Low Voltage Directive (LVD)

The Low Voltage Directive (2014/35/EU) is the primary legislation governing electrical safety for products sold in Europe. It applies to equipment operating between 50 and 1000 V for alternating current (AC) and 75 and 1500 V for direct current (DC). For North American manufacturers, the LVD is effectively the EU equivalent of UL or NFPA standards, though the compliance pathway differs significantly.

Unlike the US system, which often relies on third-party listing, the LVD typically allows for Self-Certification. However, you cannot simply assume your UL-listed control panel is compliant. You must verify the design against EU Harmonized Standards, most notably EN 60204-1 for machinery. This ensures protection against electric shock, thermal hazards, and fire.

Evidence of LVD compliance is a mandatory section of your Technical File. This includes detailed electrical schematics, risk assessments, and test reports. Once verified, this compliance is cited on your Declaration of Conformity (DoC). Note that if your machine includes wireless features, the Radio Equipment Directive (RED) takes precedence, legally absorbing the safety objectives of the LVD.