Gas and vapours (Ex01 – Ex04)

Gas and vapours (Ex01 – Ex04)

The CompEx Ex01-Ex04 Gas and vapours qualification has been developed for electrical and instrument technicians working in hazardous locations where gases or vapours can form explosive atmospheres.

Attendees

This qualification is suitable for practicing electrical or instrument technicians who are involved in installing, inspecting and maintaining certified Ex electrical equipment in locations where gases and vapours can potentially create a hazardous area.

Entry requirements

  • Practicing competent electrical technicians
  • Practicing competent instrument technicians
  • Electrical/instrument engineers with previous practical experience
  • Prior CompEx certification supported by employer sponsored letter.

Duration

Approximately 5 days, however; some international centres offer a 6-day course to further support candidates where English is not their first language.

Delivery

The 5-day course includes:

  • 3 days of guided learning (theoretical 15-20 hours, practical 4-6 hours)
  • 2 days of assessment

Understanding which CompEx certification level matches your job role and responsibilities is essential before enrolling in training. The Gas and Vapours Ex01-Ex04 qualification represents the intermediate to advanced level for electrical operatives, building upon foundational knowledge to deliver comprehensive hazardous area competency. For a complete overview of how Ex01-Ex04 fits within the broader CompEx framework, explore our guide on understanding the different levels of CompEx training and certification to ensure you select the appropriate pathway for your career goals.

This course has been developed in consultation with industry to ensure the core competence of existing and potential workers who operate in these environments.

The qualification consists of four units, which cover the minimum requirements for safe working practices in hazardous locations.

Candidates will learn about the safety considerations that should be applied to work areas that contain potentially explosive or flammable atmospheres and the factors that are used to classify their location.

The course includes instruction on how to read hazardous area certification, labelling and documentation, and also informs candidates about the main protection concepts, categories and levels that are applied to certified Ex electrical equipment.

Successful candidates will demonstrate the knowledge and skills to meet the requirements highlighted in the IEC 60079 series of standards and the relevant national standards and directives. This qualification focuses on the minimum specifications identified in IEC60079:0, IEC60079:10.1, IEC60079:14 and IEC60079:17.

Key learning objectives

Candidates that successfully complete the Ex01-Ex04 qualification will be able to:

  • Identify the correct national regulations, directives, and IEC standards which relate to hazardous areas.
  • Demonstrate a basic knowledge of the main protection concepts, categories and protection levels that apply to equipment certified for use in hazardous areas.
  • Recognise the elements that make up a hazardous atmosphere and the precautions required.
  • Demonstrate an underpinning knowledge of how certified Ex electrical equipment including Ex ‘d’, ‘e’, ‘n’, ‘p’, ‘m’, ‘o’, ‘q’, ‘s’, Intrinsic Safety (IS) maintains its protection concept and how it is to be selected, installed, inspected and maintained.
  • Identify the correct test value readings for IS and non-IS installations and equipment.

Qualification details

Candidates who are successful in both the theory and practical assessments will receive a CompEx Certificate in Core Competence.

Assessment:

Assessment is undertaken using both practical assessments and an online examination that covers the four separate CompEx units.

Online exam

Candidates must undertake a multiple-choice online examination that consists of 60 questions answered over 1.5 hours.

Practical assessment:

Candidates are required to undertake four practical assessments (one per unit):
  • Ex01 – 3 hours 45 minutes
  • Ex02 – 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Ex03 – 3 hours
  • Ex04 – 1 hour 15 minutes

Faqs

What is CompEx Gas and Vapours Ex01-Ex04 certification?

CompEx Gas and Vapours Ex01-Ex04 is the core certification program for professionals working with electrical equipment in explosive gas and vapor atmospheres. This comprehensive course covers installation, inspection, maintenance, and repair of electrical apparatus in hazardous areas where flammable gases, vapors, or mists are present. The certification is essential for oil and gas, petrochemical, pharmaceutical, and chemical processing industries requiring competent personnel to ensure safety and regulatory compliance.

What are the individual modules Ex01, Ex02, Ex03, and Ex04?

Ex01 covers core competencies including explosive atmosphere fundamentals, area classification, and equipment selection. Ex02 focuses on installation of certified electrical equipment in hazardous areas with proper techniques and standards. Ex03 addresses inspection and maintenance procedures ensuring ongoing equipment integrity and safety. Ex04 involves detailed overhaul, repair, and recertification of electrical apparatus. Together, these modules provide comprehensive competency from basic understanding through advanced repair capabilities in gas and vapor environments.

How long does CompEx Ex01-Ex04 training take to complete?

CompEx Gas and Vapours Ex01-Ex04 training typically requires 4-5 days of intensive instruction combining theoretical classroom sessions with extensive hands-on practical training. The course includes equipment demonstrations, cable termination practice, flameproof joint assembly, increased safety connections, purged enclosure systems, and intrinsic safety principles. Duration may vary depending on training provider, participant experience levels, and whether all four modules are taken consecutively or separately.

What protection concepts are covered in Ex01-Ex04 training?

CompEx Ex01-Ex04 training covers major protection concepts including Flameproof (Ex ‘d’) enclosures preventing ignition propagation, Increased Safety (Ex ‘e’) preventing sparks and hot surfaces, Intrinsic Safety (Ex ‘i’) limiting electrical energy, Pressurization/Purging (Ex ‘p’) excluding hazardous atmospheres, Encapsulation (Ex ‘m’), Oil Immersion (Ex ‘o’), Powder Filling (Ex ‘q’), and Type ‘n’ protection. Students learn selection criteria, installation requirements, inspection techniques, and maintenance procedures for each protection method.

What industries require CompEx Ex01-Ex04 certification?

Industries requiring CompEx Ex01-Ex04 certification include upstream and downstream oil and gas operations, offshore platforms and FPSOs, refineries and petrochemical complexes, LNG and gas processing facilities, chemical manufacturing plants, pharmaceutical production with solvent handling, paint and coating manufacturing, aviation fuel storage and handling, distilleries and breweries, wastewater treatment plants with methane generation, and any facility where flammable gases or vapors create explosive atmosphere risks requiring certified electrical personnel.

What does the CompEx Ex01-Ex04 examination include?

The CompEx Ex01-Ex04 examination comprises both theoretical and practical assessments. The theory exam tests knowledge of explosive atmospheres, zone classification systems, equipment standards (ATEX, IECEx), protection methods, and regulatory requirements through multiple-choice and written questions. The practical assessment evaluates hands-on competency in cable terminations, flameproof joint assembly, torque application, equipment inspection, certification verification, and proper tool usage. Both components must be passed successfully for full certification.

Do I need prior electrical qualifications for Ex01-Ex04 training?

While formal electrical qualifications are highly beneficial, CompEx Ex01-Ex04 training typically requires candidates to have electrical or instrumentation engineering backgrounds, technical diplomas, or substantial practical experience working with electrical systems. Understanding basic electrical principles, circuits, and equipment is essential for successfully comprehending hazardous area concepts. Some training providers may accept candidates with limited electrical background for Ex01 only, recommending CompEx Foundation (ExF) as preliminary preparation.

How much does CompEx Gas and Vapours Ex01-Ex04 certification cost?

CompEx Ex01-Ex04 certification costs vary depending on training location, provider, course duration, and what’s included in the package such as examination fees, study materials, and certification registration. As a comprehensive professional qualification with extensive practical components, Ex01-Ex04 represents a significant investment in career development. Contact authorized training centers for current pricing, available payment plans, corporate group discounts, and employer sponsorship options. Many companies fund employee certification as essential safety compliance.

Is CompEx Ex01-Ex04 recognized internationally?

Yes, CompEx Gas and Vapours Ex01-Ex04 certification is internationally recognized across global oil and gas, petrochemical, and process industries. The certification aligns with IEC standards and is accepted in UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, Kuwait, Bahrain, UK, Europe, Asia, Australia, and beyond. CompEx credentials are specifically valued by major operators like Shell, ExxonMobil, Saudi Aramco, BP, Total, and international EPC contractors, making it highly portable for professionals seeking international career opportunities.

Where can I take CompEx Ex01-Ex04 training?

CompEx Gas and Vapours Ex01-Ex04 training is available through authorized CompEx training providers worldwide. Extrainings offers comprehensive Ex01-Ex04 courses across multiple locations in UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, India, and other regions with state-of-the-art training facilities, experienced instructors holding industry certifications, hands-on equipment for practical training, and flexible scheduling including corporate on-site programs. Contact authorized centers for upcoming course dates, enrollment procedures, and customized training solutions.

Candidates have been certified for CompEx 01 - 06 across all these Countries

Make an enquiry

If you would like to make an enquiry about the CompEx Scheme or require further information about any of our qualifications, please contact us by completing our enquiry form.

FAQ

CompEx certification is a globally recognized qualification for professionals working in explosive atmospheres. The Ex01–Ex04 modules specifically cover gas and vapour hazardous environments, training individuals in the safe installation, maintenance, and inspection of electrical and instrumentation equipment. For companies like Ex Certifications & Inspection Services, CompEx certification ensures that our technicians meet international safety standards, providing reliable and safe services in high-risk environments.

To obtain CompEx Ex01–Ex04 certification, individuals must complete an accredited course, followed by practical assessments. Ex Certifications & Inspection Services in the UAE offers comprehensive training in line with CompEx standards, providing professionals with the skills and knowledge required for working safely in explosive atmospheres. Our training programs ensure participants meet industry standards, qualifying them for work in hazardous locations.

CompEx Ex01–Ex04 covers four essential modules: Ex01 focuses on preparation and installation of Ex equipment; Ex02 covers the inspection and maintenance; Ex03 is for preparing and installing equipment for explosive vapour atmospheres; and Ex04 pertains to inspection and maintenance in these environments. Ex Certifications & Inspection Services provides in-depth training across these modules to ensure comprehensive, hands-on learning for professionals.

Hazardous location training equips electrical and instrument technicians with critical skills to prevent accidents in environments with explosive gases or vapours. Proper training reduces risks and ensures compliance with safety standards. Ex Certifications & Inspection Services emphasizes this training, preparing technicians to manage hazardous locations safely and effectively, which is crucial for high-risk industries such as oil and gas.

In explosive atmospheres, electrical technicians are responsible for the safe installation, maintenance, and inspection of Ex-certified equipment. They ensure all devices are compliant with safety standards and functioning safely. Ex Certifications & Inspection Services trains technicians to follow strict protocols, ensuring their readiness to handle Ex equipment and reduce potential hazards in environments with explosive gas or vapour.

Ex01–Ex04 certification is specifically designed for professionals working in gas and vapour hazardous areas, providing training in preparation, installation, inspection, and maintenance of Ex equipment. This certification helps prevent accidents by ensuring that technicians are fully qualified to handle explosive atmospheres. Ex Certifications & Inspection Services offers this certification, supporting industries in meeting international safety standards in these high-risk zones.

Ex equipment should be inspected and maintained periodically based on risk assessment and manufacturer recommendations. Regular inspections help identify potential hazards early and ensure compliance with safety standards. Ex Certifications & Inspection Services offers routine inspection and maintenance services for Ex equipment, ensuring it remains safe and operational, especially in high-risk gas and vapour zones.

In the UAE, Ex Certifications & Inspection Services provides CompEx Ex01–Ex04 training, offering courses tailored to meet the region’s high safety standards. Our training center is fully equipped to deliver both theoretical and practical modules, preparing professionals for work in explosive atmospheres. For those in India, various certified training centers also offer this essential training for safe handling of Ex equipment.

CompEx certification is valid for five years. Ex Certification & Inspection Services LLC offers refresher courses to renew certification, covering updated safety standards, regulations, and best practices. The refresher includes the latest techniques in risk assessment and equipment maintenance, ensuring certified professionals are up-to-date in explosive atmospheres.

Ex Certification & Inspection Services LLC is an accredited CompEx training center staffed by experienced instructors familiar with industry standards. We have a strong track record of certification success and hands-on facilities that provide practical learning experiences. For trusted CompEx training, our center ensures you receive the best preparation for handling hazardous environments.

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