SIST EN 61229:2001

Overview

EN 61229:1995 (adopted as SIST EN 61229:2001) is a CLC standard that specifies requirements for rigid insulating covers for live working on a.c. installations. The standard applies to rigid protective covers intended to prevent accidental contact with energized parts during live-line work and explicitly includes covers described in EN 60743. Classified under protection against electric shock (ICS 13.260), EN 61229 focuses on safety, performance and usability of insulating covers used in alternating-current environments.

Key Topics

The standard addresses the principal technical and safety aspects required for rigid protective covers without prescribing numeric values not provided in the source. Key topic areas typically covered include:

• Scope and definitions - clear designation of the kinds of rigid insulating covers and intended live-working applications.
• Design and materials - selection of insulating materials and construction practices to ensure reliable protection under normal use.
• Electrical performance - requirements for insulating properties to reduce risk of electric shock when used on a.c. installations.
• Mechanical performance - durability, impact resistance and dimensional stability appropriate for workplace handling.
• Testing and verification - procedures for routine and type testing (electrical and mechanical) to confirm conformity with performance requirements.
• Marking and documentation - labeling, instructions for use, storage and maintenance guidance to ensure safe operation.
• Compatibility with EN 60743 - integration or cross-reference to covers described in EN 60743 for consistent live-working protection.

Applications

EN 61229 is directly applicable to:

• Manufacturing and certification of rigid insulating covers used during live-line maintenance and testing on a.c. systems.
• Selection and procurement of safety equipment by utilities, contractors and maintenance teams performing live working.
• Test laboratories and conformity assessment bodies that evaluate insulating covers for workplace safety.

Practical uses include temporary coverage of exposed live parts during inspections, repairs or switching operations on distribution and industrial a.c. installations.

Who should use this standard

• Equipment manufacturers and designers of insulating covers
• Electrical utilities and substations maintenance teams
• Health & safety managers and compliance officers in power industries
• Test laboratories and certification bodies
• Procurement specialists specifying live-working protective equipment

Related Standards

• EN 60743 (covers included in the scope)
• Other EN standards addressing live working, insulating materials and electrical safety (consult national standards bodies for exact references)

Keywords: EN 61229, rigid protective covers, rigid insulating covers, live working, a.c. installations, EN 60743, electrical safety, protection against electric shock.