IEC 61340-4-11:2025

IEC 61340-4-11 ®
Edition 1.0 2025-03
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
NORME
INTERNATIONALE
Electrostatics –
Part 4-11: Standard test methods for specific applications – Testing of
electrostatic properties of composite IBC

Électrostatique –
Partie 4-11 : Méthodes d'essai normalisées pour des applications spécifiques –
Essais des propriétés électrostatiques des GRV composites
All rights reserved. Unless otherwise specified, no part of this publication may be reproduced or utilized in any form
or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying and microfilm, without permission in writing from
either IEC or IEC's member National Committee in the country of the requester. If you have any questions about IEC
copyright or have an enquiry about obtaining additional rights to this publication, please contact the address below or
your local IEC member National Committee for further information.

Droits de reproduction réservés. Sauf indication contraire, aucune partie de cette publication ne peut être reproduite ni
utilisée sous quelque forme que ce soit et par aucun procédé, électronique ou mécanique, y compris la photocopie et
les microfilms, sans l'accord écrit de l'IEC ou du Comité national de l'IEC du pays du demandeur. Si vous avez des
questions sur le copyright de l'IEC ou si vous désirez obtenir des droits supplémentaires sur cette publication, utilisez
les coordonnées ci-après ou contactez le Comité national de l'IEC de votre pays de résidence.

IEC Secretariat Tel.: +41 22 919 02 11
3, rue de Varembé info@iec.ch
CH-1211 Geneva 20 www.iec.ch
Switzerland
About the IEC
The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) is the leading global organization that prepares and publishes
International Standards for all electrical, electronic and related technologies.

About IEC publications
The technical content of IEC publications is kept under constant review by the IEC. Please make sure that you have the
latest edition, a corrigendum or an amendment might have been published.

IEC publications search - webstore.iec.ch/advsearchform IEC Products & Services Portal - products.iec.ch
The advanced search enables to find IEC publications by a Discover our powerful search engine and read freely all the
variety of criteria (reference number, text, technical publications previews, graphical symbols and the glossary.
committee, …). It also gives information on projects, replaced With a subscription you will always have access to up to date
and withdrawn publications. content tailored to your needs.

IEC Just Published - webstore.iec.ch/justpublished
Electropedia - www.electropedia.org
Stay up to date on all new IEC publications. Just Published
The world's leading online dictionary on electrotechnology,
details all new publications released. Available online and once
containing more than 22 500 terminological entries in English
a month by email.
and French, with equivalent terms in 25 additional languages.

Also known as the International Electrotechnical Vocabulary
IEC Customer Service Centre - webstore.iec.ch/csc
(IEV) online.
If you wish to give us your feedback on this publication or need

further assistance, please contact the Customer Service
Centre: sales@iec.ch.
A propos de l'IEC
La Commission Electrotechnique Internationale (IEC) est la première organisation mondiale qui élabore et publie des
Normes internationales pour tout ce qui a trait à l'électricité, à l'électronique et aux technologies apparentées.

A propos des publications IEC
Le contenu technique des publications IEC est constamment revu. Veuillez vous assurer que vous possédez l’édition la
plus récente, un corrigendum ou amendement peut avoir été publié.

Recherche de publications IEC -  IEC Products & Services Portal - products.iec.ch
webstore.iec.ch/advsearchform Découvrez notre puissant moteur de recherche et consultez
La recherche avancée permet de trouver des publications IEC gratuitement tous les aperçus des publications, symboles
en utilisant différents critères (numéro de référence, texte, graphiques et le glossaire. Avec un abonnement, vous aurez
comité d’études, …). Elle donne aussi des informations sur les toujours accès à un contenu à jour adapté à vos besoins.
projets et les publications remplacées ou retirées.

Electropedia - www.electropedia.org
IEC Just Published - webstore.iec.ch/justpublished
Le premier dictionnaire d'électrotechnologie en ligne au monde,
Restez informé sur les nouvelles publications IEC. Just
avec plus de 22 500 articles terminologiques en anglais et en
Published détaille les nouvelles publications parues.
français, ainsi que les termes équivalents dans 25 langues
Disponible en ligne et une fois par mois par email.
additionnelles. Egalement appelé Vocabulaire

Electrotechnique International (IEV) en ligne.
Service Clients - webstore.iec.ch/csc

Si vous désirez nous donner des commentaires sur cette
publication ou si vous avez des questions contactez-nous:
sales@iec.ch.
IEC 61340-4-11 ®
Edition 1.0 2025-03
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
NORME
INTERNATIONALE
Electrostatics –
Part 4-11: Standard test methods for specific applications – Testing of

electrostatic properties of composite IBC

Électrostatique –
Partie 4-11 : Méthodes d'essai normalisées pour des applications spécifiques –

Essais des propriétés électrostatiques des GRV composites

INTERNATIONAL
ELECTROTECHNICAL
COMMISSION
COMMISSION
ELECTROTECHNIQUE
INTERNATIONALE
ICS 17.220.99, 29.020, 55.080 ISBN 978-2-8327-0245-1

– 2 – IEC 61340-4-11:2025 © IEC 2025
CONTENTS
FOREWORD . 3
INTRODUCTION . 5
1 Scope . 6
2 Normative references . 6
3 Terms and definitions . 7
4 Electrical resistance measurements . 7
4.1 Atmosphere for conditioning and testing . 7
4.2 Apparatus . 7
4.2.1 Instrumentation for measuring surface resistance and resistance to earth . 7
4.2.2 Instrumentation for measuring earth continuity resistance . 8
4.2.3 Electrode assembly for measuring surface resistance and resistance to
earth of inner receptacles . 9
4.2.4 Test leads . 11
4.3 Test procedures . 12
4.3.1 Surface resistance . 12
4.3.2 Resistance to earth of inner receptacle . 13
4.3.3 Resistance to earth of liquid in the inner receptacle . 14
4.3.4 Earth continuity resistance . 15
4.4 Test report . 16
5 Tests . 17
5.1 Tests on new composite IBC . 17
5.1.1 General . 17
5.1.2 Tests of new conductively encased composite IBC with insulating inner
receptacle . 17
5.1.3 Tests on new coated and coextruded composite IBC . 17
5.2 Tests on composite IBC after the first filling . 18
5.2.1 Requirements for periodic examination and testing . 18
5.2.2 Tests of conductively encased composite IBC with insulating inner
receptacle . 18
5.2.3 Tests on coated and coextruded composite IBC . 18
5.2.4 Tests on reconditioned composite IBC . 18
6 Test report and documentation . 20
Annex A (informative) Examples of a test report sheet and safety labels . 21
Bibliography . 24

Figure 1 – Example of an electrode assembly for laboratory evaluations and
acceptance testing . 10
Figure 2 – Example of a contact/support disc with an articulated joint . 10
Figure 3 – Operation of the push-rod handle: relaxed position (left) and measuring
position (right) . 11
Figure 4 – Test procedures for measuring surface resistance . 13
Figure 5 – Test procedure for measuring resistance to earth of an inner receptacle . 14
Figure 6 – Test procedure for measuring resistance to earth of liquid in an inner
receptacle . 15
Figure 7 – Test procedure for measuring earth continuity resistance . 16
Figure A.1 – Example of a test report sheet . 23
Figure A.2 – Safety labels . 23

INTERNATIONAL ELECTROTECHNICAL COMMISSION
____________
ELECTROSTATICS –
Part 4-11: Standard test methods for specific applications –
Testing of electrostatic properties of composite IBC

FOREWORD
1) The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) is a worldwide organization for standardization comprising
all national electrotechnical committees (IEC National Committees). The object of IEC is to promote international
co-operation on all questions concerning standardization in the electrical and electronic fields. To this end and
in addition to other activities, IEC publishes International Standards, Technical Specifications, Technical Reports,
Publicly Available Specifications (PAS) and Guides (hereafter referred to as “IEC Publication(s)”). Their
preparation is entrusted to technical committees; any IEC National Committee interested in the subject dealt with
may participate in this preparatory work. International, governmental and non-governmental organizations liaising
with the IEC also participate in this preparation. IEC collaborates closely with the International Organization for
Standardization (ISO) in accordance with conditions determined by agreement between the two organizations.
2) The formal decisions or agreements of IEC on technical matters express, as nearly as possible, an international
consensus of opinion on the relevant subjects since each technical committee has representation from all
interested IEC National Committees.
3) IEC Publications have the form of recommendations for international use and are accepted by IEC National
Committees in that sense. While all reasonable efforts are made to ensure that the technical content of IEC
Publications is accurate, IEC cannot be held responsible for the way in which they are used or for any
misinterpretation by any end user.
4) In order to promote international uniformity, IEC National Committees undertake to apply IEC Publications
transparently to the maximum extent possible in their national and regional publications. Any divergence between
any IEC Publication and the corresponding national or regional publication shall be clearly indicated in the latter.
5) IEC itself does not provide any attestation of conformity. Independent certification bodies provide conformity
assessment services and, in some areas, access to IEC marks of conformity. IEC is not responsible for any
services carried out by independent certification bodies.
6) All users should ensure that they have the latest edition of this publication.
7) No liability shall attach to IEC or its directors, employees, servants or agents including individual experts and
members of its technical committees and IEC National Committees for any personal injury, property damage or
other damage of any nature whatsoever, whether direct or indirect, or for costs (including legal fees) and
expenses arising out of the publication, use of, or reliance upon, this IEC Publication or any other IEC
Publications.
8) Attention is drawn to the Normative references cited in this publication. Use of the referenced publications is
indispensable for the correct application of this publication.
9) IEC draws attention to the possibility that the implementation of this document may involve the use of (a)
patent(s). IEC takes no position concerning the evidence, validity or applicability of any claimed patent rights in
respect thereof. As of the date of publication of this document, IEC had not received notice of (a) patent(s), which
may be required to implement this document. However, implementers are cautioned that this may not represent
the latest information, which may be obtained from the patent database available at https://patents.iec.ch. IEC
shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights.
IEC 61340-4-11 has been prepared by IEC technical committee 101: Electrostatics. It is an
International Standard.
The text of this International Standard is based on the following documents:
Draft Report on voting
101/723/FDIS 101/727/RVD
Full information on the voting for its approval can be found in the report on voting indicated in
the above table.
The language used for the development of this International Standard is English.

– 4 – IEC 61340-4-11:2025 © IEC 2025
This document was drafted in accordance with ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2, and developed in
accordance with ISO/IEC Directives, Part 1 and ISO/IEC Directives, IEC Supplement, available
at www.iec.ch/members_experts/refdocs. The main document types developed by IEC are
described in greater detail at www.iec.ch/publications.
A list of all the parts in the IEC 61340 series, published under the general title Electrostatics,
can be found on the IEC website.
The committee has decided that the contents of this document will remain unchanged until the
stability date indicated on the IEC website under webstore.iec.ch in the data related to the
specific document. At this date, the document will be
• reconfirmed,
• withdrawn, or
• revised.
INTRODUCTION
Rigid Intermediate Bulk Containers (RIBC), including composite IBC, are widely used for
storage, transportation and handling of liquids.
Only composite IBCs are considered in this part of IEC 61340. The detailed definition of
composite IBC is specified in 6.5.1.3.4 of [1] . Composite IBC with plastic inner receptacles
comprises a rigid outer casing surrounding a plastic inner receptacle, together with appropriate
service and structural equipment. The assembled outer casing and inner receptacle form an
integral unit for filling, storage, transportation and emptying.
The inner receptacle is not intended to perform a containment function without its outer casing.
A "rigid" inner receptacle is a receptacle which retains its general shape when empty without
closures in place and without benefit of the outer casing. Any inner receptacle that is not "rigid"
is considered to be "flexible" (see 6.5.5.4.2 of [1]).
Usually such a receptacle is made of HDPE (High Density Polyethylene) which shows a good
3 3
chemical resistance to various liquids. The volume is usually between 0,5 m and 1,3 m and
is typically 1 m .
HDPE is an electrically insulating material which can become electrostatically charged. Often
the liquid inserted into a composite IBC is also electrically insulating. High electrostatic charges
can occur during filling and emptying processes and remain for a long period of time. An ignition
hazard can occur which is why electrostatically unprotected composite IBC are not used in
hazardous areas. Electrostatic protected IBCs are designed to be safe for use in hazardous
areas.
___________
Numbers in square brackets refer to the Bibliography.

– 6 – IEC 61340-4-11:2025 © IEC 2025
ELECTROSTATICS –
Part 4-11: Standard test methods for specific applications –
Testing of electrostatic properties of composite IBC

1 Scope
This part of IEC 61340 specifies the electrostatic testing, design and safe use requirements for
composite intermediate bulk containers (IBC) intended for use in hazardous areas.
Composite IBC are often filled with flammable liquids which can create an explosive atmosphere
in the inner receptacle. The design requirements for composite IBC intended for such use are
defined in 7.3.4.5 of IEC TS 60079-32-1:2013.
The test procedures described in this document can be used by manufacturers, suppliers and
product users for product qualification and compliance verification of new and reconditioned
composite IBC. Additionally, the requirements of this document can be used for testing the
electrostatic properties of composite IBC, independent of any inspection periods.
Precautions regarding the use of composite IBC (e.g., stirring, cleaning etc.) are defined in
7.3.4.5 of IEC TS 60079-32-1:2013.
Compliance with the requirements of this document does not mitigate the need for full risk
assessment.
2 Normative references
The following documents are referred to in the text in such a way that some or all of their content
constitutes requirements of this document. For dated references, only the edition cited applies.
For undated references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including any
amendments) applies.
IEC TS 60079-32-1:2013 , Explosive atmospheres – Part 32-1: Electrostatic hazards, guidance
IEC TS 60079-32-1:2013/AMD1:2017
IEC 61010-1, Safety requirements for electrical equipment for measurement, control, and
laboratory use – Part 1: General requirements
IEC 61010-2-030, Safety requirements for electrical equipment for measurement, control, and
laboratory use – Part 2-030: Particular requirements for equipment having testing or measuring
circuits
ISO 48-4, Rubber, vulcanized or thermoplastic – Determination of hardness – Part 4:
Indentation hardness by durometer method (Shore hardness)
___________
There exists a consolidated version 1.1:2017 that includes IEC TS 60079-32-1:2013 and its Amendment 1:2017.

3 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document, the terms and definitions given in IEC TS 60079-32-1 and
the following apply.
ISO and IEC maintain terminology databases for use in standardization at the following
addresses:
• IEC Electropedia: available at https://www.electropedia.org/
• ISO Online browsing platform: available at https://www.iso.org/obp
3.1
reconditioning
refurbishment of a composite IBC using various processes to make it ready for re-use without
any additional restrictions regarding its intended use
Note 1 to entry: Reconditioning refers to the routine maintenance of rigid IBCs (e.g. cleaning of IBC),
remanufactured IBC or repaired IBC as defined in 1.2.1 of [2].
3.2
rebottling
replacement of the inner receptacle of a used composite IBC by a new one
Note 1 to entry: Inner receptacle is also known as bottle.
Note 2 to entry: Rebottling can be done under the regime of repaired IBC as defined in 1.2.1 of Reference [2].
4 Electrical resistance measurements
4.1 Atmosphere for conditioning and testing
Unless otherwise agreed, the atmosphere for conditioning and testing for laboratory evaluation
and acceptance testing shall be (23 ± 2) °C and (25 ± 5) % relative humidity, and the
conditioning time prior to testing shall be at least 24 h.
Compliance verification testing is commonly performed under prevailing operational conditions
of temperature and relative humidity. If compliance verification testing is done outside of normal
operations, in a separate laboratory for example, temperature and relative humidity shall either
be as specified above, or as typically found in normal operations. The temperature and relative
humidity at the time of testing, and during any conditioning period, shall be recorded with the
test results.
4.2 Apparatus
4.2.1 Instrumentation for measuring surface resistance and resistance to earth
4.2.1.1 General
Resistance measuring apparatus may consist of either a DC power supply and ammeter, or an
integrated instrument (ohmmeter).
With some instrumentation, either one of the measuring terminals can be connected to earth.
However, in some cases, it is important to only connect the correctly designated terminal to
earth. This is an important consideration if the earth bonding point is connected to earth when
measurements are made.
– 8 – IEC 61340-4-11:2025 © IEC 2025
WARNING – The procedures and equipment described in this document can expose personnel
to hazardous electrical conditions. Users of this document are responsible for selecting
equipment that complies with applicable laws and regulatory codes. Test procedures shall not
be carried out in the presence of powders, liquids or gases that can form explosive
atmospheres. Users of this document are encouraged to carry out proper risk assessments
before undertaking any of the test procedures. Safety requirements for electrical equipment for
measurements are given in IEC 61010-1 and IEC 61010-2-030.
4.2.1.2 Instrumentation for laboratory evaluation
The open circuit voltage shall be (10,0 ± 0,5) V for measurements less than 1 × 10 Ω.
The output voltage under load shall be (500 ± 25) V for measurements greater than or equal to
1 × 10 Ω.
3 13
If an ohmmeter is used, readings shall be possible at least from 1 × 10 Ω to 1 × 10 Ω, with
an accuracy of ± 10 %.
If a DC power supply and ammeter are used, readings shall be possible at least from 50 pA to
10 mA. The combined accuracy of the DC power supply and ammeter shall be ± 10 %.
4.2.1.3 Instrumentation for acceptance testing
Instrumentation for laboratory evaluation or instrumentation meeting the following requirements
shall be used for acceptance testing.
The open circuit voltage shall be (10,0 ± 0,5) V for measurements less than 1 × 10 Ω.
The open circuit voltage shall be (500 ± 25) V for measurements greater than or equal to
1 × 10 Ω.
3 13
If an ohmmeter is used, readings shall be possible at least from 1 × 10 Ω to 1 × 10 Ω, with
an accuracy of ± 20 %.
If a DC power supply and ammeter are used, readings shall be possible at least from 50 pA to
10 mA. The combined accuracy of the DC power supply and ammeter shall be ± 20 %.
In case of dispute, instrumentation for laboratory evaluations shall be used.
4.2.1.4 Instrumentation for compliance verification (periodic testing)
Instrumentation meeting the requirements for laboratory evaluation or acceptance testing, or
instrumentation meeting the following requirements shall be used.
Compliance verification instrumentation shall be capable of making measurements one order
of magnitude above and below the intended measurement range. The output voltage of
compliance verification instrumentation may vary from laboratory evaluation or acceptance
testing instrumentation and may be rated under load or open circuit. Compliance verification
instrumentation shall be checked against laboratory evaluation or acceptance testing
instrumentation to ensure there is correlation between measurement results.
In case of dispute, instrumentation for acceptance testing or laboratory evaluation shall be used.
4.2.2 Instrumentation for measuring earth continuity resistance
Resistance measuring apparatus with readings possible at least from 1 Ω to 100 Ω shall be
used. The open circuit voltage shall not exceed 10 V.

4.2.3 Electrode assembly for measuring surface resistance and resistance to earth of
inner receptacles
4.2.3.1 General
The electrodes shall consist of a material that allows intimate contact with the specimen surface
and introduces no appreciable error because of electrode resistance or contamination of the
specimen. The electrode material shall be corrosion resistant under test conditions and shall
not cause a chemical reaction with the material being tested.
The electrode assembly described in 4.2.3.2 below is designed to apply a defined force over a
defined contact area and may be used irrespective of the geometry and orientation of the
surface being measured.
Other configurations complying with national or international standards may also be used, if
appropriate. In cases of dispute, the assemblies described in this document shall be applied.
4.2.3.2 Electrode assembly for laboratory evaluations and acceptance testing
The electrode assembly (see Figure 1) is a tripod configuration consisting of two rods connected
to contact discs via articulated joints (see Figure 2) and a third rod connected to a support disc
also via an articulated joint. The rods are held in an insulating frame. A handle with a push-rod
shaft and spring is mounted in the insulating frame. The push-rod shaft shall either be made
from insulating material or shall have a section of insulating material attached to the end that
contacts the surface under test. The electrical resistance between any pair of rods, and between
Ω measured at (500 ± 25) V. The
any rod and the push-rod shaft shall be greater than 1 × 10
operation of the push-rod is shown in Figure 3.
Conductive contact material with a Shore A hardness of 50 to 70, measured according to
ISO 48-4, is applied to the faces of the contact discs. The diameter of the conductive contact
material shall be (25 ± 1) mm. The centre-to-centre distance between the two contact discs
shall be (52 ± 1) mm.
The support disc is not part of the electrical measuring circuit, but the same contact material as
applied to the contact discs may be applied to the support disc to improve physical contact with
the surface under test.
With the electrode assembly held against a clean metal plate, the electrical resistance between
the two contact discs shall be less than 1 × 10 Ω measured at (10,0 ± 0,5) V.
The push-rod handle is held in place by a spring but is free to move with respect to the insulating
frame when sufficient force is applied. The spring and the length of the push-rod shaft shall be
selected so that when the insulating push-rod end contacts the surface under test, a force of
(50 ± 1) N is applied via the contact and support discs (see 4.2.3.3). This design allows the
force applied via the contact and support discs to be controlled even if a higher force is applied
to the push-rod handle.
The articulated joints shall provide sufficient movement to allow the maximum possible area of
the conductive contact material to be in contact with the surface under test when a force of
(50 ± 1) N is applied.
– 10 – IEC 61340-4-11:2025 © IEC 2025
Dimensions in millimetres
Key
1 push-rod handle with spring
2, 3 electrical connection (e.g. for banana plug)
4 insulating frame
5 contact disc, ∅ (25 ± 1) mm
6 conductive contact material, ∅ (25 ± 1) mm
7 support disc, ∅ (25 ± 1) mm
8 insulating push-rod end
Figure 1 – Example of an electrode assembly for laboratory
evaluations and acceptance testing
Dimensions in millimetres
NOTE The articulation angle (15°) is a nominal value provided as an example.
Figure 2 – Example of a contact/support disc with an articulated joint

Figure 3 – Operation of the push-rod handle: relaxed position (left)
and measuring position (right)
4.2.3.3 Procedure for determining applied force
The following procedure shall be used to determine the force applied via the contact and support
discs of the electrode assembly for laboratory evaluations and acceptance testing. A platform
balance is required, capable of measuring at least 5,5 kg with an accuracy of ± 2 %.
a) Place the electrode assembly with the contact and support discs in contact with the
measuring platform of the balance.
b) Without touching the electrode assembly, record the mass indicated by the balance, or use
a tare function to zero the balance.
c) Push the handle until the insulating push-rod end makes contact with the measuring platform
of the balance, taking care not to increase the applied force after contact has been made.
d) Record the mass indicated by the balance.
The increase in mass indicated by the balance at the point when the insulating push-rod end
contacts the measuring platform of the balance shall be (5,2 ± 0,2) kg.
4.2.3.4 Electrode assembly for compliance verification (periodic testing)
The electrode assembly meeting the requirements for laboratory evaluation and acceptance
testing, or any other electrode assembly satisfying the general characteristics specified in
4.2.3.1 shall be used. If another electrode assembly is used, it shall be checked to ensure the
results obtained correlate with results obtained using the electrode assembly for laboratory
evaluation and acceptance testing.
In case of dispute, the electrode assembly for laboratory evaluation and acceptance testing
shall be used.
4.2.4 Test leads
Test leads shall be as short as possible whilst still having sufficient length to enable the
measurements specified in 4.3 to be made. The insulation resistance of the test lead sheaths
shall be sufficiently high to avoid measurement errors in situations where test leads can touch
one another or touch other objects.

– 12 – IEC 61340-4-11:2025 © IEC 2025
4.3 Test procedures
4.3.1 Surface resistance
The procedure for measuring surface resistance of the exterior surface of an inner receptacle
is as follows:
a) Connect the electrode assembly to the measuring terminals of the instrumentation.
b) Position the electrode assembly with contact discs and support discs on the surface under
test and push the handle until the insulating rod end touches the surface under test (see
Figure 4).
c) Apply (10,0 ± 0,5) V and take the reading after (15 ± 1) s.
d) If the indicated resistance is less than 1 × 10 Ω, record the result. If the indicated
resistance is greater than or equal to 1 × 10 Ω, repeat the measurement at (500 ± 25) V
and record the result. Results shall be recorded for the resistance indicated at the highest
measuring voltage. For example, if the resistance at 10 V is 1,5 × 10 Ω, and at 500 V is
5 5
9,0 × 10 Ω, the resistance recorded shall be 9,0 × 10 Ω.
e) Repeat b) to d) at different positions on the inner receptacle. For laboratory evaluation and
acceptance testing, measurements shall be made in at least 3 positions evenly distributed
across each accessible side, top and base of the inner receptacle. For compliance
verification, the number of measuring positions may be reduced.

a) Example showing positioning of the electrode assembly for measuring
surface resistance on top of an inner receptacle

b) Example showing positioning of the electrode assembly for measuring
surface resistance on a side of an inner receptacle

c) Example showing positioning of the electrode assembly for measuring
surface resistance on a corner of an inner receptacle
Figure 4 – Test procedures for measuring surface resistance
4.3.2 Resistance to earth of inner receptacle
The procedure for measuring resistance from the exterior surface of an inner receptacle to earth
is as follows:
a) Connect one contact disc of the electrode assembly to one measuring terminal of the
instrumentation. Connect the other measuring terminal of the instrumentation to the earth
bonding point of the composite IBC (see Figure 5).
b) Perform steps b) to e) described in 4.3.1.

– 14 – IEC 61340-4-11:2025 © IEC 2025

Figure 5 – Test procedure for measuring resistance to earth of an inner receptacle
4.3.3 Resistance to earth of liquid in the inner receptacle
The procedure for measuring resistance from conductive liquid in an inner receptacle to earth
is as follows:
a) Pour ten litres of water into the inner receptacle.
b) Connect one measuring terminal of the instrumentation to the conductive liquid by allowing
the connector of a test lead to dip into the liquid. Connect the other measuring terminal of
the instrumentation to the earth bonding point of the composite IBC (see Figure 6).
c) Perform steps c) and d) described in 4.3.1.

Figure 6 – Test procedure for measuring resistance
to earth of liquid in an inner receptacle
The resistance of the conductive liquid can be checked by performing this test procedure using
a small metal container in place of the composite IBC, in which case the measured resistance
shall be less than 1 × 10 Ω.
4.3.4 Earth continuity resistance
The procedure for measuring resistance between metal components of the earth bonding
system of a composite IBC is as follows:
a) Connect one measuring terminal of the instrumentation to a metal component. Connect the
other measuring terminal of the instrumentation to another metal component or to the earth
bonding point (see Figure 7).
b) Apply the measuring voltage and record the reading after (15 ± 1) s.
c) Repeat a) and b) for all metal components.

– 16 – IEC 61340-4-11:2025 © IEC 2025

Figure 7 – Test procedure for measuring earth continuity resistance
4.4 Test report
The test report shall include at least the following information:
– reference to this document;
– name of measuring laboratory or organisation;
– date of measurement;
– temperature and relative humidity, and duration of any conditioning;
– identification of instrumentation used;
– specification of electrodes used if different from those specified in 4.2.3.2;
– description and identification of the samples tested;
– test results:
• parameter measured (surface resistance, resistance to earth or earth continuity
resistance);
• applied measuring voltage;
• number of measurements;
• individual recorded resistance values;
• geometric mean resistance.
NOTE The geometric mean is calculated by taking the nth root of the product of n values.

5 Tests
5.1 Tests on new composite IBC
5.1.1 General
New composite IBCs are manufactured from new and unused components.
In general, a distinction is made between two construction forms of composite IBCs:
– conductively encased composite IBC in which the electrostatic safety of the insulating inner
receptacle is achieved by the charge binding effect of a conductive encasement (e.g. steel
tube frame, wire gauzes, conductive composite materials, conductive plastic outer
container);
– composite IBC in which the electrostatic safety is achieved by a dissipative or conductive
exterior of the inner receptacle (e.g. conductive coating, co-extrusion with conductive or
dissipative outer layer).
All composite IBCs shall be fitted with a device to allow electrical continuity between conductive
components and earth. Different types of devices may be used as appropriate to the design and
construction of the composite IBC. For example, the device may be in the form of one or more
designated bonding points to which earth clamps and cables can be attached. A metal frame
encasement may also be designed as an earthing device.
Contact with the floor can provide a means of earthing composite IBC, but as the resistance to
earth from the floor surface is not always known to be acceptably low, this should only be
considered as a secondary means of earthing. The primary means of earthing shall be by direct
connection to the earthing device of the composite IBC.
The presence of earthing devices and connections to other components shall be verified for
new composite IBC, after first filling and for reconditioned composite IBC.
Examples of acceptable safety labels are shown in Annex A (Figure A.2).
5.1.2 Tests of new conductively encased composite IBC with insulating inner
receptacle
For type qualification, items a) and d) shall be tested by measuring resistance to earth of liquid
in the inner receptacle, see 4.3.3, and the result shall be less than 1,0 × 10 Ω.
The following features of new composite IBC shall be examined before first use:
a) a conductive connection between the liquid and the outer container is ensured (e.g. an
earthing cable is connected);
b) a safety label (7.3.4.5 of IEC TS 60079-32-1:2013) is fixed to the container;
c) the filling opening is equipped with the closure meeting the requirements of 7.3.4.5 of
IEC TS 60079-32-1:2013;
d) an electrical contact for the liquid exists in the area of the outlet fitting or the conductive
immersion pipe (visual test before mounting the outlet fitting);
e) that the type of the composite IBC is the tested one.
5.1.3 Tests on new coated and coextruded composite IBC
For type qualification, in addition to item a), items b) and e) shall be tested by measuring
resistance to earth of liquid in the inner receptacle, see 4.3.3, and the result shall be less than
Ω.
1,0 × 10
– 18 – IEC 61340-4-11:2025 © IEC 2025
The following features of new composite IBC shall be examined before first use:
a) the outer layer of the composite IBC shall have a surface resistance (see 4.3.1) and a
resistance to earth (see 4.3.2) of less than 1,0 × 10 Ω;
b) a conductive connection between the liquid and the outer container is ensured (e.g. an
earthing cable is connected);
c) a safety label according to 7.3.4.5 of IEC TS 60079-32-1:2013 is fixed to the container;
d) the filling opening is equipped with the closure meeting the requirements of 7.3.4.5 of
IEC TS 60079-32-1:2013;
e) an electrical contact for the liquid exists in the area of the outlet (tested visually before
mounting the outlet fitting).
5.2 Tests on composite IBC after the first filling
5.2.1 Requirements for periodic examination and testing
Examination and testing of composite IBC shall be done no later than 30 months after the date
of manufacturing as marked on the inner receptacle. Re-examination and re-testing shall be
done no later than 30 months after the previous examination and testing.
5.2.2 Tests of conductively encased composite IBC with insulating inner receptacle
The following items shall be examined and/or tested:
a) the inner receptacle and its encasement shall not show any deformation or other damages,
as otherwise the distance between inner receptacle and its encasement could have taken
an inadmissible value, see 7.3.4.5 of IEC TS 60079-32-1:2013;
b) measurements shall be carried out of resistance between external metal components and
the earthing device, see 4.3.4, and the result shall be less than 10 Ω;
c) a safety label according to 7.3.4.5 of IEC TS 60079-32-1:2013 is fixed to the container;
d) the filling opening is equipped with the closure meeting the requirements of 7.3.4.5 of
IEC TS 60079-32-1:2013.
5.2.3 Tests on coated and coextruded composite IBC
The following items shall be examined and/or tested:
a) the outer layer of the composite IBC shall have a surface resistance (see 4.3.1) and a
resistance to earth (see 4.3.2) of less than 1,0 × 10 Ω;
b) measurements shall be carried out of resistance between external metal components and
the earthing device, see 4.3.4, and the result shall be less than 10 Ω;
c) a safety label according to 7.3.4.5 of IEC TS 60079-32-1:2013 is fixed to the container;
d) the filling opening is equipped with the closure meeting the requirements of 7.3.4.5 of
IEC TS 60079-32-1:2013;
e) an earthing device relevant to the construction exists.
5.2.4 Tests on reconditioned composite IBC
5.2.4.1 General
After reconditioning, each composite IBC shall pass the following tests, depending on whether
it has been cleaned or has been fitted with a new inner receptacle (rebottled).

5.2.4.2 Cleaned composite IBC
5.2.4.2.1 Conductively encased composite IBC with insulating inner receptacle
Every cleaned composite IBC shall pass the following tests. In doing so, it shall be examined
that:
a) the inner receptacle and its encasement shall not show any deformation or other damages,
as otherwise the distance between inner receptacle and its encasement could have taken
an inadmissible value, see 7.3.4.5 of IEC TS 60079-32-1:2013;
b) measurements shall be carried out of resistance between external metal components and
the earthing device, see 4.3.4, and the result shall be less than 10 Ω;
c) a safety label according to 7.3.4.5 of IEC TS 60079-32-1:2013 is fixed to the container;
d) the filling opening is equipped with the closure meeting the requirements of 7.3.4.5 of
IEC TS 60079-32-1:2013.
5.2.4.2.2 Coated and coextruded composite IBC
Every cleaned composite IBC shall pass the following tests. In doing so, it will be examined
that:
a) the outer layer of the composite IBC shall have a surface resistance (see 4.3.1) and a
resistance to earth (see 4.3.2) of less than 1,0 × 10 Ω;
b) measurements shall be carried out of resistance between external metal components and
the earthing device, see 4.3.4, and the result shall be less than 10 Ω;
c) a safety label according to 7.3.4.5 of IEC TS 60079-32-1:2013 is fixed to the container;
d) the filling opening is equipped with the closure meeting the requirements of 7.3.4.5 of
IEC TS 60079-32-1:2013.
5.2.4.3 Replacing an inner receptacle – Rebottling
Only authorized appropriate inner receptacles shall be used. Every composite IBC equ
...