FprEN IEC 61008-1:2026
(Main)Residual current operated circuit-breakers without integral overcurrent protection for household and similar uses (RCCBs) - Part 1: General rules
- Abstract
This document gives general requirements and tests for residual current operated circuit-breakers without integral overcurrent protection for household and similar uses (hereafter referred to as RCCBs), for rated operational voltages not exceeding 440 V AC, with rated frequencies of 50 Hz, 60 Hz or 50/60 Hz and rated currents not exceeding 125 A, intended principally for protection against shock hazard. RCCBs are intended to provide fault protection (previously referred to as protection against indirect contact), the exposed conductive parts of the installation being connected to an appropriate earth electrode. They are also intended to be used to provide protection against fire hazards due to a persistent earth fault current. RCCBs having a rated residual operating current not exceeding 30 mA are used for fault protection and additional protection in the case of failure of the protective provisions against electric shock. This document applies to RCCBs 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. RCCBs are intended to be operated by ordinary or uninstructed persons and designed not to require maintenance. The requirements of this document apply for standard conditions (see 7.1). Additional requirements can be necessary for RCCBs used in locations which have severe environmental conditions. RCCBs within the scope of this document are intended for use in an environment with pollution degree 2 (see 7.3). RCCBs are suitable for isolation. Special precautions (e.g. surge protective devices) can be necessary when excessive overvoltages are likely to occur on the supply side (for example in the case of supply through overhead lines, see IEC 60364-4-44 and IEC 60364-5-53). RCCBs, with the exception of those with an uninterrupted neutral, are suitable for use in IT systems. RCCBs of the general type are resistant to current surges, including the case where surge voltages (as a result of switching transients or induced by lightning) cause loading currents in the installation without occurrence of flashover. RCCBs of type S are considered to be sufficiently resistant against unwanted tripping even if the surge voltage causes a flashover and a follow-on current occurs. Particular requirements are necessary for RCCBs intended to be used at frequencies other than 50 Hz or 60 Hz. For RCCBs incorporated in, or intended for association with socket-outlets only, the requirements of this document can be used, as far as applicable, in conjunction with the requirements of IEC 60884-1 or the national requirements of the country where the product is placed on the market. This document does not apply to: – RCCBs the current setting of which is adjustable without a tool; – RCCBs including batteries. This document is not intended to be used alone; it is intended to be used in conjunction with the relevant product standard, IEC 61008-2-1 or IEC 61008-2-2.
- Status
- Not Published
- Publication Date
- 10-Mar-2027
- Technical Committee
- CLC/TC 23E - Circuit breakers and similar devices for household and similar applications
- Drafting Committee
- CLC/TC 23E/WG 01 - Maintenance of TC23E standards
- Current Stage
- 5020 - Vote circulated - Formal Approval
- Start Date
- 16-Oct-2026
- Due Date
- 23-Apr-2027
- Completion Date
- 16-Oct-2026
FprEN IEC 61008-1:2026 is a draft European Standard from CENELEC based on IEC 61008-1:2024. It specifies general requirements and tests for residual current operated circuit-breakers without integral overcurrent protection for household and similar uses, known as RCCBs. In practice, it tells manufacturers, test labs, and purchasers what RCCBs must do, how they are classified, and how they are verified.
What does FprEN IEC 61008-1:2026 specify?
FprEN IEC 61008-1:2026 covers RCCBs for rated operational voltages up to 440 V AC, rated frequencies of 50 Hz, 60 Hz, or 50/60 Hz, and rated currents up to 125 A. The document is aimed principally at protection against shock hazard, and it also addresses fault protection and protection against fire hazards due to persistent earth fault current.
The standard applies to RCCBs that detect residual current, compare it with the residual operating value, and open the protected circuit when that value is exceeded. It is written for devices intended to be operated by ordinary or uninstructed persons and designed not to require maintenance.
The scope includes use under standard conditions and in pollution degree 2 environments. It also notes suitability for isolation, suitability for IT systems except for RCCBs with an uninterrupted neutral, and the need for special precautions where excessive overvoltages may occur.
The document does not apply to RCCBs with a current setting adjustable without a tool or to RCCBs including batteries. It is not intended to be used alone and is meant to be used with IEC 61008-2-1 or IEC 61008-2-2, depending on the RCCB classification.
Document structure
| Annex | What it covers |
|---|---|
| Annex A | Test sequence and number of samples for certification purposes |
| Annex B | Determination of clearances and creepage distances |
| Annex C | Arrangement for detecting ionized gases during short-circuit tests |
| Annex D | Routine tests |
| Annex E | Methods for determining short-circuit power-factor |
| Annex H | Examples of terminal designs |
| Annex I | Correspondence between ISO and AWG copper conductors |
| Annex J | Follow-up testing program for RCCBs |
| Annex K | Methods for verifying minimum I²t and I values, including silver wire and fuses |
What are the key requirements of FprEN IEC 61008-1:2026?
Ratings, classification, and declared characteristics
FprEN IEC 61008-1:2026 requires the RCCB characteristics to be stated in terms of rated voltage, rated current, rated frequency, making and breaking capacity, residual operating current, residual non-operating current, residual making and breaking capacity, conditional short-circuit current, conditional residual short-circuit current, time-delay where applicable, and the operating response to residual current with DC components. For procurement and specification, this is the core data that tells a buyer whether a device fits the intended installation.
Clause 4 classifies RCCBs by supply conditions, adjustability of residual operating current, response to residual current type, time-delay, protection against external influences, mounting method, connection method, terminal type, and number of poles and current paths. This matters because the right classification must match the installation, the wiring method, and the protective coordination strategy.
The standard gives preferred values for rated current, including 6 A, 8 A, 10 A, 13 A, 16 A, 20 A, 25 A, 32 A, 40 A, 50 A, 63 A, 80 A, 100 A, and 125 A. It also gives standard and preferred values for residual operating current, frequency, impulse withstand voltage, break time, non-actuating time, and short-circuit-related capabilities.
Construction, marking, and installation conditions
Clause 6 requires durable marking and product information. The manufacturer has to state the Joule integral I²t and the peak current I value that the RCCB can withstand, and it has to give the type designation or catalogue number of suitable short-circuit protective device(s) (SCPD(s)). For the user, this is what makes proper selection and coordination possible.
Marking also covers open and closed positions, the protective conductor symbol where relevant, and terminal identification for non-universal terminals. If a degree of protection above IP20 is marked, the device has to meet that protection as installed, or the product information has to state the installation or accessory conditions needed to obtain it.
Clause 7 sets the standard conditions for operation in service and installation. RCCBs are intended for pollution degree 2, and installation has to follow the manufacturer’s instructions. In practice, this means the declared environmental limits are part of compliance, not just the electrical ratings.
Safety, insulation, and mechanical design
Clause 8 requires live parts to be inaccessible when the RCCB is mounted and wired as for normal use. It also requires suitable insulating construction for accessible external parts, fixed insulating linings where needed, properly designed cable or conduit entries, and replacement of plug-in RCCBs without touching live parts. This is the part that directly addresses electric shock risk in handling and installation.
The document also requires adequate dielectric properties and isolation capability, clearances, creepage distances, solid insulation, and temperature-rise limits. These provisions matter because they control whether the device can withstand normal service stress, installation tolerances, and internal spacing requirements.
Mechanical design requirements cover screws, current-carrying parts, connections, terminals for external conductors, mechanical shock and impact, resistance to heat, abnormal heat and fire, and reliability. The test device is mandatory, must simulate residual current for periodic testing, and must not be the sole means of opening the contacts.
Operating performance, short-circuit coordination, and immunity
Clause 8 requires operation in response to alternating residual current, pulsating DC residual current, and, where applicable, pulsating DC residual current superimposed by smooth direct current. Type S RCCBs are treated as time-delayed devices for selectivity, so coordination with upstream or downstream protection can be designed around them.
The standard requires RCCBs to withstand short-circuit conditions when properly coordinated with an SCPD. The SCPD is selected against the RCCB’s let-through I²t and peak current capability, and coordination is verified by the specified test methods. This is important in installations where fault currents can be high enough to damage the RCCB if it is not backed up correctly.
The document also requires resistance to current surges caused by impulse voltages, electromagnetic compatibility (EMC), and temporary overvoltages (TOV). Type S devices have additional resistance against unwanted tripping under surge conditions, including flashover and follow-on current.
What terms does FprEN IEC 61008-1:2026 define?
- Residual current operated circuit-breaker without integral overcurrent protection (RCCB) - A protective device that detects residual current and opens the circuit when the residual current exceeds its operating value, but does not include overcurrent protection.
- Fault protection - The protective function previously referred to as protection against indirect contact, where exposed conductive parts are connected to an appropriate earth electrode.
- Functional earth (FE) - A wire or terminal intended to be connected to PE so the RCCB can continue to be supplied when it is fed from one phase only.
- Type S - An RCCB with time-delay intended for selectivity, so it is less likely to trip undesirably during certain surge or downstream fault conditions.
- Short-circuit protective device (SCPD) - The fuse or circuit-breaker used with an RCCB to protect it against short-circuit effects and to ensure proper coordination.
- Temporary overvoltage (TOV) - A temporary overvoltage condition caused by events such as a high-voltage network fault, loss of neutral, or line-to-neutral short circuit.
- Pollution degree 2 - An environment where only non-conductive pollution normally occurs, but temporary conductivity due to condensation can be expected.
Who uses FprEN IEC 61008-1:2026?
FprEN IEC 61008-1:2026 is used by RCCB manufacturers, component suppliers, and design engineers when defining ratings, construction, terminals, and test plans. It is also used by test laboratories and certification bodies when carrying out type tests, routine tests, and certification sequences.
Quality managers use it to set up production checks and follow-up testing, especially where consistent tripping, insulation performance, and marking durability matter. Buyers, specifiers, and installers use it to choose RCCBs that match the supply system, mounting method, conductor type, and the required coordination with SCPDs.
What changed in FprEN IEC 61008-1:2026 from the previous edition?
FprEN IEC 61008-1:2026 will supersede EN 61008-1:2012 and all of its amendments and corrigenda. The draft text is based on IEC 61008-1:2024.
Which standards are used with FprEN IEC 61008-1:2026?
- IEC 61008-2-1:2024 - Gives the additional requirements and test sequences for RCCBs classified according to 4.1.1.
- IEC 61008-2-2:2024 - Gives the additional requirements and test sequences for RCCBs classified according to 4.1.2 to 4.1.6.
- IEC 62873-2 - Provides vocabulary for residual current operated protective devices.
- IEC 62873-3-1 - Covers screwless-type terminals for external copper conductors.
- IEC 62873-3-2 - Covers flat quick-connect terminations.
- IEC 62873-3-3 - Covers screw-type terminals for external untreated aluminium conductors and aluminium screw-type terminals.
- IEC 60529 - Supplies the IP Code used for declared degrees of protection.
- IEC 60664-1 and IEC 60664-3 - Support insulation coordination, clearances, creepage distances, and pollution-related insulation design.
- IEC 60695-2-10 - Provides the glow-wire apparatus and common procedure used for fire tests.
- IEC 61032 - Provides the probes and standard test finger used to verify accessibility.
- IEC 60060-2, IEC 60068-2-30, IEC 60068-3-4, IEC 60228, and IEC 60417 - Support high-voltage measurement, damp-heat testing, conductor dimensions, and graphical symbols.
- IEC 60884-1 - Is named for RCCBs associated only with socket-outlets, where applicable.
- IEC 60364-4-44 and IEC 60364-5-53 - Are named in the scope for overvoltage precautions and device selection in installations.
What does the FprEN IEC 61008-1:2026 document contain?
FprEN IEC 61008-1:2026 contains the full framework for RCCB design verification: scope, normative references, terms, classification, ratings, marking, service conditions, construction requirements, and a complete test section. The test section includes procedures for marking durability, screw and terminal reliability, protection against electric shock, dielectric strength, temperature-rise, operating characteristics, endurance, short-circuit behaviour, surge immunity, reliability, ageing, rusting, EMC, and TOV.
It also contains test tables and figures used in practice, including the standard test finger, short-circuit test circuits, mechanical shock and impact apparatus, ball-pressure test setup, ring-wave and surge-current circuits, reliability cycling diagrams, TOV circuits, and the glow-wire test diagram. Annexes provide the sample sequences for certification, routine tests for production, follow-up testing guidance, examples of terminal designs, methods for short-circuit power-factor, and methods for verifying minimum I²t and I values with silver wire or fuses.
For laboratories and certification work, the document is therefore not just a product description. It is a complete basis for type testing, routine production testing, and coordination checks between the RCCB and the SCPD used with it.
Relations
- Effective Date
- 07-Jul-2026
- Effective Date
- 03-Feb-2026
- Effective Date
- 03-Feb-2026
- Effective Date
- 03-Feb-2026
- Effective Date
- 03-Feb-2026
- Effective Date
- 03-Feb-2026
- Effective Date
- 03-Feb-2026
- Effective Date
- 03-Feb-2026
- Effective Date
- 03-Feb-2026
- Effective Date
- 03-Feb-2026
- Effective Date
- 03-Feb-2026
- Effective Date
- 03-Feb-2026
- Effective Date
- 22-Jul-2025
- Effective Date
- 25-Nov-2025
- Effective Date
- 25-Nov-2025
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Frequently Asked Questions
FprEN IEC 61008-1:2026 is a draft published by CLC. Its full title is "Residual current operated circuit-breakers without integral overcurrent protection for household and similar uses (RCCBs) - Part 1: General rules". This standard covers: This document gives general requirements and tests for residual current operated circuit-breakers without integral overcurrent protection for household and similar uses (hereafter referred to as RCCBs), for rated operational voltages not exceeding 440 V AC, with rated frequencies of 50 Hz, 60 Hz or 50/60 Hz and rated currents not exceeding 125 A, intended principally for protection against shock hazard. RCCBs are intended to provide fault protection (previously referred to as protection against indirect contact), the exposed conductive parts of the installation being connected to an appropriate earth electrode. They are also intended to be used to provide protection against fire hazards due to a persistent earth fault current. RCCBs having a rated residual operating current not exceeding 30 mA are used for fault protection and additional protection in the case of failure of the protective provisions against electric shock. This document applies to RCCBs 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. RCCBs are intended to be operated by ordinary or uninstructed persons and designed not to require maintenance. The requirements of this document apply for standard conditions (see 7.1). Additional requirements can be necessary for RCCBs used in locations which have severe environmental conditions. RCCBs within the scope of this document are intended for use in an environment with pollution degree 2 (see 7.3). RCCBs are suitable for isolation. Special precautions (e.g. surge protective devices) can be necessary when excessive overvoltages are likely to occur on the supply side (for example in the case of supply through overhead lines, see IEC 60364-4-44 and IEC 60364-5-53). RCCBs, with the exception of those with an uninterrupted neutral, are suitable for use in IT systems. RCCBs of the general type are resistant to current surges, including the case where surge voltages (as a result of switching transients or induced by lightning) cause loading currents in the installation without occurrence of flashover. RCCBs of type S are considered to be sufficiently resistant against unwanted tripping even if the surge voltage causes a flashover and a follow-on current occurs. Particular requirements are necessary for RCCBs intended to be used at frequencies other than 50 Hz or 60 Hz. For RCCBs incorporated in, or intended for association with socket-outlets only, the requirements of this document can be used, as far as applicable, in conjunction with the requirements of IEC 60884-1 or the national requirements of the country where the product is placed on the market. This document does not apply to: – RCCBs the current setting of which is adjustable without a tool; – RCCBs including batteries. This document is not intended to be used alone; it is intended to be used in conjunction with the relevant product standard, IEC 61008-2-1 or IEC 61008-2-2.
This document gives general requirements and tests for residual current operated circuit-breakers without integral overcurrent protection for household and similar uses (hereafter referred to as RCCBs), for rated operational voltages not exceeding 440 V AC, with rated frequencies of 50 Hz, 60 Hz or 50/60 Hz and rated currents not exceeding 125 A, intended principally for protection against shock hazard. RCCBs are intended to provide fault protection (previously referred to as protection against indirect contact), the exposed conductive parts of the installation being connected to an appropriate earth electrode. They are also intended to be used to provide protection against fire hazards due to a persistent earth fault current. RCCBs having a rated residual operating current not exceeding 30 mA are used for fault protection and additional protection in the case of failure of the protective provisions against electric shock. This document applies to RCCBs 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. RCCBs are intended to be operated by ordinary or uninstructed persons and designed not to require maintenance. The requirements of this document apply for standard conditions (see 7.1). Additional requirements can be necessary for RCCBs used in locations which have severe environmental conditions. RCCBs within the scope of this document are intended for use in an environment with pollution degree 2 (see 7.3). RCCBs are suitable for isolation. Special precautions (e.g. surge protective devices) can be necessary when excessive overvoltages are likely to occur on the supply side (for example in the case of supply through overhead lines, see IEC 60364-4-44 and IEC 60364-5-53). RCCBs, with the exception of those with an uninterrupted neutral, are suitable for use in IT systems. RCCBs of the general type are resistant to current surges, including the case where surge voltages (as a result of switching transients or induced by lightning) cause loading currents in the installation without occurrence of flashover. RCCBs of type S are considered to be sufficiently resistant against unwanted tripping even if the surge voltage causes a flashover and a follow-on current occurs. Particular requirements are necessary for RCCBs intended to be used at frequencies other than 50 Hz or 60 Hz. For RCCBs incorporated in, or intended for association with socket-outlets only, the requirements of this document can be used, as far as applicable, in conjunction with the requirements of IEC 60884-1 or the national requirements of the country where the product is placed on the market. This document does not apply to: – RCCBs the current setting of which is adjustable without a tool; – RCCBs including batteries. This document is not intended to be used alone; it is intended to be used in conjunction with the relevant product standard, IEC 61008-2-1 or IEC 61008-2-2.
FprEN IEC 61008-1:2026 is classified under the following ICS (International Classification for Standards) categories: 29.120.50 - Fuses and other overcurrent protection devices. The ICS classification helps identify the subject area and facilitates finding related standards.
FprEN IEC 61008-1:2026 has the following relationships with other standards: It is inter standard links to EN IEC 60695-2-10:2026, EN IEC 60060-2:2025, EN IEC 60228:2024, EN IEC 60695-2-10:2021, EN IEC 60068-3-4:2023, EN IEC 60068-2-30:2025, EN IEC 60664-1:2020, EN 60417-2:1999, EN 60664-3:2017, FprEN IEC 61008-2-1:2026, EN 61032:1998, EN IEC 62840-2:2025, FprEN IEC 61008-1:2026/FprAA:2026, EN 61008-1:2012/A2:2014, EN 61008-1:2012/A11:2015. Understanding these relationships helps ensure you are using the most current and applicable version of the standard.
FprEN IEC 61008-1:2026 is available in PDF format for immediate download after purchase. The document can be added to your cart and obtained through the secure checkout process. Digital delivery ensures instant access to the complete standard document.
Standards Content (Sample)
SLOVENSKI STANDARD
01-februar-2026
Odklopniki na preostali (residualni) tok brez vgrajene nadtokovne zaščite za
gospodinjsko in podobno rabo (RCCB) - 1. del: Splošna pravila (IEC 61008-1:2024)
Residual current operated circuit-breakers without integral overcurrent protection for
household and similar uses (RCCBs) - Part 1: General rules (IEC 61008-1:2024)
Fehlerstrom-/Differenzstrom-Schutzschalter ohne eingebauten Überstromschutz
(RCCBs) für Hausinstallationen und für ähnliche Anwendungen – Teil 1: Allgemeine
Anforderungen (IEC 61008-1:2024)
Interrupteurs automatiques à courant différentiel résiduel sans dispositif de protection
contre les surintensités incorporé pour usages domestiques et analogues (ID) - Partie 1:
Règles générales (IEC 61008-1:2024)
Ta slovenski standard je istoveten z: prEN IEC 61008-1:2026
ICS:
29.120.50 Varovalke in druga Fuses and other overcurrent
nadtokovna zaščita protection devices
2003-01.Slovenski inštitut za standardizacijo. Razmnoževanje celote ali delov tega standarda ni dovoljeno.
DRAFT
EUROPEAN STANDARD
prEN IEC 61008-1
NORME EUROPÉENNE
EUROPÄISCHE NORM
January 2026
ICS 29.120.50 Will supersede EN 61008-1:2012; EN 61008-
1:2012/A1:2014; EN 61008-1:2012/A2:2014; EN 61008-
1:2012/A11:2015; EN 61008-1:2012/A1:2014/AC:2016-06;
EN 61008-1:2012/A12:2017
English Version
Residual current operated circuit-breakers without integral
overcurrent protection for household and similar uses (RCCBs) -
Part 1: General rules
(IEC 61008-1:2024)
Interrupteurs automatiques à courant différentiel résiduel Fehlerstrom-/Differenzstrom-Schutzschalter ohne
sans dispositif de protection contre les surintensités eingebauten Überstromschutz (RCCBs) für
incorporé pour usages domestiques et analogues (ID) - Hausinstallationen und für ähnliche Anwendungen - Teil 1:
Partie 1: Règles générales Allgemeine Anforderungen
(IEC 61008-1:2024) (IEC 61008-1:2024)
This draft European Standard is submitted to CENELEC members for enquiry.
Deadline for CENELEC: 2026-04-17.
The text of this draft consists of the text of IEC 61008-1:2024.
If this draft becomes a European Standard, CENELEC members are bound to comply with the CEN/CENELEC Internal Regulations which
stipulate the conditions for giving this European Standard the status of a national standard without any alteration.
This draft European Standard was established by CENELEC in three official versions (English, French, German).
A version in any other language made by translation under the responsibility of a CENELEC member into its own language and notified to
the CEN-CENELEC Management Centre has the same status as the official versions.
CENELEC members are the national electrotechnical committees of Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, the Czech Republic,
Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the
Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Republic of North Macedonia, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland,
Türkiye and the United Kingdom.
Recipients of this draft are invited to submit, with their comments, notification of any relevant patent rights of which they are aware and to
provide supporting documentation.
Warning : This document is not a European Standard. It is distributed for review and comments. It is subject to change without notice and
shall not be referred to as a European Standard.
European Committee for Electrotechnical Standardization
Comité Européen de Normalisation Electrotechnique
Europäisches Komitee für Elektrotechnische Normung
CEN-CENELEC Management Centre: Rue de la Science 23, B-1040 Brussels
© 2026 CENELEC All rights of exploitation in any form and by any means reserved worldwide for CENELEC Members.
Project: 82325 Ref. No. prEN IEC 61008-1:2026 E
prEN IEC 61008-1:2026 (E)
European foreword
This document (prEN IEC 61008-1:2026) consists of the text of IEC 61008-1:2024, prepared by
IEC/SC 23E “Circuit-breakers and similar equipment for household use” of IEC/TC 23 “Electrical
accessories”.
This document is currently submitted to the Enquiry.
The following dates are proposed:
• latest date by which the existence of this document (doa) dav + 6 months
has to be announced at national level
• latest date by which this document has to be (dop) dav + 12 months
implemented at national level by publication of an
identical national standard or by endorsement
• latest date by which the national standards (dow) dav + 60 months
conflicting with this document have to be withdrawn (to be confirmed or
modified when voting)
This document will supersede EN 61008-1:2012 and all of its amendments and corrigenda (if any).
This document is read in conjunction with prEN IEC 61008-1:2026/prAA:2026.
IEC 61008-1 ®
Edition 4.0 2024-11
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
NORME
INTERNATIONALE
Residual current operated circuit-breakers without integral overcurrent
protection for household and similar uses (RCCBs) –
Part 1: General rules
Interrupteurs automatiques à courant différentiel résiduel sans dispositif de
protection contre les surintensités incorporé pour usages domestiques et
analogues (ID) –
Partie 1: Règles générales
INTERNATIONAL
ELECTROTECHNICAL
COMMISSION
COMMISSION
ELECTROTECHNIQUE
INTERNATIONALE
ICS 29.120.50 ISBN 978-2-8327-0007-5
– 2 – IEC 61008-1:2024 © IEC 2024
CONTENTS
FOREWORD . 9
INTRODUCTION . 11
1 Scope . 12
2 Normative references . 13
3 Terms and definitions . 14
4 Classification . 15
4.1 According to the supply conditions . 15
4.1.1 RCCB operating correctly on the occurrence of residual current . 15
4.1.2 RCCB with 2 or 4 current paths operating correctly on the occurrence of
residual current within the voltage range of 1,1 U and 85 V . 15
e
4.1.3 RCCB according to 4.1.2 fitted with a functional earth (FE) and able to
continue to provide protection when supplied from just one phase and
FE . 15
4.1.4 RCCB with 3 current paths operating correctly on the occurrence of
residual current within the voltage range of 1,1 U and 0,7 U . 15
e e
4.1.5 RCCB operating correctly on the occurrence of residual current within
the voltage range 1,1 U and U . 16
e x
4.1.6 RCCB according to 4.1.5, however reclosing automatically after
restoration of the supply voltage . 16
4.2 According to the possibility of adjusting the residual operating current . 16
4.2.1 RCCB with a single value of rated residual operating current . 16
4.2.2 RCCB with multiple settings of residual operating current by fixed steps . 16
4.3 According to their operation in response to the type of residual current . 16
4.3.1 RCCB of type AC . 16
4.3.2 RCCB of type A . 16
4.4 According to time-delay (in the presence of a residual current) . 16
4.4.1 RCCB without time-delay: type for general use . 16
4.4.2 RCCB with time-delay: type S for selectivity . 16
4.5 According to the protection against external influences . 16
4.5.1 Enclosed-type RCCB (not requiring an appropriate enclosure) . 16
4.5.2 Unenclosed-type RCCB (for use with an appropriate enclosure) . 16
4.6 According to the method of mounting . 16
4.6.1 Surface-type RCCB . 16
4.6.2 Flush-type RCCB . 16
4.6.3 Panel board type RCCB, also referred to as distribution board type . 16
4.7 According to the method of connection . 16
4.7.1 RCCB for which the electrical connections are not associated with the
mechanical mounting . 16
4.7.2 RCCB for which the electrical connections are associated with the
mechanical mounting . 16
4.8 According to the type of terminals . 17
4.8.1 RCCB with screw-type terminals for copper conductors . 17
4.8.2 RCCB with screwless type terminals for copper conductors . 17
4.8.3 RCCB with flat quick-connect terminals for copper conductors . 17
4.8.4 RCCB with screw-type terminals for aluminium conductors . 17
4.9 According to the number of poles and current paths . 17
4.9.1 Single-pole RCCB with two current paths . 17
4.9.2 Two-pole RCCB . 17
IEC 61008-1:2024 © IEC 2024 – 3 –
4.9.3 Three-pole RCCB . 17
4.9.4 Three-pole RCCB with four current paths . 17
4.9.5 Four-pole RCCB . 17
5 Characteristics of RCCBs . 17
5.1 Summary of characteristics . 17
5.2 Rated quantities and other characteristics . 18
5.2.1 Rated voltages . 18
5.2.2 Rated current (I ) . 18
n
5.2.3 Rated frequency . 18
5.2.4 Rated making and breaking capacity (I ) . 18
m
5.2.5 Rated residual operating current (I ) . 18
Δn
5.2.6 Rated residual non-operating current (I ) . 18
Δno
5.2.7 Rated residual making and breaking capacity (I ) . 18
Δm
5.2.8 Rated conditional short-circuit current (I ) . 19
nc
5.2.9 Rated conditional residual short-circuit current (I ) . 19
Δc
5.2.10 Operating characteristics in response to the type of residual current . 19
5.2.11 RCCB type S . 19
5.3 Standard and preferred values . 19
5.3.1 Standard values of rated operational voltage (U ) . 19
e
5.3.2 Preferred values of rated current (I ) . 19
n
5.3.3 Standard values of rated residual operating current (I ) . 19
Δn
5.3.4 Standard value of residual non-operating current (I ) . 20
Δno
5.3.5 Preferred values of rated frequency . 20
5.3.6 Standard values of rated impulse withstand voltage (U ) . 20
imp
5.3.7 Standard limit values of break time and non-actuating time for RCCB of
type AC and A . 20
5.3.8 Standard minimum value of non-operating overcurrent in the case of a
load through an RCCB with two current paths . 20
5.3.9 Standard minimum value of the non-operating overcurrent in the case of
a single-phase load through a three-pole or four-pole RCCB . 20
5.3.10 Standard minimum value of the rated making and breaking capacity
(I ) . 20
m
5.3.11 Standard minimum value of the rated residual making and breaking
capacity (I ) . 20
Δm
5.3.12 Standard and preferred values of the rated conditional short-circuit
current (I ). 21
nc
5.3.13 Standard values of the rated conditional residual short-circuit current
(I ) . 21
Δc
6 Marking and other product information . 21
7 Standard conditions for operation in service and for installation . 22
7.1 Standard conditions . 22
7.2 Conditions of installation . 22
7.3 Pollution degree . 22
8 Requirements for construction and operation . 23
8.1 Mechanical design . 23
8.1.1 General . 23
8.1.2 Mechanism . 23
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8.1.3 Clearances, creepage distances and solid insulation . 25
8.1.4 Screws, current-carrying parts and connections . 26
8.1.5 Terminals for external conductors . 27
8.2 Protection against electric shock . 28
8.3 Dielectric properties and isolating capability . 29
8.4 Temperature-rise . 29
8.4.1 General . 29
8.4.2 Temperature-rise limits . 29
8.4.3 Ambient air temperature . 30
8.5 Operating characteristics . 30
8.5.1 General . 30
8.5.2 Operation in response to the type of residual current . 30
8.5.3 Operation in presence of a residual current equal to or greater than I . 30
Δn
8.6 Mechanical and electrical endurance . 30
8.7 Performance at short-circuit currents . 31
8.8 Resistance to mechanical shock and impact . 31
8.9 Resistance to heat . 31
8.10 Resistance to abnormal heat and to fire . 31
8.11 Test device . 31
8.12 Void . 32
8.13 Behaviour of RCCBs in the event of overcurrent in the main circuit . 32
8.14 Behaviour of RCCBs in the event of current surges caused by impulse
voltages . 32
8.15 Reliability . 32
8.16 Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) . 32
8.17 Resistance to temporary overvoltages (TOV) . 33
9 Tests . 33
9.1 General . 33
9.2 Test conditions . 33
9.3 Test of indelibility of marking . 34
9.4 Test of reliability of screws, current-carrying parts and connections . 34
9.5 Test of reliability of screw-type terminals for external copper conductors . 35
9.6 Verification of protection against electric shock . 36
9.7 Test of dielectric properties . 37
9.7.1 Resistance to humidity . 37
9.7.2 Insulation resistance of the main circuit . 38
9.7.3 Dielectric strength of the main circuit . 38
9.7.4 Insulation resistance and dielectric strength of auxiliary circuits. 39
9.7.5 Secondary circuit of detection transformers . 40
9.7.6 Capability of control circuits connected to the main circuit to withstand
high DC voltages due to insulation measurements . 40
9.7.7 Verification of impulse withstand voltages . 40
9.8 Test of temperature-rise . 42
9.8.1 Ambient air temperature . 42
9.8.2 Test procedure . 42
9.8.3 Measurement of the temperature of parts . 42
9.8.4 Temperature-rise of a part . 42
9.9 Verification of the operating characteristics . 42
9.10 Verification of mechanical and electrical endurance . 43
IEC 61008-1:2024 © IEC 2024 – 5 –
9.10.1 General test conditions . 43
9.10.2 Test procedure . 43
9.10.3 Condition of the RCCB after test . 44
9.11 Verification of the behaviour of the RCCB under short-circuit conditions . 44
9.11.1 List of the short-circuit tests . 44
9.11.2 Short-circuit tests . 44
9.12 Verification of resistance to mechanical shock and impact . 51
9.12.1 Mechanical shock . 51
9.12.2 Mechanical impact . 51
9.13 Test of resistance to heat . 54
9.13.1 Test on complete RCCB . 54
9.13.2 Ball pressure test . 54
9.14 Test of resistance to abnormal heat and to fire . 55
9.15 Verification of the trip-free mechanism . 56
9.16 Verification of the operation of the test device at the limits of rated
operational voltage . 56
9.17 Void . 57
9.18 Verification of the behaviour of RCCBs in the event of overcurrent in the
main circuit . 57
9.19 Verification of the behaviour of RCCBs in the event of current surges caused
by impulse voltages . 57
9.19.1 Current surge test for all RCCBs (0,5 µs/100 kHz ring wave test) . 57
9.19.2 Verification of the behaviour at surge currents up to 3 000 A (8/20 µs
surge current test) . 58
9.20 Verification of reliability . 59
9.20.1 Climatic test. 59
9.20.2 Test with temperature of 40 °C . 60
9.21 Verification of withstand against ageing . 61
9.22 Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) . 61
9.23 Test of resistance to rusting . 61
9.24 Verification of the behaviour of the RCCB under temporary overvoltage
(TOV) conditions . 62
9.24.1 General . 62
9.24.2 TOV test for all RCCBs . 62
9.24.3 Additional tests for RCCBs with a terminal intended to be connected to
the PE . 62
9.24.4 Verification after the tests . 62
Annex A (normative) Test sequence and number of samples to be submitted for
certification purposes . 93
Annex B (normative) Determination of clearances and creepage distances . 94
B.1 General . 94
B.2 Orientation and location of a creepage distance . 94
B.3 Creepage distances where more than one material is used . 94
B.4 Creepage distances split by floating conductive part . 94
B.5 Measurement of creepage distances and clearances . 94
Annex C (normative) Arrangement for the detection of the emission of ionized gases
during short-circuit tests . 99
Annex D (normative) Routine tests . 102
D.1 General . 102
D.2 Tripping test . 102
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D.3 Dielectric strength test . 102
D.4 Performance of the test device . 102
Annex E (informative) Methods for determination of short-circuit power-factor . 103
E.1 General . 103
E.2 Method I – Determination from DC components . 103
E.3 Method II – Determination with pilot generator . 104
Annex F (informative/normative) Void . 105
Annex G (informative/normative) Void . 106
Annex H (informative) Examples of terminal designs . 107
Annex I (informative) Correspondence between ISO and AWG copper conductors . 110
Annex J (informative) Follow-up testing program for RCCBs . 111
J.1 General . 111
J.2 Follow-up testing program . 111
J.2.1 General . 111
J.2.2 Quarterly follow-up testing program . 111
J.2.3 Annual follow-up testing program . 111
J.2.4 Sampling procedure . 112
Annex K (informative) SCPDs for short-circuit tests . 115
K.1 Introductory remark . 115
K.2 Silver wires . 115
K.3 Fuses. 116
K.4 Other means . 116
Bibliography . 117
Figure 1 – Standard test finger . 74
Figure 2 – Void . 75
Figure 3 – Void . 75
Figure 4 – Void . 75
Figure 5 – Typical diagram for all short circuit tests except for the verification of the
suitability in IT systems . 76
Figure 6 – Typical diagram for the verification of the suitability in IT systems . 77
Figure 7 – Detail of impedances Z, Z and Z . 77
1 2
Figure 8 – Mechanical shock test apparatus . 78
Figure 9 – Mechanical impact test apparatus . 79
Figure 10 – Striking element for pendulum impact test apparatus. 80
Figure 11 – Mounting support for sample for mechanical impact test. 81
Figure 12 – Example of mounting an unenclosed or flush-type RCCB for mechanical
impact test . 82
Figure 13 – Example of mounting of panel mounting type RCCB for the mechanical
impact test . 83
Figure 14 – Application of force for mechanical test of rail mounted RCCB . 84
Figure 15 – Ball-pressure test apparatus. 84
Figure 16 – Current ring wave 0,5 µs/100 kHz . 85
Figure 17 – Test circuit for the ring wave test on RCCBs . 85
Figure 18 – Surge current impulse 8/20 µs . 86
Figure 19 – Test circuit for the surge current test of RCCBs . 86
IEC 61008-1:2024 © IEC 2024 – 7 –
Figure 20 – Stabilizing period for reliability test . 87
Figure 21 – Reliability test cycle . 88
Figure 22 – Void . 88
Figure 23 – Example of records for short-circuit tests . 89
Figure 24 – Test circuit for the verification of the behaviour under temporary
overvoltage (TOV) conditions for RCCBs with a terminal intended to be connected to
the PE . 90
Figure 25 – Test apparatus for the verification of the minimum I t and I values to be
p
withstood by the RCCB . 91
Figure 26 – Void . 91
Figure 27 – Diagrammatic representation for glow-wire test . 92
Figure B.1 – Measuring creepage distances and clearances: Example 1 . 95
Figure B.2 – Measuring creepage distances and clearances: Example 2 . 95
Figure B.3 – Measuring creepage distances and clearances: Example 3 . 95
Figure B.4 – Measuring creepage distances and clearances: Example 4 . 96
Figure B.5 – Measuring creepage distances and clearances: Example 5 . 96
Figure B.6 – Measuring creepage distances and clearances: Example 6 . 96
Figure B.7 – Measuring creepage distances and clearances: Example 7 . 97
Figure B.8 – Measuring creepage distances and clearances: Example 8 . 97
Figure B.9 – Measuring creepage distances and clearances: Example 9 . 97
Figure B.10 – Measuring creepage distances and clearances: Example 10 . 98
Figure B.11 – Measuring creepage distances and clearances: Example 11 . 98
Figure C.1 – Example of test arrangement . 100
Figure C.2 – Grid . 101
Figure C.3 – Grid circuit . 101
Figure H.1 – Examples of pillar terminals . 107
Figure H.2 – Examples of screw terminals and stud terminals . 108
Figure H.3 – Examples of saddle terminals . 109
Figure H.4 – Examples of lug terminals . 109
Table 1 – Marking . 63
Table 2 – Void . 64
Table 3 – Void . 64
Table 4 – Void . 64
Table 5 – Void . 64
Table 6 – Void . 64
Table 7 – Void . 64
Table 8 – Void . 64
Table 9 – Void . 64
Table 10 – Void . 64
Table 11 – Standard limit values of break time and non-actuating time for alternating
residual currents (RMS values) for type AC and A . 64
Table 12 – Standard maximum values of break time for half-wave residual currents
(RMS values) for type A . 64
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Table 13 – Void . 65
Table 14 – Tripping current limits . 65
Table 15 – Void . 65
Table 16 – Void . 65
Table 17 – Void . 65
Table 18 – Void . 65
Table 19 – Rated impulse withstand voltage as a function of the nominal voltage of the
installation . 65
Table 20 – Minimum clearances and creepage distances . 66
Table 21 – Test voltage of auxiliary circuits . 68
Table 22 – Test voltage for verification of rated impulse withstand voltage. 68
Table 23 – Test voltage for verifying the suitability for isolation, with reference to the rated
impulse withstand voltage of the RCCB and the altitude where the test is carried out . 68
Table 24 – Connectable cross-sections of copper conductors for screw-type terminals . 69
Table 25 – Test copper conductors corresponding to the rated currents . 69
Table 26 – Screw thread diameters and applied torques . 69
Table 27 – Pulling forces . 70
Table 28 – Temperature-rise values . 70
Table 29 – Power factor ranges of the test circuit . 70
Table 30 – Withstand values and duration of temporary overvoltages . 70
Table 31 – Void . 71
Table 32 – Void . 71
Table 33 – Void . 71
Table 34 – Void . 71
Table 35 – Tests to be made to verify the behaviour of RCCBs under short-circuit
conditions . 71
Table 36 – Minimum values of I t and I . 71
p
Table 37 – Void . 72
Table 38 – Void . 72
Table 39 – Void . 72
Table 40 – Void . 72
Table 41 – Void . 72
Table 42 – Void . 72
Table 43 – Void . 72
Table 44 – Void . 72
Table 45 – Void . 72
Table 46 – Standard values of rated operational voltage . 72
Table 47 – Values of influencing quantities . 73
Table J.1 – Test sequences during follow-up inspections . 112
Table J.2 – Number of samples to be tested . 114
Table K.1 – Indication of silver wire diameters as a function of rated currents and
short-circuit currents . 115
IEC 61008-1:2024 © IEC 2024 – 9 –
INTERNATIONAL ELECTROTECHNICAL COMMISSION
____________
RESIDUAL CURRENT OPERATED CIRCUIT-BREAKERS
WITHOUT INTEGRAL OVERCURRENT PROTECTION
FOR HOUSEHOLD AND SIMILAR USES (RCCBS) –
Part 1: General rules
FOREWORD
1) The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) is a worldwide organization for standardization comprising
all national electrotechnical committees (IEC National Committees). The object of IEC is to promote international
co-operation on all questions concerning standardization in the electrical and electronic fields. To this end and
in addition to other activities, IEC publishes International Standards, Technical Specifications, Technical Reports,
Publicly Available Specifications (PAS) and Guides (hereafter referred to as “IEC Publication(s)”). Their
preparation is entrusted to technical committees; any IEC National Committee interested in the subject dealt with
may participate in thi
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