The Low Voltage Directive 73/23/EEC

Essentially the Low Voltage Directive applies to consumer and capital electrical equipment (mains energised electrical appliances) designed for use within the voltage ranges 50 Vac to 1,000 Vac and 75 Vdc to 1,500 Vdc. However, Equipment subject to the RTTE directive 1999/5/EC must be subject to the low voltage directive with no lower voltage limit.

The directive establishes a single market in electrical appliances throughout the European Union.

The Electrical Equipment (Safety) Regulations 1994 are an amendment to previous legislation. The amendment was necessary to include a requirement for CE marking on subject goods as from 1 January 1997. The legislation covers second-hand as well as new products. (Note: the requirements controlling second-hand products are UK national provisions)

The Regulations are enforced by the local authority trading standards departments, primarily in respect of electrical equipment intended for the consumer and by the Health and Safety Executive in respect for equipment intended for the workplace.

As a Notified Body MIRA, is able to draw up reports under article 8.2 of the directive in relation to industrial equipment and installations.

As a test facility, MIRA is able to conduct Safety Reviews on low voltage equipment in accordance with EN 60950 for use on vehicles. Although not mandatory