What is AS-NZS 60968-2001 ?

Title: What is AS/NZS 60968-2001? A Comprehensive Guide to Electrical Safety Standards

Electrical safety is a critical aspect of modern-day living. It is essential to ensure that electrical equipment, appliances, and installations are safe and functioning correctly. To achieve this, various international standards and regulations are established. AS/NZS 60968-2001 is one such standard that aims to provide comprehensive guidelines for the inspection and testing of electrical equipment. This article will delve into the purpose and scope of AS/NZS 60968-2001, as well as its compliance requirements.

Purpose of AS/NZS 60968-2001:

The purpose of AS/NZS 60968-2001 is to set out guidelines and requirements for the regular inspection and testing of electrical equipment for safety purposes. The standard was introduced to prevent electric shock, fire hazards, and other electrical accidents that can occur as a result of faulty or inadequately maintained equipment. Regular inspections and testing help identify potential hazards, ensuring that electrical equipment remains safe to use.

Scope of AS/NZS 60968-2001:

AS/NZS 60968-2001 covers a wide range of topics related to electrical safety testing and inspection. It provides guidance for the entire lifecycle of electrical equipment, from design and manufacture to testing and maintenance. The standard also emphasizes the importance of non-destructive testing (NDT) and the use of visual inspection techniques to identify potential hazards.

Every switchboard has to comply with AS/NZS 61439:

In the field of electrical engineering, switchboards play a crucial role in ensuring the safe and efficient distribution of electricity. Adhering to technical standards is essential to guaranteeing the performance, reliability, and safety of these switchboards. AS/NZS 61439 is a comprehensive technical standard that encompasses the design, manufacture, and testing requirements for low-voltage switchgear and controlgear assemblies.

Compliance with AS/NZS 61439 is crucial for various reasons:

* It ensures that switchboards meet the necessary safety and performance standards.

* It guarantees that switchboards are reliable and durable.

* It identifies potential hazards and enables the identification of the root causes of those hazards.

* It provides a standardized framework for the testing and inspection of switchboards.

Conclusion:

AS/NZS 60968-2001 is an essential standard for ensuring electrical safety in buildings and installations. It provides a comprehensive guide to the inspection and testing of electrical equipment, emphasizing the importance of regular inspections and testing. Compliance with AS/NZS 61439 is crucial for the safe and reliable operation of switchboards, ensuring that personnel and equipment are protected from electrical hazards.