Electrotechnical Standards (EN, IEC & ISO) are the driving force behind safe, efficient, and interoperable electrical systems. From heavy industrial machinery and power distribution to consumer electronics and lighting, these standards ensure compliance with critical EU directives like the Low Voltage Directive (LVD) and Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC).
Powering Safety & Innovation
The electrotechnical sector is one of the most strictly regulated industries in Europe. European Standards (EN) provide the “presumption of conformity” required for CE Marking. They define the technical parameters to prevent electrical shock, ensure devices don’t interfere with each other, and maximize energy efficiency.
⚙️ Machine Safety
Protect operators and equipment with EN 60204-1, the benchmark for electrical equipment of machines.
⚡ Power Distribution
Ensure reliability in switchgear and controlgear assemblies using the EN 61439 series.
💡 Lighting & Appliances
Validate safety and performance for luminaires (EN 60598) and household devices (EN 60335).
Essential Standards for Electrical Engineering
To place electrical products on the EU market, these are the critical standards your engineering team needs:
| Standard | Title / Scope | Key Application |
|---|---|---|
| EN 60204-1 | Safety of Machinery – Electrical Equipment | Industrial machines & automation. |
| EN 61439 | Low-voltage switchgear and controlgear | Power distribution panels. |
| EN 50110 | Operation of electrical installations | Workplace safety procedures. |
| EN 60598 | Luminaires – General requirements | LED & traditional lighting safety. |
| EN 60335 | Household electrical appliances | Consumer product safety testing. |
| EN 62305 | Protection against lightning | Building & infrastructure safety. |
Strategic Advantages of Compliance
Adherence to EN/IEC standards is the most efficient path to market access.
- CE Marking: Harmonized standards allow you to self-declare conformity with the Low Voltage Directive (LVD) and EMC Directive.
- Global Interoperability: EN standards are often identical to IEC international standards, allowing you to sell the same product globally.
- Liability Reduction: Following state-of-the-art safety standards is your best legal defense in case of product failure or accidents.
- Energy Efficiency: New Ecodesign regulations require strict adherence to energy performance standards to reduce environmental impact.
📥 Access Official Electrotechnical Standards
Design safe and compliant electrical systems. Download official EN, IEC & ISO documents directly from Genorma.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between IEC and EN standards?
IEC standards are international. EN standards are the European adoption of those standards (often identical). To sell in Europe, you must cite the EN version in your Declaration of Conformity.
Is the Low Voltage Directive (LVD) mandatory?
Yes. Any electrical equipment operating between 50-1000V AC (or 75-1500V DC) placed on the EU market must comply with the LVD. Harmonized EN standards are the primary way to prove this compliance.
What is Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC)?
EMC ensures your device doesn’t emit interference that disrupts other electronics and isn’t affected by interference itself. Standards like the EN 61000 series are essential for testing EMC.
Explore Standards for Other Industries
Navigate to other key sectors to find relevant European and International standards.