What is a QAN/QAR?

While very similar the end result is a bit different.

QAN – Quality Assurance Notification

This process is in accordance with the ATEX Directive for the EU and UK for equipment used in zones 1 and 0 (also 21 and 20). It is a mandatory Quality Assurance System for companies that apply for an ATEX EU-Type examination. To be permitted to sell ATEX products on the European market, manufacturers must obtain a Quality Assurance Notification (QAN) issued by a Notified Body

QAR – Quality Assurance Registration

This process is in accordance with IECEx requirements. This too is a mandatory Quality Assurance (Manufacturing) System for companies that apply for an IECEx Certificate of Conformity.

Many of the requirements for ISO 9001 and EN 80079-34 overlap, although EN 80079-34 is more stringent. We refer to this as ISO 9001 on steroids. A manufacturer does not have to have an ISO 9001 Registration in place. Be very clear that this is not a requirement. In reality, by setting up the BS EN ISO/IEC 80079-34 system you will meet the requirements of ISO 9001.

The IECEx QAR audit scheme does not differ much from the ATEX QAN audit scheme. We do recommend that manufacturers consider the benefits of a combined IECEx and ATEX audit as a time- and cost-effective option. The audit cycle for a QAN and QAR is typically 3 years and surveillance must occur every 12-18 months.