Low Voltage Directive

The Low Voltage Directive (LVD) outlines essential safety requirements for electrical equipment operating with a voltage of between 50 V and 1000 V for alternating current and 75V and 1500V for direct current.

It comprises of 11 safety objectives, and addresses all risks from using electrical equipment, including electrical, mechanical and chemical hazards, for example, emission of aggressive substances. It also covers health risks associated with noise, vibration and ergonomic factors.

When a manufacturer is satisfied that their product complies with the Directive then they must affix  the CE marking on the product.

Work with BSI as your partner of choice to help to show your due diligence in meeting these requirements.

The Low Voltage Directive applies to manufacturers of electrical equipment (operating within the above voltage limits) who intend to sell their products in Europe. No matter where you are located, if you are placing these products on the European market then you must comply with this Directive.

The Directive applies to a wide range of household and workplace electrical equipment operating on any AC supply between 50V and 1000V, or DC supply between 75 and 1500V. The voltage limits relate to the voltage of the electrical input or output, not to voltages generated within the equipment.

Equipment covered under the Low Voltage Directive includes:

• Electrical appliances
• Lighting equipment
• Electrical cables
• Power Supply Units
• Laser equipment
• Components, for example, fuses

The Directive excludes:

• Electrical equipment for use in an explosive atmosphere
• Electrical equipment for radiology and medical use
• Electrical parts for passenger lifts
• Plugs and sockets for domestic use

UKCA marking is effective in Great Britain (England, Scotland and Wales) from 1 January 2021, so if you place your product on the market in Great Britain you will need to affix the UKCA marking (although CE marking will also be recognized for most products until the end of 2021). The Low Voltage Directive (LVD) will remain self-declaration under UKCA.

In this new regulatory landscape BSI can deliver services such as issuing reports to clients which might provide evidence of compliance with UK law.

Email us if you have any questions>

As a leading provider of testing and certification solutions, we offer technical expertise and professional testing and certification services enabling you to demonstrate that your products meet essential requirements of the Low Voltage Directive, plus any other applicable directives.

We have a global service with world-class expertise and BSI is leader in testing and certification. With more than 270 technical experts located in over 100 countries, we provide some of the most extensive and efficient testing services, accelerating time to market and giving you a head start of the competition.

To find out more about Low Voltage testing, or for simple, straightforward technical information call our experts now on +91 11 4762 9000.