IEC 62040-1:2017

Overview

IEC 62040-1:2017 (with AMD1:2021) is the international product safety standard for uninterruptible power systems (UPS). It applies to movable, stationary, fixed or built‑in UPS used in low‑voltage distribution systems that deliver fixed‑frequency AC outputs with port voltages up to 1 000 V AC or 1 500 V DC and include an energy storage device. The standard specifies safety requirements intended to protect ordinary persons (and, where stated, skilled persons) from hazards such as fire, electric shock, thermal, energy and mechanical risks during installation, use and-when applicable-service and maintenance.

Key topics and technical requirements

• Scope and applicability: Covers pluggable and permanently connected UPS, single units or interconnected systems, provided they are installed, operated and maintained as the manufacturer prescribes.
• Safety objectives: Reduce risks of fire, electric shock, thermal and mechanical hazards and energy‑related risks associated with batteries and power electronic converters.
• Reference to group standard: Harmonized with parts of IEC 62477-1:2012 (power electronic converter systems); the 2017 edition replaces the earlier IEC 60950-1 reference.
• Protection against hazards (Clause 4): Design and construction rules to limit access to live parts, prevent overheating, and control mechanical and energy hazards.
• Test requirements (Clause 5): Performance and verification tests including short‑time withstand current, reference load behaviour and temperature limits for magnetic and transformer components (see normative annexes).
• Information and marking (Clause 6): Mandatory labeling, safety instructions and warnings (e.g., voltage backfeed, battery shipping states).
• Normative and informative annexes: Practical guidance such as test probes for access, reference load configurations, ventilation of lead‑acid battery compartments, guidance for battery disconnection during shipment, rack‑mounting requirements and test procedures.

Practical applications - who uses this standard

• UPS manufacturers and OEMs: For safe product design, documentation and compliance.
• Test laboratories and certification bodies: For type testing and conformity assessment to obtain approvals or marks.
• Safety and compliance engineers: To verify design meets international safety requirements.
• Installers, maintenance technicians and facilities managers: To follow marking, ventilation and servicing guidance to reduce operational risk.
• Procurement and asset managers: To specify compliant UPS systems for data centers, telecom, healthcare and industrial installations.

Related standards

• IEC 62477-1:2012 - Group safety standard for power electronic converters (reference document)
• IEC 62040 series - Other parts (e.g., IEC 62040-3 for UPS performance and testing)
• Applicable national or regional electrical safety regulations and building codes

Keywords: IEC 62040-1:2017, UPS safety standard, uninterruptible power systems, IEC 62477-1, low‑voltage UPS, battery ventilation, short‑time withstand current, UPS testing, safety requirements, conformity.