Skip to content

Use case

ATEX Inspection to IEC 60079-17, Done at the Equipment

Run the full IEC 60079-17 inspection at the equipment on an explosion-proof iPad Pro 11", from Ex register lookup to finished report. Checklists, nameplate photos and findings are recorded in one pass, and faults reach maintenance the same day without re-keying.

Technician checking an Ex enclosure nameplate with an explosion-proof iPhone in Zone 1
Ex inspector carrying out an ATEX inspection on a junction box with an explosion-proof iPad Pro

Every inspection grade, recorded the same way

Visual, close and detailed inspections each get their own checklist in the inspection app, so every inspector records equipment identity, marking, zone suitability and faults in the same format. Initial, periodic and sample inspections build one history per asset, which makes interval decisions easier to justify, including when IEC 60079-17 calls for expert advice beyond three years.

Ex register and equipment certificate opened on an iPad in a Zone 1 area

Bring the Ex register to the equipment

Inspectors open the Ex register entry at the asset by scanning its QR code or barcode with the iPad camera. In an inspection app such as Inspectio, the certificate, EPL, gas group, temperature class and zone classification appear together. On a chemical plant with thousands of tagged items, printed register extracts stay in the office.

Photo of an Ex equipment nameplate captured during an IEC 60079-17 inspection

Checklist, photos and findings in one pass

The inspector completes the grade's checklist, photos and dictated notes at the equipment in one pass. The iPad Pro 12MP Wide camera adds Smart HDR detail on dim nameplates and records 4K video at 60 fps, where a typical intrinsically safe handset stops at 1080p. Our ATEX label guide covers what to capture.

ATEX inspection report with faults and photos generated on an iPad

Every fault becomes a work order on the spot

Each fault becomes a corrective work order with priority, photos and location attached, synced to maintenance. Time-stamped entries form the audit trail for the verification dossier. At a fuel terminal, a damaged gland logged at the loading rack goes straight to the planner, the kind of closed loop a connected worker program is built on.

Explosion-proof iPad Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max used for Ex equipment inspection

The iPad for the checklist, the iPhone for tight spots

Use the iPad Pro 11" for checklist-heavy rounds and the register, and the iPhone 17 Pro Max where space or reach is tight. One-handed, its 8x optical-quality telephoto brings high-mounted nameplates within reading range, where a typical intrinsically safe handset has no optical zoom. The same kit covers remote expert support from Zone 1.

Planning your next inspection campaign? The explosion-proof iPad Pro 11" carries the Ex register, checklists and reports to every asset, and our Inspectio partnership supplies the inspection software. Get a quote for the devices your inspectors need.

Get a quote

ATEX inspection FAQs

What is IEC 60079-17?

IEC 60079-17 is the international standard for inspecting and maintaining electrical installations in explosive atmospheres. It defines the inspection grades, types and records that show Ex equipment remains fit for its zone.

What are the grades of inspection in IEC 60079-17?

The grades are visual, close and detailed. Visual and close inspections find defects from outside the enclosure, while a detailed inspection opens it and uses tools and test equipment.

How often do ATEX inspections need to be carried out?

Intervals come from a documented assessment of factors such as corrosion, vibration and past findings. IEC 60079-17 calls for expert advice before periodic intervals exceed three years.

Can you use an iPad for Ex inspections in Zone 1?

Yes, inside an explosion-proof case rated for Zone 1, such as the Xshielder case for the iPad Pro 11". Sites that restrict devices can lock it down to the camera and approved apps.

What should an Ex inspection checklist include?

Equipment identity, marking against the zone, EPL, gas group and temperature class, plus enclosure, gaskets, cable entries, earthing and unauthorized modifications. The inspection grade sets the depth of each check.