Safety of low voltage switchgear assemblies in South Africa – Part 1.

Abstract

A technical analysis was undertaken to investigate the safety implications of the introduction of the category Specially Tested Assembly (STA) into the South African standard SANS 1473-1:2003. The testing requirements specified for a Specially Tested Assembly (STA) are compared to the testing requirements specified for a Type-Tested Assembly (TTA), tested in accordance with standard IEC 60439-1:1999. The technical inadequacies and the potential safety risks associated with an assembly that is certified as a STA are exposed, and remedial measures proposed.