This standard specifies the classification, characteristics, marking and product information, standard conditions for operation and installation in service and for installation, requirements for construction and operation and tests of portable devices for household and similar uses (hereafter referred to as PRCD).
This standard applies to PRCDs, consisting of a plug, a residual current device (RCD) and one or more socket-outlets or a provision for connection, functionally independent of, or functionally dependent on, line voltage. They do not incorporate overcurrent protection. They are intended for single-phase circuits for rated currents not exceeding 16A for rated voltages not exceeding 250V a.c. They are intended to provide protection against shock hazard in case of direct contact, in addition to the protection provided by the fixed installations for the circuit downstream.
PRCDs have a rated residual operating current not exceeding 0.03A.
Plugs and socket-outlets will comply with the relevant standards.
This standard applies to portable devices performing simultaneously the functions of detection of the residual current, of comparison of the value of this current with the residual operating value and of opening of the protected circuit when the residual current exceeds this value.
They are not intended to be used as parts of fixed installations. Their connecting means may be plugs, socket-outlets, terminals or cables.
Notes:
1 The requirements for PRCDs are in line with the general requirements of GB 16916.1. PRCDs are essentially intended to be operated by unskilled persons and designed not to require maintenance. They may be submitted for certification purposes.
2 The RCD part of the PRCD is not intended to provide isolation which may be provided by the plug.
3 The use of an integral fuse is permitted, if necessary, for the relevant plug and socket-outlet system.
The requirements of this standard apply for environmental conditions as defined in 7.1. Additional requirements may be necessary for PRCDs used in locations having more severe environmental conditions.
PRCDs including batteries are not covered by this standard.
The present standard does not apply to PRCDs providing the additional function of detecting faults on the supply side and avoiding the closing of the PRCD on a faulty supply circuit.
