are not upgraded to the latest editions within this period shall be suspended or
cancelled.

6 Confidentiality

All those participating in the IECEx Certified service facilities scheme shall respect the
confidentiality of any information that they obtain and take all reasonable steps to bind their
staff and those working under contract to preserve that confidentiality. The effectiveness of
such steps taken shall be evaluated as part of the IECEx assessment of the ExCB.

7 Participation of countries in the IECEx Certified service facilities scheme

In order for a country to participate in the management of the IECEx Certified service facilities
scheme, the country must first be a member of the IECEx System and comply with the
requirements for IECEx membership, as detailed in IECEx Basic Rules.

Countries that are existing members of the IECEx System shall be considered members of the
IECEx Certified service facilities scheme.

8 IECEx instruments

8.1 IECEx service facility certificate

8.1.1 Issue

An ExCB, on the basis of a satisfactory IECEx facilities audit report (FAR), issues an IECEx
service facility certificate certifying that the selection of Ex equipment and design of Ex
installations service identified on the certificate conforms in all relevant respects with the IECEx
requirements concerning technical and quality management system procedures; and utilizes at
least one person, identified as a responsible person, as defined in IEC 60079-14 and whose
competence has been satisfactorily demonstrated tothe ExCB.

The purpose of an IECEx service facility certificate is to provide independent verification that
the service facility, listed on the IECEx service facility certificate, has the capability to comply
with IECEx Certified service facilities scheme requirements.

NOTE 1 The ExCB obtains evidence to verify the competence of the service facility staff, as claimed by the service
facility, during the assessment which may be by way of examination, interviews, demonstration of skills or a
combination of these. Formal training, both internal and external, concerning Ex should also be taken into account.

NOTE 2 The requirements set forth in IECEx OD 504 (Specification for units of competence assessment outcomes),
Units of competence Ex 009 (Design electrical installations in or associated with explosive atmospheres) should be
used as a reference.

8.1.2 Layout

The ExMC shall decide on the layout and content of IECEx service facility certificates.

8.1.3 Content

The IECEx service facility certificate shall contain at least the following information:

• Certificate number
• Date of issue
IECEx 03-2, Edition 2.0 © IEC:2023(E) – 11 –

• Clear description of the selection of Ex equipment and design of Ex installations service and
any limitations of scope
• Reference to the requirements set forth in IEC 60079-14
• Name and address of the service facility for selection of Ex equipment and design of Ex
installations
• The location from where the services covered by the IECEx service facility certificate are
controlled and reports are issued. A certificate shall only cover one location; in case of
multiple locations each location shall have its own certificate
• Reference number of the original FAR that enabled the IECEx service facility certificate to
be issued
• Name of the issuing ExCB

8.2 IECEx facilities audit report

8.2.1 Content

A FAR is prepared and issued by an ExCB recording the assessment of an Ex service facility’s
quality system for compliance with the IECEx design and selection requirements. The
assessment includes assessing conformity of the service facility’s documented quality system
with the requirements of the IECEx Certified service facilities scheme in addition to assessing
the implementation of the quality system by the service facility and the system for verifying
competency of Ex design and selection staff.

8.2.2 Layout

The ExMC shall define the layout and content of FARs.

8.2.3 Issue

Upon issuing FARs, ExCBs shall ensure that the FAR refers to the location(s) from where the
services covered by the IECEx service facility certificate are controlled and reports are issued.

8.2.4 Restrictions

The FAR is a document used in the preparation of the IECEx service facility certificate and is
the basis for ongoing surveillance of the service facility. It shall not be used in any form of
advertising or sales promotion in a way that the information may be misrepresented.

9 Process to issue an IECEx service facility certificate for selection of Ex

equipment and design of Ex installations

9.1 Applicant

An Ex service facility may make an application for an IECEx service facility certificate for
selection of Ex equipment and design of Ex installations to any ExCB that has been accepted
for this purpose by ExMC. The applicant shall declare that the same application is not ongoing
with any other ExCB nor has been refused in a previous stage with the same ExCB.

9.2 Documentation

The documentation submitted by the applicant shall accurately identify the selection of Ex
equipment and design of Ex installations services (including any scope limitations) for which
certification is required, the names of the responsible persons and operatives (designers) that
are to be verified as being competent as well as their location where the Ex service facility
conducts its activities.
 – 12 – IECEx 03-2, Edition 2.0 © IEC:2023(E)

The quality management system (QMS) of the service facility shall be documented and control
at least:

• the appointment of responsible persons and operatives and the maintenance of their
competence.
• the authorities and responsibilities of persons reviewing, issuing and managing reports

Reference should be made to the requirements set forth in IECEx OD 504 (Specification for
units of competence assessment outcomes), Unit of Competence Ex 009 (Design electrical
installations in or associated with explosive atmospheres).

9.3 Examination

The ExCB shall conduct an examination of the documentation to verify that the selection of Ex
equipment and design of Ex installations service is in conformity with IECEx requirements,
which embody the requirements of IEC 60079-14.

9.4 Assessment of service facility’s quality system

The ExCB shall assess the conformity of the service facility’s quality management system
(QMS) and associated quality plan(s) for compliance with IECEx Certified service facilities
scheme requirements. The ExCB shall issue an IECEx FAR, only when full conformity with
IECEx Certified service facilities scheme requirements has been established.

A facility assessment report (FAR) is valid for a maximum period of three (3) years providing
intermediate FAR assessments are satisfactory and the FAR is up-issued. A FAR can be
withdrawn or suspended if the results of intermediate surveillance assessments are
unsatisfactory during the three-year period. On or before the expiry of the three year period a
full reassessment is required and the FAR up-issued to reflect a satisfactory completion of a
full reassessment of the specified location(s).

9.5 Completion

Upon satisfactory completion of the work, the ExCB shall conduct an independent review of the
FAR to ensure that it covers the service facility location, the specified scope of selection of Ex
equipment and design of Ex installations service, and the type of installations and Ex types of
protection, where applicable. If the review is satisfactory the ExCB shall issue the FAR together
with an IECEx service facility certificate to the applicant, with a copy of each being retained by
the ExCB. The service facility and the ExCB shall each retain a set of the documentation
referred to in the certificate.

A FAR summary report is published on the IECEx website: www.iecex.com, containing at least
the service facility’s location, the type of service, any limitations, the type of protection of the
installations to be designed and equipment to be selected and the expiration date of the FAR.

9.6 Surveillance

The ExCB shall sign an agreement with the service facility to enable the ExCB to carry out, or
arrange for another body to carry out on its behalf, periodic surveillance of the service facility’s
quality management system (QMS) and quality plan(s) that shall include on-site assessments
at the service facility’s premises. The frequency of such surveillance, inspection and
assessment shall be set at a frequency of at least once every 12 months, unless the ExCB is
aware of concerns that may consider the service facility no longer capable of complying with
the IECEx Certified service facility scheme requirements and an increased frequency is deemed
appropriate.

9.7 Changes not covered by the FAR

If the service facility wishes to make any changes to the details, the FAR, where such changes
may compromise the continued capability to provide the Ex design and selection service listed
IECEx 03-2, Edition 2.0 © IEC:2023(E) – 13 –

on the FAR at the specified location(s), the service facility shall apply for an addendum to the
ExCB which granted the IECEx service facility certificate. This application shall describe the
changes and the measures adopted to ensure continuing conformity with IECEx requirements.

The ExCB shall arrange for such work as is necessary to be carried out to verify that the service
will still continue to conform to the scheme requirements after incorporating the change(s). The
ExCB shall issue a FAR, only when (continued) full conformity with IECEx Certified service
facilities scheme requirements has been established.

Upon satisfactory completion of the work, the ExCB shall review the FAR to ensure that it covers
the requested change(s). If the review is satisfactory the ExCB shall issue the FAR together
with a new version of the relevant certificate to the applicant, with a copy of each being retained
by the ExCB.

The Ex service facility and the ExCB shall each retain a set of the documentation referred to in
the IECEx ExSF certificate.

9.8 Ensuring conformity

The service facility has the responsibility to ensure that all designs of Ex installations and
selection of Ex equipment are in accordance with IECEx scheme and IEC 60079-14
requirements. Following such work, the service facility shall issue their clients with an IECEx
design and selection report that may bear the IECEx logo in accordance with IECEx Guide 01B.

The Ex service facility shall ensure that the IECEx logo or IECEx service facility certificate is
not subjected to misuse or misrepresentation. Such misuse or misrepresentation could lead to
suspension or withdrawal of the IECEx service facility certificate.

9.9 Documentation retained

In placing an application with an ExCB, the service facility authorizes the ExCB to keep, for
future reference, photographs and technical documentation of the service facility. Such
reference material shall be confidential.

9.10 Surcharges

An Ex service facility who is not located in an IECEx participating country and an applicant
acting on behalf of a service facility in such a country shall pay a contribution to the costs of
the IECEx scheme in the form of a surcharge for each application, the amount to be decided by
the ExMC and defined in IECEx OD 019. The surcharge is to be collected by the ExCB handling
the application, and remitted to the IECEx account.

9.11 Suspension or cancellation

An IECEx service facility certificate may be suspended or cancelled by the issuing ExCB in case
including but not limited to:

• there are outstanding fees payable to the ExCB;

• the certificate has been issued in error;
• the applicant specified on the service facility certificate requests voluntary suspension or
cancellation;
• where the certificate or IECEx logo is used in a potentially misleading manner;
• the Ex design and selection service no longer complies with IECEx requirements as
specified in these Rules of procedure and the supporting operational documents and ExSFC
decision sheets; or
 – 14 – IECEx 03-2, Edition 2.0 © IEC:2023(E)

• the service facility’s quality management system (QMS) and associated quality plan(s) no
longer provide adequate confidence that Ex installations and Ex equipment will be designed
and selected in accordance with IECEx requirements;
• Audits of the service facility activities have not been satisfactorily completed or not
conducted according to IECEx requirements for audit intervals.

The ExCB shall consult with the applicant to explain the reasons for a decision for certificate
suspension or cancellation and and ensure that they are aware that they are no longer
permitted to describe their services as “IECEx certified”. The communication shall also
advise the applicant that with immediate effect, they are required to update any publicly
available information (such as website and marketing material) to remove any association
between IECEx and their services. Suggested text for ExCB communications to the
applicant follows:

Further to ***, we can confirm that these certificates have now been suspended until further
notice/cancelled permanently.

[INSERT LIST OF CERTIFICATES HERE]

Please be aware that you are no longer permitted to describe the services specified in the above
certificates as “IECEx certified”. Please also ensure that you immediately update the following
to remove any association between IECEx and the services listed products in the affected
certificates:

a) Website
b) Marketing material (data sheets, sales brochures, sales catalogues), as necessary
c) Product labelling
d) Reports on services

Equipment subjected to services provided prior to the date of suspension/cancellation may be

described as being certified.

*** Replace with the appropriate text describing the reason for suspension or cancellation. The following examples may
be used:

Your recent request to suspend/cancel the certificate/s of conformity listed below

Recent information we have received regarding the certificate/s of conformity listed below,

Our recent correspondence of our intentions to suspend or cancel the certificate/s of conformity listed below

9.12 Notification of cancellation

When an IECEx service facility certificate is suspended or cancelled, the service facility
specified on the certificate shall no longer describe the Ex design and selection service, or their
organization, as "IECEx certified", and shall NOT use the IECEx logo on future IECEx design
and selection reports (until any suspension is removed).

The ExCB responsible for issuing the IECEx service facility certificate shall determine the effect
of Ex installations already designed prior to requesting that the IECEx Secretariat cancel or
suspend the certificate and specify to the IECEx Secretariat a date for effectivity of the
suspension or cancellation to be used in statements to the added to the amended status
certificate.

Suspended certificates shall have text similar to the following inserted in the scope of service
field of the certificate so that the certification status of work done before and after the
suspension is clear:

NOTE: This certificate was SUSPENDED on <date> at the request of the issuing IECEx
certification body (ExCB) following their consultation with the applicant. This suspension
does NOT affect equipment that was repaired or overhauled prior to the date of cancellation
IECEx 03-2, Edition 2.0 © IEC:2023(E) – 15 –

of the certificate and such equipment is not subject to withdrawal from the market or from
the installation site. Any comment may be directed to the issuing ExCB.
A suspension of a certificate may be removed (and the certificate restored to status = Current)
by the IECEx Secretariat on request from the issuing ExCB after the matters leading to the
original suspension have been resolved to the satisfaction of the issuing ExCB and all
supporting FARs have been up-issued where relevant to be current.

In the case of certificate restoration, a statement similar to the following shall be inserted in the
restored certificate’s scope of service field:

NOTE: This certificate was temporarily SUSPENDED over the period of <date #1 to
date#2> at the request of the issuing IECEx certification body (ExCB) following their
consultation with the applicant. This suspension does NOT affect equipment subject to
services provided prior to <date#1> or after <date#2>. Any equipment subjected to services
during the suspension period of <date#1> to <date#2> cannot be considered to be covered
by the IECEx certified services specified on this certificate. Any comment may be directed
to the applicant or ExCB.
Cancelled certificates shall have text similar to the following inserted in the scope of service
field of the certificate so that the certification status of work done before the cancellation is
clear:

NOTE: This certificate was CANCELLED on <date> at the request of the issuing IECEx
certification body (ExCB) following their consultation with the applicant. This cancellation
does NOT affect equipment that was repaired or overhauled prior to the date of cancellation
of the certificate and such equipment is not subject to withdrawal from the market or from
the installation site. Any comment may be directed to the issuing ExCB.
The cancellation of a certificate is permanent and hence cancelled certificates CANNOT be
restored to status = Current nor can they be up-issued. Therefore, ExCBs should note this when
considering certificate cancellations (refer to IECEx OD 011-1 for further guidance)

9.13 Compliance with rules

The applicant shall follow the rules of procedure of the ExCB and shall confirm readiness to
comply with all the relevant provisions regarding, for example, facility surveillance and payment
of fees.

9.14 Appeals

Should a service facility or applicant be refused the issuing of an IECEx FAR or IECEx service
facility certificate or be the subject of suspension or cancellation of an IECEx service facility
certificate and disagree with this decision, they may lodge an appeal according to IECEx 01-S.

10 Acceptance of certification bodies

10.1 Acceptance of certification bodies (new ExCBs) not currently participating in the
IECEx System’s Certified service facilities scheme

10.1.1 Conditions for acceptance

A new IECEx Certified service facility scheme certification body (“new certification body”) shall
be accepted as an ExCB in the IECEx Certified service facility scheme by the IECEx
management committee (ExMC) and given the right to issue IECEx service facility certificates
and FARs, under the following conditions:

• The applicant certification body shall be located in a participating country

• The applicant certification body shall be recognized at national level for operating Ex
certification or approval schemes for specified types of protection
 – 16 – IECEx 03-2, Edition 2.0 © IEC:2023(E)

• The competence of the applicant certification body to comply with these rules shall be
demonstrated by assessment. The general competence, efficiency, experience, familiarity
with the relevant standards and the types or concepts of protection included in those
standards and competence to carry out quality management system assessments as well
as compliance with ISO/IEC 17065 and ISO/IEC 17021 shall be assessed. Acceptance in
another IEC Conformity Assessment System or IECEx scheme or accreditation by a
recognized national accreditation body shall be taken into account. In those cases, the
ExMC shall decide upon the extent of the assessment that is necessary.

10.1.2 Application

The new candidate certification body, via the national member body of the IECEx System, shall
make an application for the acceptance of a certification body for the issuing of IECEx service
facility certificates.

The application shall be submitted to the IECEx Secretariat as a completed form (refer
ExMC/417*/Q) and shall be accompanied by a declaration as detailed in Annex A following in
this publication.

Existing ExCBs currently accepted in the IECEx Certified equipment scheme may apply for
acceptance as an ExCB in the IECEx Certified service facilities scheme by submission of an
application to the IECEx Secretariat using ExMC/417*/Q. IECEx OD 316-5, Section 3 provides
details on the process for responding to this type of application for acceptance.

10.1.3 Assessment

The new candidate certification body (ExCB) shall be assessed according to the IECEx
assessment procedures to determine that the conditions according to 10.1.1 are fulfilled. The
assessment may include witnessing by an IECEx assessor of an assessment of a service facility
conducted by the candidate ExCB.

Assessors approved by ExMC shall carry out the assessment as part of an IECEx assessment
team appointed by the IECEx Secretariat. The new candidate ExCB shall be given the names
and current appointments of the assessors proposed. All those IECEx assessors proposed shall
have a working knowledge of selection of Ex equipment and design of Ex installations practices.
New candidate ExCBs may object "for cause" (reasons to be stated) to the appointment of
specific assessors.

The new candidate ExCB to be assessed shall express its willingness to pay the professional
fees of the assessors prior to the assessment. The amount will be decided by the ExMC (and
normally documented in IECEx OD 019), and will include reasonable travelling and living
expenses arising from the assessment. An estimate of these expenses shall be provided to the
candidate in advance and agreed by the new candidate ExCB.

IECEx assessment teams shall report to the IECEx Executive Secretary who shall manage all
assessments, including the appointment of assessment teams from a list of assessors approved
by the ExMC, to ensure assessments are carried out in a timely manner and in accordance with
the requirements of the scheme.

10.1.4 Resolution of differences

During the assessment, the assessors shall prepare a draft report that shall be discussed with
the management of the candidate ExCB. Efforts should be made to resolve any differences of
opinion between the assessors and the candidate during this discussion.

10.1.5 Report to ExMC

The assessors shall submit to the IECEx Secretariat for initial review and then to the ExMC,
with a copy to the representatives of the candidate certification body, a confidential report
IECEx 03-2, Edition 2.0 © IEC:2023(E) – 17 –

containing their findings and recommendations, taking into account the declaration submitted
together with the application. The candidate may attend an ExMC meeting or submit written
comments in order to respond to enquiries regarding its application.

10.1.6 Acceptance

The ExMC shall decide upon the acceptance of the candidate certification body at an ExMC
meeting or by correspondence. In the latter case, the decision shall be reported to the next
meeting of the ExMC and recorded in the minutes.

10.1.7 Notification

If the decision of the ExMC is positive, the IECEx Secretariat shall inform the candidate
certification body in writing of their acceptance.

If the decision of the ExMC is negative, the Chair of the ExMC may, depending on the findings,
suggest to the candidate certification body:

e) to withdraw the application, or

f) to accept a new assessment.

10.1.8 Changes in application

Each ExCB as an applicant, candidate or accepted ExCB shall inform the IECEx Secretariat of
the ExMC about changes in the information given according to 10.1.2.

10.1.9 Extension of scope within the IECEx 03-2 scheme

When an ExCB already accepted in the IECEx Certified service facility scheme to issue
certificates and FARs to facilities providing services for the selection of Ex equipment and
design of Ex installations wishes to extend its scope of acceptance within the IECEx 03-2
scheme with respect to additional Ex protection techniques, an application shall be made to the
IECEx Secretariat. If the ExCB has been assessed within the last five years, the members of
the IECEx assessment team who assessed the ExCB may be invited to provide their comments
on the application during a review process that shall be conducted by the IECEx Secretariat in
consultation with the IECEx Executive.

The IECEx Executive shall decide whether the extension can be accepted on the basis of the
information provided or if a full or limited assessment will be needed. Decisions of the IECEx
Executive Officers shall be reported to the next ExMC meeting for endorsement.

10.1.10 Re-assessment

By means of re-assessment to the extent and frequency deemed necessary, the ExMC shall
verify whether ExCBs are still fulfilling the conditions of 10.1.1.

10.1.11 Withdrawal

An ExCB wishing to withdraw from the IECEx Certified service facilities scheme shall notify the
IECEx Secretariat via the member body of the IECEx Certified service facilities scheme at least
one year in advance and shall indicate the reason for the withdrawal and the date from which
the withdrawal will become effective.

10.1.12 Suspension

The acceptance of an ExCB may be suspended or withdrawn by the ExMC if the ExCB no longer
fulfils the conditions of 10.1.1 or if in the opinion of the ExMC, the ExCB hampers the aim,
operation or development of the IECEx Certified service facilities scheme, fails to take action
regarding misuse of IECEx service facility certificate, or violates these rules. Before such a
 – 18 – IECEx 03-2, Edition 2.0 © IEC:2023(E)

decision is made, the ExCB shall be given the opportunity to take corrective action over a period
of six months and state its own opinion on the matter.

A decision to suspend or withdraw the acceptance of an ExCB shall require agreement at a

meeting of the ExMC by a majority of at least four fifths of the total number of IECEx System
member bodies voting. Where dealt with at a meeting, members not attending that meeting shall
have the right to cast their vote in writing by registered mail, or email to the IECEx Secretariat
prior to the meeting.

Where, in the opinion of the IECEx Executive Secretary, a matter is considered so serious, for
example an item or action that might bring the reputation of IEC and IECEx into question, that
it requires immediate action, an ExCB may be suspended following consultation and support
with the IECEx Chair and at least two thirds of members of the IECEx Executive. The IECEx
Secretariat shall within one month, inform ExMC members of the decision with an indication of
the date of suspension.

In such cases, the IECEx Chair shall report, with supporting information, at the next ExMC
meeting for review of the decision to continue with suspension or withdrawal of the ExCB
acceptance; or if the decision needs to be taken before the next ExMC meeting, this matter
shall be dealt with via voting by correspondence by a majority of at least four fifths of the total
number of members voting.

In case of a suspension or a withdrawal, the certification body in question shall not be allowed
to claim any relationship with the IECEx Certified service facilities scheme.

11 IECEx publications

11.1 Types of publications

The publications of the IECEx System shall accommodate the relevant information regarding
Ex design and selection.

In addition, the ExMC through its Secretariat may issue operational documents to ensure the
common application of these Rules of Procedure by all ExCBs.

The IECEx Secretariat shall maintain a current list of all operational documents.

11.2 Information to be available

The following information shall be made readily available to the public:

• A current list of accepted ExCBs

• Service facilities holding IECEx service facility certificates
• IECEx service facility certificates

This and other relevant information may be made available on the IECEx website:
www.iecex.com.

11.3 IECEx Bulletin

The Bulletin detailed in IECEx 02 shall be amended to accommodate the relevant information
regarding the IECEx Certified service facilities scheme.

11.4 Source of information

The information published in the IECEx publications is based on information given by the
member bodies of the IECEx Certified service facilities scheme and ExCBs. Neither the IEC nor
IECEx 03-2, Edition 2.0 © IEC:2023(E) – 19 –

the IECEx Executive Secretary is therefore liable for the accuracy of that information.
Publication of commercial information shall be avoided.

12 Complaints

If there are complaints concerning the actions of an ExCB that the ExMC cannot resolve, the
ExMC or the complainant shall have the right to request the IEC Conformity Assessment Board
(CAB) for appropriate action in accordance with IECEx Basic Rules, IEC CA 01.
 – 20 – IECEx 03-2, Edition 2.0 © IEC:2023(E)

Annex A
(normative)

Declaration by a certification body applying to become

an Ex certification body for the IECEx Certified service facilities scheme
for selection of Ex equipment and design of Ex installations

The declaration by a certification body applying to become an Ex certification body (ExCB)

under the IECEx Certified service facilities scheme shall be a self-contained document including
the following information:

a) A description of the body which gives, in addition to an organization chart, information about
the legal status of the body, the address(es) at which it manages services and issues reports
b) The means by which the body will demonstrate compliance with ISO/IEC 17021 and
ISO/IEC 17065
c) The responsibilities at national level concerning certification and the schemes operated
d) The arrangements for appeal, the documents available for providing supporting information,
for example with regard to existing accreditation
e) The details of senior management and staff with competence in the validation of Ex service
facilities
f) A list of the type of selection of Ex equipment and design of Ex installations services for
which the certification body wishes to issue IECEx service facility certificates
g) A statement of the number of reports issued in the preceding two years for each type of
protection, under the IECEx Certified service facilities scheme or some other relevant
national or regional Ex certification scheme
h) A statement that the body will abide by the rules and use its best endeavours to assist in
the achievement of the aims and objectives of the IECEx System

___________