IEC 61010-2-033:2012

Safety requirements for electrical equipment for measurement, control, and laboratory use - Part 2-033: Particular requirements for hand-held multimeters and other meters, for domestic and professional use, capable of measuring mains voltage

IEC 61010-2-033:2012 specifies safety requirements for METERS. The METERS that have a primary purpose of measuring voltage on a live MAINS CIRCUIT are within the scope of this standard. They have various names, but all of them have capability for measurements of voltages on a live MAINS CIRCUIT. Some of the names given to this equipment are as follows:
- MULTIMETER;
- digital MULTIMETER;
- VOLTMETER;
- clamp METER (see also Part 2-032).
For the purpose of this standard, the term METER is used for these HAND-HELD measuring instruments.
This publication is to be read in conjunction with IEC 61010-1:2010.

Règles de sécurité pour appareils électriques de mesurage, de régulation et de laboratoire - Partie 2-033: Exigences particulières pour les multimètres portatifs et autres mesureurs, pour usage domestique et professionnel, capable de mesurer la tension réseau

La CEI 61010-2-033:2012 spécifie les exigences de sécurité pour les MESUREURS. Les MESUREURS qui ont pour objectif principal de mesurer la tension d'un CIRCUIT RESEAU sous tension sont dans le domaine d'application de cette norme. Ils ont des noms différents, mais tous ont la capacité de mesurer la tension d'un CIRCUIT RESEAU. Quelques-uns des noms donnés à ces appareils sont les suivants:
- MULTIMETRE;
- MULTIMETRE numérique;
- VOLTMETRE;
- pince MULTIMETRE (voir aussi la Partie 2-032).
Aux fins de la présente norme, le terme MESUREUR est utilisé pour ces appareils de mesure PORTATIFS.
Cette publication doit être lue conjointement avec la CEI 61010-1:2010.

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 03-Apr-2012
• ICS: 19.080 - Electrical and electronic testing
• ICS: 71.040.10 - Chemical laboratories. Laboratory equipment
• Technical Committee: TC 66 - Safety of measuring, control and laboratory equipment
• Drafting Committee: WG 2 - TC 66/WG 2
• Current Stage: DELPUB - Deleted Publication
• Start Date: 21-Jun-2019
• Completion Date: 30-Jun-2017

Relations

• Revised: IEC 61010-2-033:2019 - Safety requirements for electrical equipment for measurement, control, and laboratory use - Part 2-033: Particular requirements for hand-held multimeters and other meters for domestic and professional use, capable of measuring mains voltage
• Effective Date: 05-Sep-2023

Overview

IEC 61010-2-033:2012 is an international standard published by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). It outlines the safety requirements for hand-held multimeters and other meters, designed for domestic and professional use, that are capable of measuring mains voltage on live electrical circuits. This standard forms a crucial part of the IEC 61010 series and supplements the general safety requirements detailed in IEC 61010-1:2010.

The primary focus is on hand-held measurement devices-including digital multimeters, voltmeters, and clamp meters-used to test live mains circuits. It ensures their design and construction minimize risks related to electric shock, mechanical hazards, fire, and other hazards during use.

Key Topics

The key safety aspects addressed by IEC 61010-2-033:2012 include:

• Protection Against Electric Shock
  The standard specifies insulation levels, clearances, creepage distances, and protective measures to withstand mains voltage electrical hazards.

• Mechanical Hazards and Stress Resistance
  Equipment must be designed to handle mechanical shocks, impacts, and other physical stresses expected in domestic and professional environments.

• Fire and Heat Resistance
  Requirements ensure the meter does not become a fire hazard and can withstand temperature extremes during operation.

• Hazardous Substances and Fluid Protection
  Devices must prevent risks associated with exposure to liquids, harmful gases, and materials liberated during faults.

• Marking and Documentation
  Clear labelling and user instructions must communicate safety information effectively to users.

• Testing Procedures
  The standard prescribes various tests for validating compliance, such as electrical strength tests, insulation integrity, and mechanical durability.

• Measurement Categories and Circuits
  Annex AA defines measurement categories (III and IV) relevant to mains voltage measurements, providing guidance on insulation and clearance requirements based on circuit conditions.

Applications

IEC 61010-2-033:2012 is applicable for manufacturers, testing laboratories, and users involved with:

• Hand-held multimeters used for measuring voltage on household and industrial mains circuits.
• Digital multimeters and voltmeters designed to safely test live electrical installations during maintenance, troubleshooting, and inspection.
• Clamp meters (in conjunction with IEC 61010-2-032) used for current and voltage measurements where safety at mains voltage is critical.
• Electrical equipment designers ensuring product safety compliance before market release.
• Certification bodies conducting conformity assessments and safety approvals for hand-held meters.

Adherence to this standard enhances user safety by mitigating electrical shock risks and ensuring reliable operation of measuring instruments in real-world conditions.

Related Standards

• IEC 61010-1:2010 – General safety requirements for electrical equipment for measurement, control, and laboratory use. IEC 61010-2-033 functions as a supplement with particular requirements for hand-held meters.

• IEC 61010-2-032 – Safety requirements for hand-held and hand-manipulated current sensors such as clamp meters, which are sometimes used together with devices covered under Part 2-033.

• IEC 61010-2-030 – Safety requirements for equipment connected to external devices or circuits for measurement or testing purposes.

• ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2 – Governs the drafting and presentation of IEC standards, ensuring international uniformity.

---

By following IEC 61010-2-033:2012, manufacturers and users of hand-held voltage meters ensure devices meet critical safety benchmarks when handling hazardous mains circuits, supporting safe electrical measurement practices globally.

Standards Content (Sample)

IEC 61010-2-033 ®
Edition 1.0 2012-04
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
NORME
INTERNATIONALE
colour
inside
Safety requirements for electrical equipment for measurement, control, and
laboratory use –
Part 2-033: Particular requirements for HAND-HELD MULTIMETERS and other
METERS, for domestic and professional use, capable of measuring MAINS voltage

Règles de sécurité pour appareils électriques de mesurage, de régulation
et de laboratoire –
Partie 2-033: Exigences particulières pour les MULTIMÈTRES PORTATIFS et autres
MESUREURS, pour usage domestique et professionnel, capables de mesurer la
tension RÉSEAU
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IEC 61010-2-033 ®
Edition 1.0 2012-04
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
NORME
INTERNATIONALE
colour
inside
Safety requirements for electrical equipment for measurement, control, and

laboratory use –
Part 2-033: Particular requirements for HAND-HELD MULTIMETERS and other

METERS, for domestic and professional use, capable of measuring MAINS voltage

Règles de sécurité pour appareils électriques de mesurage, de régulation

et de laboratoire –
Partie 2-033: Exigences particulières pour les MULTIMÈTRES PORTATIFS et autres

MESUREURS, pour usage domestique et professionnel, capables de mesurer la

tension RÉSEAU
INTERNATIONAL
ELECTROTECHNICAL
COMMISSION
COMMISSION
ELECTROTECHNIQUE
PRICE CODE
INTERNATIONALE
V
CODE PRIX
ICS 19.080; 71.040.10 ISBN 978-2-8322-0076-6

– 2 – 61010-2-033  IEC:2012
CONTENTS
FOREWORD . 3

INTRODUCTION . 5

1 Scope and object . 6

2 Normative references. 7

3 Terms and definitions . 7

4 Tests . 8

5 Marking and documentation . 9

6 Protection against electric shock. 11
7 Protection against mechanical hazards . 14
8 Resistance to mechanical stress . 14
9 Protection against the spread of fire . 14
10 Equipment temperature limits and resistance to heat . 14
11 Protection against HAZARDS from fluids . 14
12 Protection against radiation, including laser sources, and against sonic and
ultrasonic pressure . 14
13 Protection against liberated gases and substances, explosion and implosion . 14
14 Components and subassemblies . 14
15 Protection by interlocks . 15
16 HAZARDS resulting from application . 15
17 RISK assessment . 16
101 Measuring circuits . 16
Annexes . 20
Annex K (normative) Insulation requirements not covered by 6.7 . 20
Annex L (informative) Index of defined terms . 25
Annex AA (normative) Measurement categories . 26
Annex BB (informative) Hazards pertaining to measurements performed in certain
environments . 29
Bibliography . 31

Figure 4 – Acceptable combinations of protective means against electric shock . 12

Figure AA.1 – Example to identify the locations of measuring circuits . 27

Table 101 – CLEARANCES and CREEPAGE DISTANCES for measuring circuit TERMINALS
with HAZARDOUS LIVE conductive parts . 13
Table 102 – Impulse withstand voltages . 15
Table K.101 – CLEARANCES for measuring circuits of MEASUREMENT CATEGORIES III and IV . 21
Table K.102 – Test voltages for testing electric strength of solid insulation in
measuring circuits of MEASUREMENT CATEGORY III . 22
Table K.103 –Test voltages for testing electric strength of solid insulation in measuring
circuits of MEASUREMENT CATEGORY IV . 22
Table K.104 – Test voltages for testing long term stress of solid insulation in
measuring circuits . 22
Table AA.1 – Characteristics of MEASUREMENT CATEGORIES . 28

61010-2-033  IEC:2012 – 3 –
INTERNATIONAL ELECTROTECHNICAL COMMISSION

____________
SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT

FOR MEASUREMENT, CONTROL, AND LABORATORY USE –

Part 2-033: Particular requirements for HAND-HELD MULTIMETERS

and other METERS, for domestic and professional use,

capable of measuring MAINS voltage

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 this preparatory work. International, governmental and non-
governmental organizations liaising with the IEC also participate in this preparation. IEC collaborates closely
with the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) in accordance with conditions determined by
agreement between the two organizations.
2) The formal decisions or agreements of IEC on technical matters express, as nearly as possible, an international
consensus of opinion on the relevant subjects since each technical committee has representation from all
interested IEC National Committees.
3) IEC Publications have the form of recommendations for international use and are accepted by IEC National
Committees in that sense. While all reasonable efforts are made to ensure that the technical content of IEC
Publications is accurate, IEC cannot be held responsible for the way in which they are used or for any
misinterpretation by any end user.
4) In order to promote international uniformity, IEC National Committees undertake to apply IEC Publications
transparently to the maximum extent possible in their national and regional publications. Any divergence
between any IEC Publication and the corresponding national or regional publication shall be clearly indicated in
the latter.
5) IEC itself does not provide any attestation of conformity. Independent certification bodies provide conformity
assessment services and, in some areas, access to IEC marks of conformity. IEC is not responsible for any
services carried out by independent certification bodies.
6) All users should ensure that they have the latest edition of this publication.
7) No liability shall attach to IEC or its directors, employees, servants or agents including individual experts and
members of its technical committees and IEC National Committees for any personal injury, property damage or
other damage of any nature whatsoever, whether direct or indirect, or for costs (including legal fees) and
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Publications.
8) Attention is drawn to the Normative references cited in this publication. Use of the referenced publications is
indispensable for the correct application of this publication.

9) Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this IEC Publication may be the subject of
patent rights. IEC shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights.
International Standard IEC 61010-2-33 has been prepared by IEC technical committee 66:
Safety of measuring, control and laboratory equipment.
The text of this standard is based on the following documents:
FDIS Report on voting
66/461/FDIS 66/464/RVD
Full information on the voting for the approval of this standard can be found in the report on
voting indicated in the above table.

– 4 – 61010-2-033  IEC:2012
This Part 2-033 is to be used in conjunction with third edition of IEC 61010-1 (2010), on the

basis of which It was established. Consideration may be given to future editions of, or

amendments to, IEC 61010-1.
This Part 2-033 supplements or modifies the corresponding clauses in IEC 61010-1 so as to

convert that publication into the IEC standard: Particular requirements for HAND-HELD

MULTIMETERS and other METERS, for domestic and professional use, capable of measuring

MAINS voltage.
Where a particular subclause of Part 1 is not mentioned in this Part 2-033, that subclause

applies as far as is reasonable. Where this part states “addition”, “modification”,

“replacement”, or “deletion” the relevant requirement, test specification or note in Part 1
should be adapted accordingly.
In this standard:
a) the following print types are used:
– requirements: in roman type;
– NOTES: in small roman type;
– conformity and test: in italic type;
– terms used throughout this standard which have been defined in Clause 3: SMALL
ROMAN CAPITALS;
b) subclauses, figures, tables and notes which are additional to those in Part 1 are numbered
starting from 101. Additional annexes are numbered AA and BB.
This publication has been drafted in accordance with the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2.
A list of all the parts in the IEC 61010 series, published under the general title Safety
requirements for electrical equipment for measurement, control, and laboratory use, can be
found on the IEC website.
The committee has decided that the contents of this publication will remain unchanged until
the stability date indicated on the IEC web site under "http://webstore.iec.ch" in the data
related to the specific publication. At this date, the publication will be
• reconfirmed,
• withdrawn,
• replaced by a revised edition, or
• amended.
IMPORTANT – The 'colour inside' logo on the cover page of this publication indicates
that it contains colours which are considered to be useful for the correct
understanding of its contents. Users should therefore print this document using a
colour printer.
61010-2-033  IEC:2012 – 5 –
INTRODUCTION
IEC 61010-1 specifies the safety requirements that are generally applicable to all equipment

within its scope. For certain types of equipment, the requirements of IEC 61010-1 will be

supplemented or modified by the special requirements of one, or more than one, particular

part 2‘s of the standard which must be read in conjunction with the Part 1 requirements.

This Part 2-033 specifies the safety requirements for HAND HELD METERS that have a primary

purpose of measuring voltage on a live MAINS CIRCUIT.

Part 2-032 specifies the safety requirements that are generally applicable to HAND-HELD and

hand-manipulated current sensors.
Part 2-030 specifies the safety requirements for testing and measuring circuits which are
connected for test or measurement purposes to devices or circuits outside the measurement
equipment itself.
VOLTMETER and similar equipment that are not within the scope of Part 2-033 are considered
to be covered by the requirements of Part 2-030 or Part 2-032. But for equipment within the
scopes of both Part 2-032 and Part 2-033, the two standards must be read in conjunction.

– 6 – 61010-2-033  IEC:2012
SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT

FOR MEASUREMENT, CONTROL, AND LABORATORY USE –

Part 2-033: Particular requirements for HAND-HELD MULTIMETERS

and other METERS, for domestic and professional use,

capable of measuring MAINS voltage

1 Scope and object
This clause of Part 1 is applicable except as follows:
1.1.1 Equipment included in scope
Replacement:
Replace the existing text with the following:
This part of IEC 61010 specifies safety requirements for METERS.
The METERS that have a primary purpose of measuring voltage on a live MAINS CIRCUIT are
within the scope of this standard. They have various names, but all of them have capability for
measurements of voltages on a live MAINS CIRCUIT. Some of the names given to this
equipment are as follows:
– MULTIMETER;
– digital MULTIMETER;
– VOLTMETER;
– clamp METER (see also Part 2-032).
For the purpose of this standard, the term METER is used for these HAND-HELD measuring
instruments.
NOTE Parts of the equipment that are not within the scope of this Part 2-033 are considered to be covered by the
requirements of Part 1 or other part 2's of IEC 61010 and then will also need to meet the requirements of these
other parts.
1.1.2 Equipment excluded from scope

Addition:
Add the following new item to the list:
aa) IEC 61557 (Electrical safety in low voltage distribution systems up to 1 000 V a.c. and
1 500 V d.c. – Equipment for testing, measuring or monitoring of protective measures –
Parts 1 through 12).
Addition:
Add the two following paragraphs at the end of the subclause:
Equipment that is not capable of measuring MAINS voltages is not within the scope of this
Part 2-033. See IEC 61010-2-030 for requirements pertaining to such equipment.

61010-2-033  IEC:2012 – 7 –
Such equipment, including other HAND-HELD equipment such as oscilloscopes, wattmeters,

process control MULTIMETERS, and communications test sets is not within the scope of this

Part 2-033.
1.2.1 Aspects included in scope

Addition:
Add the following paragraph at the end of the subclause:

Requirements for protection against HAZARDS resulting from NORMAL USE and REASONABLY

of measuring circuits are given in Clause 101.
FORESEEABLE MISUSE
2 Normative references
This clause of Part 1 is applicable.
3 Terms and definitions
This clause of Part 1 is applicable except as follows:
3.1 Equipment and states of equipment
Addition:
Add the following new definitions:
3.1.101
MULTIMETER
multirange multifunction measuring instrument intended to measure voltage and sometimes
other electrical quantities such as current and resistance
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-300:2001, 312-02-24, modified]
3.1.102
VOLTMETER
instrument intended to measure the value of a voltage
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-300:2001, 313-01-03]

3.1.103
METER
voltage measuring instrument which is either a HAND-HELD VOLTMETER or a HAND-HELD
MULTIMETER
3.1.104
HAND-HELD (equipment)
intended to be supported by one hand during NORMAL USE
3.5 Safety terms
Replacement:
Replace definitions 3.5.4 and 3.5.5 with the following new definitions:

– 8 – 61010-2-033  IEC:2012
3.5.4
MAINS
low voltage electricity supply system to which the METER concerned is designed to be

connected for the purposes of measurements

3.5.5
MAINS CIRCUIT
circuit which is intended to be directly connected to the MAINS for measurements

Addition:
Add the following new definition:
3.5.101
MEASUREMENT CATEGORY
classification of testing and measuring circuits according to the type of MAINS CIRCUITS to
which they are intended to be connected
NOTE MEASUREMENT CATEGORIES take into account OVERVOLTAGE CATEGORIES, short-circuit current levels, the
location in the building installation at which the test or measurement is to be made, and some forms of energy
limitation or transient protection included in the building installation. See Annex AA for more information.
4 Tests
This clause of Part 1 is applicable except as follows:
4.4.2 Application of fault conditions
4.4.2.1 General
Replacement:
Replace the first sentence with the following text:
Fault conditions shall include those specified in 4.4.2.2 to 4.4.2.14 and in 4.4.2.101.
Addition:
Add the following new subclause:

4.4.2.101 Input voltages
For measuring circuit TERMINALS RATED for MAINS CIRCUITS voltage measurements:
a) up to 600 V a.c. r.m.s., the voltage applied to the TERMINALS is the RATED voltage
multiplied by 1,90 but not to exceed 920 V a.c. r.m.s.;
b) above 600 V a.c. r.m.s. and up to 1 000 V a.c. r.m.s., the voltage applied to the TERMINALS
is 1 100 V a.c. r.m.s.;
c) above 1 000 V a.c. r.m.s., the voltage applied to the TERMINALS is the RATED voltage
multiplied by 1,1;
d) of d.c. voltage, the d.c. voltage applied to the TERMINALS is the RATED voltage multiplied by
1,1.
These voltages are applied with the METER set to each voltage measurement range capable of
MAINS voltage measurements.
61010-2-033  IEC:2012 – 9 –
NOTE The 1,9 multiplication factor is derived from phase-to-phase voltage measurements with a 10 %

overvoltage condition.
5 Marking and documentation
This clause of Part 1 is applicable except as follows:

5.1.2 Identification
Addition:
Add the following note after the existing note:
NOTE 101 Some national regulations might require a marking to indicate the name and edition of the standard
used for compliance evaluation.
5.1.5 TERMINALS, connections, and operating devices
5.1.5.1 General
Replacement:
Replace the first paragraph with the following:
TERMINALS, connectors,
If necessary for safety, an indication shall be given of the purpose of
controls, and indicators. Where there is insufficient space, symbol 14 from Table 1 may be
used.
5.1.5.2 TERMINALS
Replacement:
Replace existing item d) with the following item d):
TERMINALS supplied from the interior of the equipment or from other TERMINALS and which
d)
could be HAZARDOUS LIVE, with the voltage, current, charge or energy value or range, or
with symbol 12 of Table 1.
Addition:
Add the following new subclause:
5.1.5.101 Measuring circuit TERMINALS
Measuring circuit TERMINALS shall be marked with the value of the RATED voltage to earth.
Each pair or set of measuring circuit TERMINALS that are intended to be used together shall be
RATED voltage or the RATED current as applicable to the pair or
marked with the value of the
set of TERMINALS.
NOTE Measuring circuit TERMINALS are usually arranged in pairs or sets. Each pair or set of TERMINALS may have
a RATED voltage or a RATED current, or both, within that set, and each individual TERMINAL will have a RATED voltage
to earth. For some equipment, the measurement RATED voltage (between TERMINALS) is different from the RATED
voltage to earth.
Measuring circuit TERMINALS RATED for MAINS CIRCUITS voltage measurements shall be
additionally marked “CAT lll” or “CAT IV” as applicable.

– 10 – 61010-2-033  IEC:2012
Measuring circuit TERMINALS that do not have a RATING for connection to voltages above the

levels of 6.3.1, may be marked with alternative markings.

Measuring circuit TERMINALS which are dedicated only for connection to specific TERMINALS of

other equipment need not be marked, provided that there is a means for identifying these

TERMINALS.
TERMINALS markings shall be visible when the equipment is ready for NORMAL USE with

connectors and TERMINALS mated and shall reference the applicable TERMINALS.

Conformity is checked by inspection.

5.2 Warning markings
Replacement:
Replace the existing text with the following text:
Warning markings specified in 5.1.5.2 d), 6.1.2 b), 6.6.2, 7.3.2 b) 3), 7.4, 10.1, and 13.2.2
shall meet the following requirements.
Warning markings shall be visible when the equipment is ready for NORMAL USE. If a warning
applies to a particular part of the equipment, the marking shall be placed on or near the part.
The size of warning markings shall be as follows.
a) Symbols shall be at least 2,75 mm high. Text shall be at least 1,5 mm high and contrast in
colour with the background.
b) Symbols or text moulded, stamped or engraved in a material shall be at least 2,0 mm
high. If not contrasting in colour, they shall have a depth or raised height of at least
0,5 mm.
If it is necessary for the RESPONSIBLE BODY or OPERATOR to refer to the instruction manual to
preserve the protection afforded by the equipment, the equipment shall be marked with
symbol 14 of Table 1. Symbol 14 is not required to be used with symbols which are explained
in the manual.
If the instructions for use state that an OPERATOR is permitted to gain access, using a TOOL, to
a part which in NORMAL USE may be HAZARDOUS LIVE, there shall be a warning marking which
states that the equipment must be isolated or disconnected from the HAZARDOUS LIVE voltage
before access.
NOTE National regulations may require safety markings in a nationally accepted language.
Conformity is checked by inspection.
5.4.1 General
Replacement:
Replace the first paragraph with the following paragraph:
The following documentation necessary for safety purposes, as needed by the OPERATOR or
the RESPONSIBLE BODY, shall be provided with the equipment, in an accepted language of the
country where the product is intended to be placed on the market. Safety documentation for
service personnel authorized by the manufacturer shall be made available to those personnel,
in a language selected by the manufacturer.

61010-2-033  IEC:2012 – 11 –
Addition:
Add the two new following items to the list:

aa) the documentation shall indicate that probe assemblies to be used for MAINS

measurements shall be RATED as appropriate for MEASUREMENT CATEGORY III or IV

according to IEC 61010-031 and shall have a voltage RATING of at least the voltage of the

circuit to be measured;
bb) information about each relevant MEASUREMENT CATEGORY (see 5.1.5.101). If the METER

has multiple MEASUREMENT CATEGORY RATINGS for the same measuring circuit, the

documentation shall clearly identify the MEASUREMENT CATEGORIES where the equipment
may be used and where it must not be used.
6 Protection against electric shock
This clause of Part 1 is applicable except as follows:
6.5.1 General
Replacement of the text, conformity statement, and Figure 4 with the following text, conformity
statement and Figure 4:
ACCESSIBLE parts shall be prevented from becoming HAZARDOUS LIVE in SINGLE FAULT
CONDITION. The primary means of protection (see 6.4) shall be supplemented by one of a) or
b). Alternatively, one of the single means of protection c) or d) shall be used. See Figure 4
and Annex D.
UPPLEMENTARY INSULATION (see 6.5.3).
a) S
b) Current or voltage limiting device (see 6.5.6).
EINFORCED INSULATION (see 6.5.3).
c) R
d) PROTECTIVE IMPEDANCE (see 6.5.4).
Conformity is checked by inspection and as specified in 6.5.3, 6.5.4, or 6.5.6, as applicable.

– 12 – 61010-2-033  IEC:2012
HAZAR DOUS LIVE part
6.4.1 b) 6.4.1 a) 6.4.1 c)
BASIC ENCLOSURE or
Impedance
INSULATION
BARRIER
6.5.1 d)
6.5.1 c)
REINFORCED PROTECTIVE
and
INSLATION IMPEDANCE
6.5.1 b)
6.5.1 a)
Current or
SUPPLEMENTARY voltage-limiting
INSULATION device
ACCESSIBLE part
IEC  518/12
Figure 4 – Acceptable combinations of protective means against electric shock
6.5.2 PROTECTIVE BONDING
Replacement:
Replace the title and text with the following:
6.5.2 Not used
6.5.5 Automatic disconnection of the supply
Replacement:
Replace the title and text with the following:
6.5.5 Not used
6.6 Connections to external circuits
Addition:
Add the following two new subclauses:
6.6.101 Measuring circuit TERMINALS
Conductive parts of each unmated measuring circuit TERMINAL which could become
HAZARDOUS LIVE when the highest RATED voltage is applied to other measuring circuit
TERMINALS on the equipment shall be separated by at least the applicable CLEARANCE and
DOUBLE INSULATION
61010-2-033  IEC:2012 – 13 –
CREEPAGE DISTANCE of Table 101 from the closest approach of the test finger touching the

external parts of the TERMINAL in the least favourable position (see Figure 1 of Part 1).

Table 101 – CLEARANCES and CREEPAGE DISTANCES for measuring circuit TERMINALS

with HAZARDOUS LIVE conductive parts

CLEARANCE and
Voltage on conductive parts of TERMINAL
CREEPAGE DISTANCE
V a.c. r.m.s. V d.c. mm
300 300 0,8
> 300 ≤ 600 > 300 ≤ 848 1,0
> 600 ≤ 1 000 > 848 ≤ 1 414 2,6
Conformity is checked by inspection and measurement.
6.6.102 Specialized measuring circuit TERMINALS
Components, sensors, and devices intended to be connected to specialized measuring circuit
TERMINALS shall not be both ACCESSIBLE and HAZARDOUS LIVE, in either NORMAL CONDITION or
SINGLE-FAULT CONDITION, even when the highest RATED voltage is applied to any other
measuring circuit TERMINAL.
NOTE These specialized TERMINALS include, but are not limited to, TERMINALS for semiconductor measuring
functions, capacitance measurements, and thermocouple sockets.
Conformity is checked by inspection and measurement. Components, sensors, and devices
intended to be connected to specialized measuring circuit TERMINALS are connected. The
measurements of 6.3 are made to establish that the levels of 6.3.1 and 6.3.2 are not
exceeded when each of the following voltages is applied to each other measuring circuit
TERMINAL, if applicable:
a) highest RATED a.c. voltage at any RATED MAINS frequency;
b) highest RATED d.c. voltage;
c) highest RATED a.c. voltage at the maximum RATED measurement frequency.
6.7.1.5 Requirements for insulation according to type of circuit
Addition:
Add the following new item to the list:

aa) in K.101 for measuring circuits of MEASUREMENT CATEGORIES III and IV.
Replacement:
Replace existing Note 2 with the following note:
NOTE 2 Not used.
6.9 Constructional requirements for protection against electric shock
Addition:
Add the following new subclause:

– 14 – 61010-2-033  IEC:2012
6.9.101 METER RATINGS
Measuring circuit TERMINALS capable of MAINS voltage measurements shall be RATED for a
minimum of 300 V a.c. r.m.s. to earth, and a minimum MEASUREMENT CATEGORY III.

The RATED voltage of measuring circuit TERMINALS capable of MAINS voltage measurements
shall be equal to or higher than the RATED voltage to earth of the TERMINALS.

NOTE These TERMINALS can also have other RATINGS for other functions.

Conformity is checked by inspection.

7 Protection against mechanical hazards
This clause of Part 1 is applicable.
8 Resistance to mechanical stress
This clause of Part 1 is applicable.
9 Protection against the spread of fire
This clause of Part 1 is applicable.
10 Equipment temperature limits and resistance to heat
This clause of Part 1 is applicable.
11 Protection against HAZARDS from fluids
This clause of Part 1 is applicable.
12 Protection against radiation, including laser sources, and against sonic
and ultrasonic pressure
This clause of Part 1 is applicable.

13 Protection against liberated gases and substances, explosion and
implosion
This clause of Part 1 is applicable.
14 Components and subassemblies
This clause of Part 1 is applicable, except as follows.
Addition:
Add the following new subclauses:

61010-2-033  IEC:2012 – 15 –
14.101 Circuits or components used as TRANSIENT OVERVOLTAGE limiting devices in

measuring circuits used to measure MAINS

If control of TRANSIENT OVERVOLTAGE is employed in a measuring circuit used to measure

MAINS, any overvoltage limiting component or circuit shall have adequate strength to limit

likely TRANSIENT OVERVOLTAGES in NORMAL USE.

Conformity is checked by applying 5 positive and 5 negative impulses with the applicable

impulse withstand voltage of Table 102, spaced up to 1 min apart, from a hybrid impulse
generator (see IEC 61180-1). The generator produces an open-circuit voltage waveform of

1,2/50 μs, a short-circuit current waveform of 8/20 μs, with an output impedance (peak open-

circuit voltage divided by peak short-circuit current) of 2 Ω. Resistance may be added in
series if needed to raise the impedance. The test impulse is applied in combination with the
MAINS voltage. The MAINS voltage is the highest RATED voltage of the measuring circuit
TERMINALS, but no more than 400 V a.c. r.m.s.
The test voltage is applied between each pair of TERMINALS, used to measure MAINS, where
voltage-limiting devices are present.
NOTE This test can be extremely hazardous. Explosion shields and other provisions can be used to protect
personnel performing the test.
No HAZARD shall arise due to the operation of overvoltage limiting component. The component
shall not rupture and shall operate as intended during the test. If the component is heated as
a result of this test, it shall not heat other materials to their ignition points. Tripping the circuit
breaker of the MAINS installation is an indication of failure. If the results of the test are
questionable or inconclusive, the test is to be repeated two more times.
Table 102 – Impulse withstand voltages
Nominal a.c. r.m.s. Impulse withstand voltage
line-to-neutral or d.c.
voltage of MAINS V
being measured
MEASUREMENT MEASUREMENT
CATEGORY III CATEGORY IV
V
300 4 000 6 000
> 300 ≤ 600 6 000 8 000
> 600 ≤ 1 000 8 000 12 000
14.102 Probe assemblies and accessories
Probe assemblies and accessories within the scope of IEC 61010-031 shall meet the
requirements thereof.
Conformity is checked by inspection.
15 Protection by interlocks
This clause of Part 1 is applicable.
16 HAZARDS resulting from application
This clause of Part 1 is applicable except as follows:

– 16 – 61010-2-033  IEC:2012
Addition:
Add the following new subclause:

16.101 Over-range indication
If a HAZARD could arise from an OPERATOR'S reliance on the value (for example, voltage)

displayed by the equipment, the display shall give an unambiguous indication whenever the

value is above the maximum positive value or below the minimum negative value of the range

to which the equipment is set.

NOTE Examples of ambiguous indications include the following, unless there is a separate unambiguous
indication of an over-range value:
a) analogue METERS with stops at the exact ends of the range;
b) digital METERS which show a low value when the true value is above the range maximum (for example
1 001,5 V displayed as 001,5 V).
Conformity is checked by inspection and by provoking an over-range condition.
17 RISK assessment
This clause of Part 1 is applicable.
Addition:
Add the following new clause:
101 Measuring circuits
101.1 General
The equipment shall provide protection against HAZARDS resulting from NORMAL USE and
REASONABLY FORESEEABLE MISUSE of measuring circuits, as specified below.
a) If a HAZARD could result, a current measuring circuit shall not interrupt the circuit being
measured during range changing, or during the use of current transformers without
internal protection (see 101.2).
b) An electrical quantity that is within specification for any TERMINAL shall not cause a HAZARD
when it is applied to that TERMINAL or any other compatible TERMINAL, with the range and

function settings set in any possible manner (see 101.3).
c) Any interconnections between the equipment and other devices or accessories intended
to be used with the equipment shall not cause a HAZARD even if the documentation or
markings prohibit the interconnection while the equipment is used for measurement
purposes (see 6.6).
d) Other HAZARDS that could result from REASONABLY FORESEEABLE MISUSE shall be addressed
by RISK assessment (see Clauses 16 and 17).
Conformity is checked as specified in 6.6, 101.2, 101.3, Clause 16 and Clause 17 as
applicable.
101.2 Current measuring circuits
Current measuring circuits shall be so designed that, when range changing takes place, there
shall be no interruption which could cause a HAZARD.

61010-2-033  IEC:2012 – 17 –
Conformity is checked by inspection, and, in case of doubt, by causing the device to switch

the maximum RATED current 6 000 times.

Current measuring circuits intended for connection to current transformers without internal

protection shall be adequately protected to prevent a HAZARD arising from interruption of these

circuits during operation.
Conformity is checked by inspection, by overload tests at a value of 10 times the maximum

RATED current for 1 s, and by causing the device to switch the maximum RATED current 6 000

times. No interruption which could cause a HAZARD shall occur during the tests.

101.3 Protection against mismatches of inputs and ranges
101.3.1 General
In NORMAL CONDITION and in cases of REASONABLY FORESEEABLE MISUSE, no HAZARD shall arise
when the highest RATED voltage or current of a measuring circuit TERMINAL is applied to any
other compatible TERMINAL, with any combination of function and range settings.
NOTE 1 Mismatches of inputs and ranges are examples of REASONABLY FORESEEABLE MISUSE, even if the
documentation or markings prohibit such mismatch. A typical example is inadvertent connection of a high voltage to
a measuring input intended for current or resistance. Possible HAZARDS include electric shock, burns, fire, arcing
and explosion.
NOTE 2 TERMINALS that are clearly not of similar types and that will not retain the TERMINALS of the probe or
accessory need not be tested.
The equipment shall provide protection against these HAZARDS. One of the following
techniques shall be used.
a) Use of a certified overcurrent protection device to interrupt short-circuit currents before a
HAZARD arises. In this case, the requirements and test of 101.3.2 apply.
b) Use an uncertified current limitation device, an impedance, or a combination of both to
prevent the HAZARD from arising. In this case, the tests of 101.3.3 apply.
Conformity is checked by inspection, evaluation of the design of the equipment, and as
specified in 101.3.2 to 101.3.3, as applicable.
These tests shall be performed with any probe assemblies supplied by the manufacturer, and
repeated with the test leads of 101.3.4.
101.3.2 Protection by a certified overcurrent protection device

An overcurrent protection device is considered suitable if it is certified by an independent
laboratory to meet all of the following requirements.
a) The a.c. and d.c. RATED voltages of the overcurrent protection device shall be at least as
high as, respectively, the highest a.c. and d.c. RATED voltages of any measuring circuit
TERMINAL on the equipment.
RATED time-current characteristic (speed) of the overcurrent protection device shall be
b) The
such that no HAZARD will result from any possible combination of RATED input voltages,
TERMINALS, and range selection.
NOTE In practice, downstream circuit elements such as components and printed wiring board traces are
selected to be able to withstand the energy that the overcurrent protection device will let through.
c) The a.c. and d.c. RATED breaking capacities of the overcurrent protection device shall
exceed, respectively, the possible a.c. and d.c. short-circuit currents.
The possible a.c. and d.c. short-circuit currents are calculated as the highest RATED
voltage for any TERMINAL divided by the impedance of the overcurrent-protected

– 18 – 61010-2-033  IEC:2012
measuring circuit, taking the impedance of the test leads specified in 101.3.4 into account.

The possible a.c. short-circuit current need not exceed the applicable value of Table AA.1.

Additionally, spacings surrounding the overcurrent protection device in the equipment and

following the protection device in the measuring circuit shall be sufficiently large to prevent

arcing after the protection device opens.

Conformity is checked by inspection of the RATINGS of the overcurrent protection device and

by the following test.
If the protection device is a fuse, it is replaced with an open-circuited fuse. If the protection

device is a circuit breaker, it is set to its open position. A voltage of two times the highest
RATED voltage for any TERMINAL is applied to the TERMINALS of the overcurrent-protected
measuring circuit for 1 min. The source of the test voltage shall be capable of delivering
500 VA. During and after the test, no damage to the equipment shall occur.
101.3.3 Protection by uncertified current limitation devices or by impedances
Devices used for current limitation shall be capable of safely withstanding, dissipating, or
interrupting the energy that will be applied as a result of short-circuit current in the case of
REASONABLY FORESEEABLE MISUSE.
An impedance used for limitation of current shall be one or more of the following.
a) An appropriate single component which is constructed, selected, and tested so that safety
and reliability for protection against relevant HAZARDS is assured. In particular, the
component shall
1) be RATED for the maximum voltage that may be present during the REASONABLY
FORESEEABLE MISUSE
...