ATEX radio communications: DMR and TETRA networks

Introduction

In the oil and gas industry, where potentially explosive atmospheres are a constant hazard, maintaining safe and reliable communications is essential. Facilities depend on ATEX-certified radio communication systems — in particular DMR (Digital Mobile Radio) and TETRA (Terrestrial Trunked Radio) networks. This article explains how these technologies deliver safety and operational efficiency in hazardous environments.

The ATEX directive: safety in hazardous environments

ATEX, from "ATmosphères EXplosibles", covers two EU directives: one for manufacturers (2014/34/EU) and one for end users (1999/92/EC). Both directives set requirements for equipment and protective systems intended for use in potentially explosive atmospheres.

ATEX aligns with international standards such as IECEx (International Electrotechnical Commission System for Certification to Standards Relating to Equipment for Use in Explosive Atmospheres). ATEX is mandatory within the EU, while IECEx is recognized globally, giving explosion-protection requirements a consistent technical baseline across regions.

Hazards in dangerous environments

Oil and gas facilities present specific risks:

• explosive gas mixtures
• combustible dusts
• elevated temperatures
• corrosive substances

Under these conditions, a single spark from electronic equipment can trigger an explosion. ATEX-certified radios are therefore indispensable.

ATEX zone classification

The directive classifies areas by the likelihood of an explosive atmosphere forming. The zone determines the equipment category that may be used:

ATEX-certified DMR and TETRA radios

DMR ATEX and TETRA ATEX radios are designed to operate safely in these environments. They incorporate multiple protective measures:

• intrinsically safe electronic circuits
• sealed enclosures
• materials that prevent static electricity build-up
• temperature-controlled components

These protections ensure the radio cannot become an ignition source, even in the presence of flammable gases or dusts.

Advantages of ATEX radio terminals and networks

• Improved safety: ATEX radios minimize the risk of equipment-triggered explosions, protecting both personnel and plant.
• Regulatory compliance: ATEX-certified equipment satisfies EU directive requirements and aligns with international standards such as IECEx.
• Operational efficiency: reliable communications across all areas of a facility — including hazardous zones — improves coordination and productivity.
• Ruggedness: ATEX radios are built to withstand demanding industrial environments, reducing maintenance requirements and unplanned downtime.
• Versatility: modern ATEX radios support multiple communication modes, from basic voice calls to data transmission.

DMR and TETRA networks in ATEX environments

Both DMR and TETRA provide reliable radio network solutions for the oil and gas sector, each with distinct strengths.

DMR ATEX radios

DMR (Digital Mobile Radio) is a digital radio standard offering:

• higher audio quality than analog systems
• extended battery life
• efficient spectrum use (two voice channels within a 12.5 kHz channel)
• data transmission capability

DMR ATEX radios combine these advantages with intrinsic safety. They are particularly suited to small- and medium-scale operations, or as part of a broader communication network.

TETRA ATEX radios

TETRA (Terrestrial Trunked Radio) is a more advanced digital trunked radio system offering:

• high capacity and spectral efficiency
• built-in encryption and advanced security features
• flexible data transmission
• extended coverage

TETRA ATEX radios are the standard choice for large-scale operations requiring continuous communications across wide areas. They are commonly deployed in oil and gas radio networks covering multiple sites or offshore platforms.

DMR or TETRA: which to choose

Deploying an ATEX radio solution

Before building an ATEX radio network, assess the following:

1. Zone classification: identify the ATEX zones present in the facility (0, 1, 2 for gases; 20, 21, 22 for dusts) and select radios certified for the corresponding zones.
2. Network design: plan coverage across all areas, including potential shadow zones in complex industrial structures.
3. Integration: evaluate how the ATEX radio system will integrate with other communication and safety systems on site.
4. Training: ensure all personnel are trained in the use and correct maintenance of ATEX radio equipment.
5. Maintenance: establish a scheduled maintenance program to sustain network safety and performance over time.

The future of ATEX radio communications

As Industry 4.0 adoption increases, ATEX-certified radio systems will incorporate more advanced capabilities:

• IoT connectivity for real-time monitoring and data collection
• more precise positioning systems for personnel tracking
• integration with augmented reality for remote assistance
• AI-based noise suppression for clearer communications in noisy industrial environments

Conclusion

In the demanding and potentially hazardous environments of the oil and gas industry, ATEX-certified DMR and TETRA radio networks are more than a regulatory requirement — they are a core component of operational safety and efficiency. By providing reliable communications even in classified areas, these systems enable continuous coordination, rapid incident response, and higher productivity.

From a small refinery to an offshore platform, the right ATEX radio solution improves both safety and operations: DMR ATEX terminals for smaller-scale requirements, TETRA ATEX networks for large-scale deployments — there is a configuration for every facility.