Low Voltage Directive (LVD)

The low voltage directive (LVD) (2014/35/EU) ensures that electrical equipment within certain voltage limits provides a high level of protection for European citizens, and benefits fully from the single market. It has been applicable since 20 April 2016.

About the low voltage directive (LVD)

The low voltage directive (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.

Before placing their electrical equipment on the market, manufacturers shall ensure that it has been designed and manufactured in accordance with the safety objectives of the Directive.

Manufacturers of EEE are required to:

• Compile the Technical Documentation (TD)
• Test product to applicable “harmonised standards” (EN)
• Issue the Declaration of Conformity (DoC)
• Affix the CE mark onto the product
  
  

Manufacturers are allowed to “self-certify” under certain conditions but there is no involvement of Notified Body (NoBo) under this Directive. It is however recommended for tests to ENs to be carried out in accredited (ILAC) testing facilities.

The general product safety directive (2001/95/EC) covers consumer goods with a voltage below 50 V for alternating current, or below 75 V for direct current. It aims to ensure that only safe consumer products are sold in the EU.

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