Navman Wireless's vehicle tracking device, the Qube, has been declared suitable for installation in vehicles transporting hazardous materials or operating in "potentially explosive atmospheres" – a UK first for the telematics industry.
The Qube meets the Essential Health and Safety Requirements for Category 3G of the ATEX directive, the fundamental legal requirement relating to the safety, health and welfare of workers in areas where explosive atmospheres may occur.
"This is landmark certification for Navman Wireless and UK vehicle tracking," said Tony Neill, Executive Vice President, Navman Wireless.
"It has particular significance for companies operating within the petrochem industry, which have been largely excluded from enjoying the security and business benefits of telematics and fleet management technologies.
"Vehicle and Operator Services Agency (VOSA) has recommended that petrochem companies operate vehicle tracking but until now, no system has been shown to meet the required safety standards."
Furthermore, Navman Wireless engineers are qualified to install the technology in accordance with all the necessary conditions for its safe use.
Certification has been granted by Baseefa, the world-renowned certification body, principally concerned with electrical and mechanical equipment.
Baseefa Managing Director, Ron Sinclair, said: "Gaining ATEX Certification for one of their products demonstrates the company's commitment to safety and opens up additional market opportunities.
"The fact that this is an industry first for vehicle tracking makes it all the more valuable."
Navman Wireless is the UK's largest manufacturer of vehicle tracking equipment that allows businesses to locate, track, monitor and communicate with their fleet anywhere at anytime to improve security and efficiency, increase productivity and reduce costs. It has offices across the world and supplies more than 5,000 companies nationwide.