SIST EN 50153:2014/A1:2017

Overview

SIST EN 50153:2014/A1:2017 is a European Standard developed by CLC focusing on electrical safety provisions for rolling stock used in rail transport systems. This standard specifies design and manufacturing requirements for electrical installations and equipment on rolling stock, aiming to protect personnel from electrical hazards such as electric shocks. Applicable not only to conventional rail vehicles but also to trolley buses, magnetically levitated transport, and other externally powered road transport systems, EN 50153 ensures a comprehensive approach to electrical safety in various transport applications.

Notably, this standard excludes specific railway types including mine railways, crane installations on rails, moving platforms, funicular railways, and temporary constructions. It serves as a vital guideline for manufacturers, designers, and safety engineers working within the railway industry to uphold best practices relating to electrical hazard protection onboard rolling stock.

Key Topics

• Electrical Protection Requirements
  EN 50153 defines essential requirements for electrical systems to prevent electric shocks to passengers and staff on rolling stock. It details protection measures using various voltage bands, notably the extra-low voltage (ELV) category, also referred to as Band I.

• Extra-Low Voltage (ELV) Circuit Provisions
  The amendment clarifies definitions and requirements related to ELV circuits-specifically Safety Extra Low Voltage (SELV) and Protective Extra Low Voltage (PELV). SELV circuits must remain isolated from the vehicle’s protective bonding system, while PELV circuits require one pole connected to the bonding system under specified voltage limits.

• Impedance Requirements for Protection
  Adjustments have been made in referencing impedance requirements, now aligning with Clause 9 of EN 50122-1:2011. This ensures compatibility with other established railway electrical safety standards.

• Harmonization with EU Directives
  Annex ZZ within this standard establishes a clear relationship between EN 50153 and essential requirements of the European Commission Directive 2008/57/EC on railway interoperability. Compliance with EN 50153 supports conformance with EU safety regulations, facilitating legal and operational alignment across member states.

Applications

• Rolling Stock Electrical Design
  EN 50153 guides engineers and manufacturers on protective measures to implement during the design phase of rolling stock electrical installations. This includes onboard systems powered internally or via external sources.

• Safety Compliance for Rail Operators
  Railway operators use this standard to verify that electrical equipment on trains meets defined safety criteria, mitigating risks associated with electrical hazards.

• Extension to Electrified Road Transport
  The standard’s scope covers trolley buses and other road transport systems utilizing external electrical supply, ensuring a unified approach to electrical hazard prevention beyond traditional rail networks.

• Support for Certification and Interoperability
  Meeting EN 50153 requirements aids in achieving national and international certifications and supports interoperability mandates, enabling seamless cross-border rail transport within the EU.

Related Standards

• EN 50122-1:2011 – Electrical Safety in Railway Applications: Protection Against Electric Shock
  Provides detailed technical requirements on grounding, bonding, and impedance necessary for electrical protection, which EN 50153 references for impedance criteria.

• HD 60364-4-41:2007 – Low Voltage Electrical Installations – Protection for Safety – Protection Against Electric Shock
  European safety provisions for extra-low voltage circuits (SELV and PELV) integral to EN 50153’s requirements for ELV protections.

• TSI LOC&PAS (EU Regulation No 1302/2014) – Technical Specifications for Interoperability for Locomotives and Passenger Rolling Stock
  EN 50153 aligns closely with this Technical Specification for Interoperability, providing the electrical safety technical foundation required by EU directives.

Adhering to SIST EN 50153:2014/A1:2017 is crucial for ensuring the electrical safety of rolling stock in modern rail and electrified transport systems. This standard facilitates the protection of persons from electrical shocks, promotes technical compatibility, and supports compliance with EU regulatory frameworks for railway interoperability. Manufacturers and operators aiming for safety excellence and regulatory conformity within European rail applications should incorporate the guidelines and requirements defined in EN 50153.