Overview
EN 62626-1:2014 (IEC 62626-1:2014 adopted by CLC) defines requirements for enclosed switch-disconnectors - often called maintenance switches or safety switches - intended to provide electrical isolation during repair, maintenance or cleaning. The standard covers devices derived from IEC 60947-3, rated up to 1 000 V a.c., mounted close to equipment (especially motor circuits) and intended to be operated by instructed persons. These devices are explicitly not for remote control, automatic switching or routine operational switching (no quick start/stop or jogging).
Key topics and technical requirements
- Scope and classification: Device classes and characteristics for various maintenance applications.
- Rated limits: Applies to enclosed switch-disconnectors for voltages up to 1 000 V a.c.
- Constructional requirements: Mechanical strength, degree of protection (enclosure), environmental influences and locking provisions to prevent inadvertent re-energization.
- Operation/actuation: Designed for manual local operation only - no provisions for automatic or remote actuation to avoid unexpected starts.
- Performance requirements: Switching capacity and behaviour in isolation applications; devices are suitable for isolation per the IEC 60947 series.
- Product information and marking: Manufacturer-supplied information, front and additional markings (symbol and technical data) required by the standard to support safe use.
- Tests: Type tests and minimum test requirements (mechanical, electrical and environmental) to verify conformance. Table of test requirements and type-test clauses are provided in the standard.
- Safety context: The standard supports the safety objectives of the Low Voltage Directive (LVD 2006/95/EC) and references protective enclosure and impact test standards (e.g., IK code).
Applications and typical users
- Practical use: Isolation of motor circuits and other load circuits during maintenance, cleaning or repair. Installed locally at equipment for safe disconnection.
- Who uses this standard:
- Manufacturers of low-voltage enclosed switch-disconnectors and maintenance switches
- Panel builders, machine designers and OEMs specifying on-equipment isolation devices
- Installation and maintenance engineers implementing lock-out/tag-out and safe-isolation procedures
- Test houses and conformity assessment bodies verifying compliance
- Procurement and specification authors requiring maintenance isolation compliance
Related standards
- IEC/EN 60947-1 (General rules for low-voltage switchgear and controlgear)
- IEC/EN 60947-3 (Switches, disconnectors, switch-disconnectors)
- IEC 62262 (Degrees of protection - IK code)
- Harmonized references noted in the endorsement: EN 60204-1, HD 60364-5-51, EN 60529, EN 60947-5-1, EN ISO 13850
Keywords: EN 62626-1:2014, enclosed switch-disconnectors, maintenance switches, low-voltage switchgear, isolation during maintenance, IEC 60947-3, safety switch, rated voltage up to 1000 V.
