WHAT IS THE LOW VOLTAGE DIRECTIVE (LVD) ABOUT?

LVD (2014/35/EU) is a “New Approach” Directive, which came into force on 20 April 2016. The new LVD replaced the old LVD (2006/95/EC), a codifying directive, combining the “original” LVD (73/23/EEC) and all its subsequent amendments. The principal elements of the former Directive (2006/95/EC), including its scope and safety objectives, have remained valid for the new Directive (2014/35/EU).

It comprises of 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

APPLICABILITY OF LOW VOLTAGE DIRECTIVE

The LVD covers health and safety risks on electrical equipment operating with an input or output voltage of between

• 50 and 1000 V for alternating current
• 75 and 1500 V for direct current

It applies to a wide range of electrical equipment for both consumer and professional usage. Equipments covered under the Low Voltage Directive includes:

• Electrical appliances
• Household appliances
• Programmable logic controllers
• Cables
• Laser Equipment
• Power supply units
• Plugs and Sockets for domestic use
• Certain components, e.g., fuses, etc.,