Hydrogen is increasingly recognized as an important source of alternative energy. As demand for hydrogen fueling infrastructure grows, validating the safety and reliability of these systems is important. CSA Group is now offering IECEx certification services for hydrogen dispensing equipment, helping manufacturers demonstrate compliance with applicable international safety standards and gain market access.

Why IECEx Certification Matters

For manufacturers, obtaining IECEx certification demonstrates that their hydrogen dispensing equipment meets relevant safety requirements for hazardous locations (HazLoc). Furthermore, achieving IECEx certification provides:

  • Compliance with IECEx OD 290: IECEx OD 290 (Operational Document 290) provides harmonized procedures for the certification of equipment, components, and systems associated with the production, dispensing, and use of gaseous hydrogen in hazardous locations. It is part of the IECEx system, which confirms that products meet internationally recognized safety and performance standards for explosive atmospheres.
  • Global Market Access: IECEx certification is widely recognized across multiple regions and regulatory environments, reducing the need for multiple national certifications.
  • Verification of Safety: Helps reduce the risks of explosions in environments with flammable gases or vapors by confirming proper ignition protection and leak prevention.
  • Increased Reliability – Helps validate consistent performance in hydrogen dispensing solutions by verifying durability, pressure containment, and operational efficiency.

Expanded Certification Scope

CSA Group is now accredited to certify  hydrogen dispensing equipment and components, including:

  • Hydrogen dispensers
  • Valves and fittings
  • Hoses and connectors
  • Compressors and pumps
  • Sensors and monitoring systems

Accredited Testing & Certification Services for Hydrogen Dispensing Equipment

CSA Group provides manufacturers with the necessary validation to meet globally recognized safety standards, including:

  • IECEx OD 290 – Harmonized procedures for certification of hydrogen equipment
  • ISO 19880-1:2020 – Gaseous hydrogen fueling stations – General requirements, covering station layout, dispenser performance, and pressure management.
  • ISO 19880-3:2018 – Valves, specifying requirements for shut-off valves, pressure relief mechanisms, and component compatibility.
  • ISO 19880-5:2019 – Dispenser hoses and hose assemblies, validating resistance to hydrogen embrittlement and mechanical stress.
  • ISO 17268:2020 – Land vehicle refueling connection devices, addressing safety interlocks and gas-tight sealing properties.

The IECEx Certification Process

To make the intricate compliance process simpler, CSA Group offers a structured, step-by-step approach to help manufactures verify compliance:

  1. Pre-Assessment & Guidance: Identify applicable IECEx requirements for your equipment and review initial design considerations to help mitigate potential compliance issues.
  2. Testing & Evaluation: Conduct assessments, including high-pressure endurance testing, leak detection analysis, and ignition source elimination.
  3. Factory Audits: Inspect manufacturing facilities for ongoing compliance, validating repeatable production quality and adherence to safety requirements.
  4. Certification & Listing: Issue IECEx certification and list the product in the IECEx database, granting global recognition of safety compliance.
  5. Ongoing Compliance & Recertification: Provide continued support to maintain certification validity, including periodic inspections and compliance updates in response to evolving standards.
Supporting the Hydrogen Economy

As the hydrogen sector continues to grow, compliance with IECEx standards confirms that hydrogen dispensing systems remain safe, reliable, and ready for commercial deployment. CSA Group’s extensive expertise in HazLoc testing makes us a trusted partner in helping manufacturers meet applicable safety requirements.

Contact Us

Interested in learning more about our IECEx certification services for hydrogen dispensing equipment? 

Contact CSA Group today to discuss how we can support your certification needs.