Verification of wiring correctness, operational functionality, and proper labeling.
This part contains the baseline definitions, service conditions, construction requirements, technical characteristics, and verification methods. It is never used alone; it must always be paired with a specific product part.
The international standards and IEC 61439-2 define the safety, performance, and verification requirements for low-voltage switchgear and controlgear assemblies. Together, they replace the older IEC 60439 standard. They provide a strict framework for panel builders, electrical engineers, and end-users.
provides the foundational rules, while IEC 61439-2 tailors those rules to power switchgear assemblies. Together, they ensure that low-voltage switchboards and MCCs are safe, reliable, and fit for purpose under normal and fault conditions. For specifiers, manufacturers, and installers, understanding these two standards is non-negotiable for compliance with international electrical regulations (e.g., CE marking under Low Voltage Directive, or local adoptions like AS/NZS 61439). iec 614391 and 2 pdf
The standard describes verification of temperature‑rise for assemblies. This can be carried out by testing, but under defined boundary conditions, alternatives such as calculation (based on IEC TR 60890) are also permitted. For the verification of dielectric properties, the standard requires impulse voltage withstand verification, which is mandatory either by test or by design rules. The test is not required when clearances in the assembly are 1.5 times the specified value.
This feature provides manufacturers with flexibility. Instead of requiring expensive destructive testing for every minor configuration change, they can use engineering data and proven comparisons to certify new designs, making the process more cost-effective while maintaining safety.
This public link is valid for 7 days and shares a thread, including any personal information you added. This link or copies made by others cannot be deleted. If you share with third parties, their policies apply. Can’t copy the link right now. Try again later. The international standards and IEC 61439-2 define the
IEC 61439 is an extensive series of standards, each covering a specific type of assembly. The table below outlines the full series as of June 2026:
Applying strict independent design rules and safety margins specified within the standard. 4. Thirteen Core Design Verifications
: Proper integration and mounting of circuit breakers and switches. provides the foundational rules, while IEC 61439-2 tailors
Many manufacturers provide detailed workbooks that summarize the standard's requirements for practical use: : A comprehensive workbook on IEC 61439 in practice Legrand Whitepaper : Explains the responsibilities and testing requirements under the 2020 update. Hager Manual
Part 2 places heavier emphasis on —a major challenge for modern high-efficiency, compact panels.
Official IEC standards are expensive (often $200–$300 USD each). Many professionals search for PDFs hoping to find free versions, though this enters a legal gray area (see below).