CompEx certificates are valid for 5 years from the date of issue. After 5 years you must renew by completing a reassessment through an accredited CompEx assessment centre. This ensures that your knowledge and practical competency remain current as standards evolve.
Why Does CompEx Need Renewing?
The IEC 60079 series of standards is regularly revised. Renewal ensures that electricians are working to the current version of the standards, not outdated requirements. The 5-year renewal cycle also reflects the reality that hazardous area inspection and installation skills require regular practical use to remain sharp.
What Does Renewal Involve?
CompEx renewal typically involves a reassessment of both the written knowledge and practical competency. The reassessment covers the same scope as the original assessment but may be condensed for experienced practitioners. Your assessment centre will advise on the specific requirements.
Planning Your Renewal
Most operators require a current (in-date) CompEx certificate as a condition of site access. Plan your renewal well in advance of your expiry date — assessment centre availability can be limited, particularly in peak periods. Many experienced practitioners use the renewal period as an opportunity to refresh their knowledge of any standards that have been updated since their last assessment.
Even with years of experience, the written assessment can catch practitioners out — particularly on the finer details of deficiency classification, the barrier gland volume rule, or the specific requirements of less common protection types. EX Academy's practice questions and inspection simulations are equally useful for renewal preparation as for first-time assessment.