IEC 60743:2013

Overview

IEC 60743:2013 is an international standard published by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) that defines the terminology for tools, devices, and equipment used in live working-operations performed on electrical installations while energized. This third edition replaces the earlier editions from 2001 and 2008, providing a comprehensive and updated lexicon to support clear communication and standardization across the live working industry.

The standard ensures consistent naming, definitions, and illustrations for a wide range of live working tools and equipment, facilitating identification, safety, and technical understanding worldwide. As a technical revision, IEC 60743:2013 aligns with IEC 60050-651, the International Electrotechnical Vocabulary (IEV) section dedicated to live working, offering precise and internationally accepted definitions.

Key Topics

• Scope and Application: Covers terminology for all tools, devices, equipment, and methods used in live working, standardizing names for enhanced clarity and safety.

• General Concepts: Refers to IEC 60050-651 for foundational definitions and concepts related to live working terminology.

• Categories of Equipment:

  • Insulating sticks for safe manual handling of live conductors.
  • Attachable tools and devices designed for specific live working operations.
  • Insulating protective covers and related assemblies for electrical safety.
  • By-pass (shunting) equipment for current diversion during maintenance.
  • Hand tools, including specialized pliers and cutters designed for energized systems.
  • Personal protective equipment and accessories to safeguard live working personnel.
  • Climbing and positioning gear for workers performing tasks at elevation on live systems.
  • Handling and anchoring equipment.
  • Diagnostic devices used for testing and inspection under live conditions.
  • Hydraulic components integral to certain live working tools.
  • Support, stringing, earthing, and cleaning equipment addressed to various operational needs under live conditions.

• Terminology and Illustrations: Provides definitions grounded in international consensus supported by clear illustrations to aid user comprehension and consistency.

• Integration with IEC Vocabulary: Closely linked with IEC 60050-651 and accessible through online portals such as Electropedia, ensuring up-to-date and authoritative terminology.

Applications

IEC 60743:2013 is indispensable for:

• Electrical Utilities: Standardizing communication and documentation related to live working tools and devices for maintenance, inspection, and repair of energized electrical systems.

• Manufacturers of Tools and Equipment: Providing clear definitions to guide product development, labeling, and compliance with international standards.

• Safety and Training Programs: Enhancing worker understanding of specialized equipment used in live working to prevent accidents and ensure adherence to correct procedures.

• Standardization Bodies and Regulatory Authorities: Establishing a uniform language to harmonize regional and international regulations and standards governing live working.

• Engineers and Technical Personnel: Facilitating clear technical specifications, procurement, and operational protocols related to live working equipment.

Related Standards

• IEC 60050-651 (IEV 651): International Electrotechnical Vocabulary section for live working concepts, offering precise and concise definitions complementary to IEC 60743.

• Product-Specific IEC Standards: Provide context-specific definitions for terms related to particular live working products and equipment.

• IEC Glossary: Online resource offering accessible terminology and definitions across electrical and electronic fields relevant to live working.

• Safety Standards for Live Working: Various IEC and ISO standards addressing safety requirements and protective measures when working on energized electrical installations.

By adhering to IEC 60743:2013, professionals and organizations involved in live working can ensure clarity, safety, and international consistency in using and referencing tools, devices, and equipment critical to maintaining energized electrical systems. This standard supports the global industry’s efforts to minimize risk and optimize operational efficiency through effective terminology standardization.