Electric motor-operated hand-held tools, transportable tools and lawn and garden machinery - Safety - Part 1: General requirements (IEC 62841-1:2014, modified + Cor. 1:2014 + Cor. 2:2015); German version EN 62841-1:2015 + AC:2015; Corrigendum 1
1Key Takeaways
This corrigendum modifies the document DIN EN 62841-1 (VDE 0740-1):2016-07 by the following relevant changes: - in the second paragraph of Annex I, subclause I.2.9, the symbol of method for a standard deviation of reproducibility has been added; - in Annex K, subclause K 9.3, the
2Expert Interpretation
An in-depth analysis of the revised DIN EN 62841-1 standard (VDE 0740-1 Berichtigung 1) released in August 2021, covering key technical changes such as adjustments to power tool vibration limits, new leakage current testing regulations, and liquid system protection requirements, and providing standard implementation recommendations and compliance operation guidelines.
Standard Revision Background and Technological Evolution
This revision improves the technical details of the 2016 edition of DIN EN 62841-1 (VDE 0740-1), primarily addressing key aspects such as vibration measurement and electrical safety testing for power tools. The standard was developed by Working Group K514 of the German Electrotechnical Commission (DKE) and reflects the latest safety requirements of the IEC 62841 series.
Interpretation of core changes
| Clause | Original requirement | Revised requirement | Scope of impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8.14.2 Vibration value | The marking requirement for the 2.5m/s² threshold is not clear | If it exceeds 2.5m/s², the actual measured value must be indicated in the instruction manual | All handheld power tools |
| 14.4 Leakage current test | The test time and judgment criteria are unclear | Class II tools ≤2mA, Class I tools ≤5mA, and must pass the voltage withstand test after 24 hours of drying | AC-powered tools |
| 21.15 Liquid Systems | Protection requirements not specified | Three types of protection schemes clarified: Class III structure/RCD protection/isolation transformer | Water-cooled power tools |
Detailed explanation of key technical changes
1. New regulations on vibration measurement
The revised clause 8.14.2 requires that: when the total vibration value of the power tool exceeds 2.5m/s², the specific value must be indicated in the manual. This change aligns with the vibration exposure limit requirements of the EU Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC.
2. Enhanced Electrical Safety
Clause 14.4 updates the leakage current test procedure:
- The test duration is clearly set to 1 minute
- The withstand voltage test requirement after a 24-hour drying period is added
- The leakage current limit for Class II tools is reduced from 3mA to 2mA
Implementation Recommendations
Manufacturer’s Response
- Update the vibration data marking format in the product manual
- Improve the insulation system design of power tools to meet the stricter leakage current requirements
- Liquid system tools need to re-evaluate the protection level configuration plan
Notes for Testing Agencies
- The vibration test needs to use the modified three-point measurement method (three operators each measuring 5 times)
- The leakage current test needs to record the environmental temperature and humidity parameters
- Note the new requirements for battery pack short circuit test in Annex K and L
Analysis of the relevance of standards
This amendment needs to be used in conjunction with the following standards:
| Standard number | Name | Related clauses |
|---|---|---|
| IEC 62841-2 | Particular requirements for hand-held power tools | 8.14.2 Vibration test method |
| IEC 61032:1997 | Probe protection standard | Annex K/L Battery pack contact protection |