ATEX-Certified & Rugged Technology for the Oil, Chemical and Energy Sectors

The Challenge of Computing in Hazardous Environments

The oil and gas, chemical processing and energy sectors operate under conditions that would destroy conventional hardware within days. Explosive atmospheres, extreme temperatures, exposure to corrosive chemicals, and the constant risk of physical impact mean that standard consumer or even business-grade devices simply aren't fit for purpose.

For field engineers, plant operators and site managers working in these environments, reliable access to data, documentation and communication tools is not a luxury — it is a safety-critical requirement. The hardware they carry must be certified, durable and dependable.

What Is ATEX Certification and Why Does It Matter?

ATEX (from the French Atmosphères Explosibles) is the European directive governing equipment used in potentially explosive atmospheres. In the UK, the equivalent framework is UKEX, which broadly mirrors ATEX standards post-Brexit. For businesses operating in oil refineries, chemical plants, offshore platforms or gas distribution networks, deploying non-certified devices in Zone 1 or Zone 2 hazardous areas is not just inadvisable — it can be illegal and deeply dangerous.

ATEX and IECEx certification ensures that a device has been independently assessed and confirmed safe for use where flammable gases, vapours or dusts may be present. Choosing certified hardware protects your workforce, your site and your compliance record.

The BGA10ST EX: Purpose-Built for Hazardous Zones

BOSH Group supplies the BGA10ST EX, a rugged, ATEX/IECEx-certified 10.1" tablet designed specifically for these demanding conditions. Powered by an Octa Core MTK8781 processor, equipped with 8 GB RAM, and backed by a 10,000 mAh battery, it is engineered to keep workers productive throughout long shifts without requiring a return to safe areas for charging or data access.

Key advantages for energy and chemical sector operators include:

• ATEX and IECEx certification — independently verified safe for use in hazardous atmospheres
• Rugged construction — resistant to drops, dust, moisture and the physical stresses of industrial environments
• 10.1" display — large enough to review schematics, inspection reports and live data feeds in the field
• Octa Core processing power — capable of running industrial software, data capture applications and real-time communication tools without lag

Rugged Tablets Beyond the Hazardous Zone

Not every part of an energy or chemical facility falls within a classified hazardous area, but the demands on hardware remain high throughout. Warehouses, loading bays, maintenance workshops and outdoor plant areas all expose devices to vibration, dust, liquid ingress and accidental drops.

For these environments, BOSH Group also offers the BG-B116Z-P996, a rugged 10.95" Android 16 tablet powered by an Octa Core processor and equipped with a substantial 20,000 mAh battery. This device is built for demanding conditions and supports the kind of extended field use that energy sector operations require — without the need for frequent recharging or concerns about device fragility.

Choosing the Right Device for Your Site

Selecting the appropriate hardware for oil, chemical and energy operations comes down to a clear assessment of your environment:

• Classified hazardous zone (ATEX/IECEx required)? → The BGA10ST EX is the correct choice.
• Demanding but non-classified environment? → The BG-B116Z-P996 offers rugged reliability with a larger screen and exceptional battery life.

Speak to BOSH Group About Your Requirements

BOSH Group Ltd works directly with businesses across the UK and France to specify and supply hardware that is genuinely fit for purpose. We understand that in the energy and chemical sectors, the wrong device choice carries real consequences.

Contact our team to discuss your site requirements, compliance considerations and the most appropriate rugged or ATEX-certified solution for your operation.