The Complete Guide to ATEX Portable Fan Heaters: Why EXHEAT MFH “The Bulldog” Leads the Market
Published 11 Dec 2025
ATEX Portable Fan Heaters
In hazardous area environments, temporary heating is essential for worker comfort, equipment protection, and successful maintenance execution in cold or humid conditions. Unlike standard industrial heaters, which are prohibited in explosive atmospheres, ATEX portable fan heaters are purposely engineered for ignition prevention, mechanical robustness, and continuous safe performance.
This guide explains ATEX zones, the limitations of conventional heaters, what defines a genuinely portable hazardous area heater, and why the EXHEAT MFH “The Bulldog” is regarded as the leading certified option for Zone 1/2 and 21/22 operations worldwide.
ATEX Zones Explained
ATEX-certified equipment is mandatory wherever explosive atmospheres—gas (Zone 1/2) or dust (Zone 21/22)—may be present during normal or abnormal operations.
| Zone | Description |
| Zone 1 | Explosive gas atmosphere is likely during normal operation |
| Zone 2 | Explosive gas atmosphere is unlikely but possible for short durations |
| Zone 21 | Combustible dust atmosphere likely during normal operation |
| Zone 22 | Combustible dust atmosphere unlikely but possible intermittently |
In these zones, heaters must comply with ATEX Directive 2014/34/EU and the EN/IEC 60079 standards, ensuring:
- No ignition-capable surface temperatures
- No exposed sparking components
- No static build-up
- Robust mechanical protection
- Certified temperature class (e.g., T3/T4)
Product Highlight: EXHEAT MFH “The Bulldog”
A fully ATEX & IECEx certified portable fan-assisted heater rated for
Zone 1, Zone 2, Zone 21 & Zone 22. Designed for
safety-critical heating in offshore platforms, FPSOs, refineries, chemical
plants, and hazardous industrial environments. The MFH delivers
high airflow, rugged stainless-steel construction, and reliable
performance in harsh conditions.
EXHEAT MFH – Portable ATEX Fan Heater for Hazardous Areas
Why Conventional Heaters Fail in Zone 1/2
Standard industrial heaters—space heaters, fan heaters, radiant heaters—are not engineered for explosive atmospheres. Their internal components routinely generate temperatures, sparks, or fault conditions that would be unsafe in ATEX zones.
Typical Failure Risks:
- Hot surfaces exceeding T-Class limits
- Unprotected mechanical switching components
- Arcing within motors or fans
- Poor ingress protection (moisture + dust)
- Non-anti-static housings
- No certified construction for hazardous areas
This is why only certified ATEX portable heaters may be deployed in these zones.
Hazardous Area Heater Safety Checklist
- ATEX/IECEx certificate available and verifiable
- Clear marking for temperature class (T3/T4)
- Certified motor, heating element and enclosure
- No exposed ignition sources
- Anti-static, robust, corrosion-resistant construction
- Ingress protection suitable for offshore environments
- Thermal cut-out and over-temperature protection
What Makes a Heater “Truly Portable”?
Many heaters marketed as “portable” fail this definition in operational contexts. True portability in hazardous areas requires:
- Single-person lift and easy manoeuvrability
- Integrated carry frame or handle
- Shock-resistant construction
- Durable feet/base for uneven industrial surfaces
- Optional ducting for directional heat delivery
- Easy maintenance and cable routing
The EXHEAT Bulldog was specifically designed around these requirements.
How the EXHEAT MFH “The Bulldog” Solves Common Pain Points
The Bulldog directly addresses the major issues reported by operators, maintenance teams and offshore personnel.
1. Lightweight, One-Person Handling
A compact frame and low mass allow single-person lifting—even on offshore platforms where space is limited.
2. Exceptional Durability
- Stainless steel frame
- Impact-resistant design
- Corrosion resistance for marine environments
3. High Airflow + Fast Temperature Rise
Engineered for airflow optimisation to increase heating efficiency and comfort.
4. Anti-Static Ducting Options
Direct heat exactly where needed—habitats, confined spaces, tank entries and composite repair sites.
5. T-Class Compliance (T3/T4)
Suitable for a wide range of explosive atmospheres without exceeding safe surface temperatures.
ATEX PORTABLE HEATER Typical Applications
- Offshore platforms
- Refineries & petrochemical facilities
- Maintenance habitats
- Confined space entries
- Tank coating & composite repairs
- Shutdowns & turnarounds (TAR)
- Pipeline or vessel heating
- Container & temporary workspace heating
Why The Bulldog Leads the Market
- Certified for all hazardous zones (1, 2, 21, 22)
- High performance with low operator fatigue
- Offshore-proven durability
- Reliable in harsh weather (sub-zero capable)
- Designed for real-world maintenance workflows
- Supported by T&D’s technical team and inventory
Request a Quote or Technical Support
Contact Thorne & Derrick to ensure your heating solution meets safety standards and operational requirements.
Conclusion & Next Steps
The EXHEAT MFH “The Bulldog” sets the standard for ATEX portable heating: lightweight, rugged, powerful and fully certified for hazardous environments. For any operator working in explosive atmospheres, it represents a safe, dependable and cost-effective heating solution.
