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, such as
- household appliances
- cables
- power supply units
- laser equipment
- certain components, e.g. fuses
EU legislation in the electrical sector is important to ensure that health and safety requirements are the same across Europe for products placed on the market.
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.
