scope:

This recommendation covers: - standard degrees of protection provided by enclosures for low-voltage switchgear and controlegear, as regards: a) protection of persons against contact with live or moving parts inside the enclosure and protection of equipment against ingress of solid foreign bodies; b) protection of equipment against ingress of liquid, c) protection of equipment against mechanical damage (under consideration); markings regarding these degrees of protection; - tests to be performed to prove that the equipment meets the requirements of this recommendation. This recommendation does not apply to special degrees of protection, such as protection of equipment in an explosive atmosphere. Neither does it cover protection against other unusual service conditions such as fungus and corrosive vapours. This recommendation is intended to serve as a guide to the requirements for protective enclosures. The tests, however, are applicable only where practicable and where agreed between manufacturer and user. The effects of stresses occuring during short-circuit operation are not covered by this recommendation.