The Low Voltage Directive
What is covered by the Low Voltage Directive?
The Low Voltage Directive, 2006/95/EC, is a New Approach CE Marking
Directive and replaced 73/23/EEC.
- It is applicable to “electrical equipment designed for use with a voltage
rating of 50 – 1000Vac or 75 – 1500Vdc”.
- It's also called up under the R&TTE
Directive, so applies to all telecoms equipment regardless of voltage.
- Exclusions include equipment for use in an explosive atmosphere, for
radiology and medical purposes, lifts, electricity meters, domestic plugs
and sockets, electric fence controllers.
- It is not used if the Medical Devices Directive or Machinery Safety
Directive are applicable.
- Typical standards cover labelling, flammability, input current, inrush
current, insulation, overload, temperature rise, abnormal tests, mechanical
safety (eg sharp edges), instruction manual, access to live parts, etc.
Why carry out testing?
- For much electrical and electronic equipment sold in Europe, compliance
with the LV Directive is a legal requirement under CE Marking, and testing
to standards is the best way of demonstrating compliance.
- Applying appropriate standards is best practice for ensuring the
functional safety of product not under the scope of the LV Directive, for
example one-off internal products.
- Proof of electrical safety is often a contractual requirement, even
outside Europe.
- Product liability risks can be reduced by ensuring that due diligence has
been applied to safety at the design stage.
How can we help?
Our test laboratories in Soundwell, Bristol;
Castleford, West Yorkshire and
Donibristle, Fife are accredited by UKAS to
ISO17025 for electrical safety testing under the LV Directive ensuring that
tests are consistently carried out correctly, giving our customers a high
level of confidence in the results.
What industries can we serve?
Serving the telecoms, electronics, railway, healthcare, communications, oil
and gas, security and defence sectors, our reputation is based on our record
of helping our customers succeed by providing expert regulatory and
engineering support backed by a flexible, but professional level of service.
Further information?
For more information on any of the above services, please contact us.
Last Updated: 2008-Jun-08
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