Directive 73/23/EEC Low Voltage Electrical Equipment
Brief Introduction of Directive 73/23/EEC Low Voltage Electrical Equipment
The "Electrical Equipment" means any equipment designed for use with a voltage rating of between 50 and 1000 V for alternating current (A.C.) and between 75 and 1500 V for direct current (D.C.). Therefore, this Directive is called often "Low Voltage Directive" which applies to the vast majority of electrical equipment in everyday use. The Electrical Equipment may be placed on the market only if it does not endanger the safety of persons, domestic animals or property.
Today, when manufacturers are faced with highly competitive markets, shortening product life cycles and continuing economic pressures, they are turning to independent certification agencies to provide the confidence and market advantage that is vital to their business needs. The certification agencies assist by issuing certificates in a recognized format.
CE Marking will indicate that the equipment complies with the requirements of all relevant directives.
The manufacturers or brand name or trade mark should be clearly printed on the electrical equipment or, where that is not possible, on the packaging.
The electrical equipment, together with its component parts should be made in such a way as to ensure that it can be safely and properly assembled and connected.
The electrical equipment should be so designed and manufactured as to ensure that protection against the hazards is assured providing that the equipment is used in applications for which it was made and is adequately maintained.
Equipment and Phenomena outside the Scope of the Directive
- Electrical equipment for use in an explosive atmosphere
- Electrical equipment for radiology and medical purposes
- Electrical parts for goods and passenger lifts
- Electricity meters
- Plugs and socket outlets for domestic use
- Electric fence controllers
- Radio-electrical interference
- Specialized electrical equipment, for use on ships, aircraft or railways, which complies with the safety provisions drawn up by international bodies in which the Member States participate.