Connected Technology Talks Podcast Episode 14 - Changes to IEC 60079-14

In this episode of Connected Technology Talks, Andy Smith from Element and Jon Hichens from insightEx dive into the newly updated IEC 60079‑14 standard, exploring its major changes and what they mean for manufacturers, designers, and installers. They also introduce a new training partnership designed to raise industry competence and address the growing skills shortage in explosive atmospheres (Ex) manufacturing. 

 

Why listen to this podcast?

This episode offers practical, expert-driven insight for anyone working with Ex equipment, hazardous area products, or compliance-critical engineering processes:

• Solve the growing skills shortage by understanding why the industry can no longer rely on a single 'Ex expert' and how knowledge gaps create serious operational risks. 
• Discover how to build team-wide competence in Ex compliance, with new training designed by Element and insightEx specifically for the realities of hazardous area manufacturing
• Understand the full impact of the new IEC 60079‑14 edition, which has been completely restructured to give equal importance to design, selection, installation and initial inspection.
• Discover the new rules for EXd cable and gland selection, including why cable and gland can no longer be treated separately and how this affects real projects.
• Get clear guidance on the mandatory Annex C pressure test, what it proves, who should conduct it, and how it changes long-established industry practices.
• Hear real-world examples of common mistakes caused by incomplete knowledge, outdated assumptions or single‑point‑of‑failure expertise.
• Understand why early engagement is essential, especially for manufacturers with only one or two Ex products who may not be aware of compliance risks until it’s too late.
• Learn how Element and insightEx will support industry transition, with upcoming guidance, on‑site training and competence‑building content. 

 

Key topics covered in this podcast:

• What major changes have been introduced in the new IEC 60079‑14 edition? 
• How has the standard’s scope expanded beyond installation to include design, selection and initial inspection? 

• How should EXd cables and cable glands now be selected together as a single system? 

• What is the Annex C pressure test and when is it required? 

• Who is responsible for conducting the cable tests - manufacturers, engineering teams, or third‑party labs? 

• What are the real-world risks of poor cable or gland selection, and how can they lead to dangerous failures? 

• How can manufacturers avoid costly late‑stage redesigns by engaging earlier in the process?
• What training, guidance and support will Element and insightEx provide to help teams adapt to the new standard? 

Listen to the podcast below.