IEC 62841-4-2:2017/AMD1:2022

Amendment 1 - Electric motor-operated hand-held tools, transportable tools and lawn and garden machinery - Safety - Part 4-2: Particular requirements for hedge trimmers

Amendement 1 - Outils électroportatifs à moteur, outils portables et machines pour jardins et pelouses - Sécurité - Partie 4-2: Exigences particulières pour les taille-haies

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 10-May-2022
• ICS: 25.140.20 - Electric tools
• Technical Committee: TC 116 - Safety of motor-operated electric tools
• Drafting Committee: WG 10 - TC 116/WG 10
• Current Stage: PPUB - Publication issued
• Start Date: 11-May-2022
• Completion Date: 27-May-2022

Relations

• Amends: IEC 62841-4-2:2017 - Electric motor-operated hand-held tools, transportable tools and lawn and garden machinery - Safety - Part 4-2: Particular requirements for hedge trimmers
• Effective Date: 05-Sep-2023

Overview

IEC 62841-4-2:2017/AMD1:2022 is the latest amendment to the international standard governing the safety of electric motor-operated hand-held tools, transportable tools, and lawn and garden machinery. Specifically, this document addresses particular safety requirements for hedge trimmers. Developed and published by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), this amendment updates safety guidelines to enhance user protection, ensure consistent manufacturing standards, and reduce risk associated with hedge trimmer operation.

This standard amendment reflects global consensus on safety practices that manufacturers, testing agencies, and regulatory bodies should adopt to minimize hazards during use, transport, and maintenance of motor-operated hedge trimmers.

Key Topics

• Safety Requirements for Hedge Trimmers
  The amendment defines detailed safety instructions covering operational hazards such as electrical shock, blade injuries, and noise exposure. It mandates inclusion of clear warning labels and protective equipment recommendations to reduce accident risks.

• Marking and Instructions
  Updated requirements include specific safety markings such as:

  • Wear ear protection icon if sound pressure exceeds 85 dB(A).
  • Danger signs for hand safety, electrical hazards, and weather warnings.
  • Instructions against use in wet conditions or near power lines.

• Maximum Speed Definition
  Introduces precise terminology for the highest steady-state cutting device speed under normal use, excluding transient overshoot.

• Testing Provisions
  Requires manufacturers to provide special hardware or software samples for machines that cannot reach maximum speed under no-load conditions to facilitate thorough testing.

• Extended Reach Hedge Trimmers
  Additional safety warnings apply to extended-reach models, emphasizing head protection, two-handed operation, and strict avoidance of electrical power lines during use.

• Emission and Vibration Information
  Guidance on noise emission levels (A-weighted sound pressure and sound power) and vibration exposure is provided to ensure operators are informed and adequately protected. Specific recommendations include:

  • Declaring noise levels and their uncertainties.
  • Advising hearing protection when noise exceeds 85 dB(A).
  • Reporting vibration total values and associated uncertainties, along with warnings about actual operating vibration variability.

• Normative References
  The amendment adds relevant IEC references on insulation coordination for low-voltage systems to address electrical safety comprehensively.

Applications

• Manufacturers
  Equipment manufacturers use this standard amendment to design, produce, and label hedge trimmers compliant with internationally recognized safety norms. This ensures product acceptance across markets and enhances consumer trust.

• Testing Laboratories
  Testing agencies apply the amendment’s detailed test conditions and performance criteria to certify hedge trimmers for safe operation, including resilience under variable speed and environmental conditions.

• Regulatory Authorities
  Governments and standards organizations adopt these amendments as part of national safety regulations to regulate import, sale, and use of motor-operated hedge trimmers, helping reduce accidents and occupational hazards.

• End-Users and Safety Professionals
  The recommended safety instructions and markings assist operators in understanding risks and using appropriate personal protective equipment such as ear defenders, gloves, and headgear when handling hedge trimmers.

Related Standards

• IEC 60335-2-94 and IEC 62841-4-5
  These standards cover related garden tools such as scissors-type grass shears and other portable electric cutting machinery, providing complementary safety requirements.

• IEC 60664-3:2016 and IEC 60664-4:2005
  Address insulation coordination and protection against electrical pollution and high-frequency stresses, supporting robust electrical safety in garden machinery.

• ISO 7010
  Provides standardized safety signs referenced for markings in this amendment, ensuring universally recognizable hazard communication.

Practical Value

IEC 62841-4-2:2017/AMD1:2022 delivers clear, actionable safety requirements for hedge trimmer manufacturers and users worldwide by:

• Promoting safer design and operation practices.
• Reducing electrical, mechanical, and acoustic hazards.
• Providing standardized instructions and warning labels to enhance user awareness.
• Enabling regulatory compliance and certification across international markets.
• Supporting the development of effective protective measures such as hearing protection and insulated gripping surfaces.

By adhering to this amendment, stakeholders contribute to safer lawn and garden environments, reducing injuries and fostering sustainable use of electric motor-operated hedge trimming tools.

Standards Content (Sample)

IEC 62841-4-2 ®
Edition 1.0 2022-05
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
NORME
INTERNATIONALE
A MENDMENT 1
AM ENDEMENT 1
Electric motor-operated hand-held tools, transportable tools and lawn and
garden machinery – Safety –
Part 4-2: Particular requirements for hedge trimmers

Outils électroportatifs à moteur, outils portables et machines pour jardins et
pelouses – Sécurité –
Partie 4-2: Exigences particulières pour les taille-haies

IEC 62841-4-2:2017-12/AMD1:2022-05(en-fr)

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IEC 62841-4-2 ®
Edition 1.0 2022-05
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
NORME
INTERNATIONALE
A MENDMENT 1
AM ENDEMENT 1
Electric motor-operated hand-held tools, transportable tools and lawn and
garden machinery – Safety –
Part 4-2: Particular requirements for hedge trimmers
Outils électroportatifs à moteur, outils portables et machines pour jardins et
pelouses – Sécurité –
Partie 4-2: Exigences particulières pour les taille-haies
INTERNATIONAL
ELECTROTECHNICAL
COMMISSION
COMMISSION
ELECTROTECHNIQUE
INTERNATIONALE
ICS 25.140.20 ISBN 978-2-8322-0170-1
– 2 – IEC 62841-4-2:2017/AMD1:2022
© IEC 2022
INTERNATIONAL ELECTROTECHNICAL COMMISSION
____________
ELECTRIC MOTOR-OPERATED HAND-HELD TOOLS,
TRANSPORTABLE TOOLS AND LAWN
AND GARDEN MACHINERY – SAFETY –

Part 4-2: Particular requirements for hedge trimmers

AMENDMENT 1
FOREWORD
1) The Interational 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,
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preparation is entrusted to technical committees; any IEC National Committee interested in the subject dealt with
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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
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3) IEC Publications have the form of recommendations for international use and are accepted by IEC National
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indispensable for the correct application of this publication.
9) Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this document may be the subject of patent
rights. IEC shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights.
Amendment 1 to IEC 62841-4-2:2017 has been prepared by IEC technical committee 116:
Safety of motor-operated electric tools.
The text of this Amendment is based on the following documents:
Draft Report on voting
116/578/FDIS 116/586/RVD
Full information on the voting for its approval can be found in the report on voting indicated in
the above table.
The language used for the development of this Amendment is English.

© IEC 2022
This document was drafted in accordance with ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2, and developed in
accordance with ISO/IEC Directives, Part 1 and ISO/IEC Directives, IEC Supplement, available
at www.iec.ch/members_experts/refdocs. The main document types developed by IEC are
described in greater detail at www.iec.ch/standardsdev/publications/.
The committee has decided that the contents of this document will remain unchanged until the
stability date indicated on the IEC website under webstore.iec.ch in the data related to the
specific document. At this date, the document will be
• reconfirmed,
• withdrawn,
• replaced by a revised edition, or
• amended.
NOTE The attention of National Committees is drawn to the fact that equipment manufacturers and testing
organizations may need a transitional period following publication of a new, amended or revised IEC publication in
which to make products in accordance with the new requirements and to equip themselves for conducting new or
revised tests.
It is the recommendation of the committee that the content of this publication be adopted for implementation nationally
not earlier than 36 months from the date of publication.

___________
INTRODUCTION
Add the following new Introduction:
INTRODUCTION
The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) draws attention to the fact that it is claimed
that compliance with this document may involve the use of a patent. IEC takes no position
concerning the evidence, validity, and scope of this patent right.
The holder of this patent right has assured IEC that s/he is willing to negotiate licences under
reasonable and non-discriminatory terms and conditions with applicants throughout the world.
In this respect, the statement of the holder of this patent right is registered with IEC. Information
may be obtained from the patent database available at patents.iec.ch.
Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this document may be the
subject of patent rights other than those in the patent database. IEC shall not be held
responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights.

1 Scope
Replace the existing text of NOTE 102 with the following new text:
NOTE 102 Scissors type grass shears are covered by IEC 60335-2-94 or IEC 62841-4-5.

– 4 – IEC 62841-4-2:2017/AMD1:2022
© IEC 2022
2 Normative references
Add the following new normative references:
IEC 60664-3:2016, Insulation coordination for equipment within low-voltage systems – Part 3:
Use of coating, potting or moulding for protection against pollution
IEC 60664-4:2005, Insulation coordination for equipment within low-voltage systems – Part 4:
Consideration of high-frequency voltage stress
3 Terms and definitions
Replace the existing text of 3.111 with the following new text:
3.111
maximum speed
highest steady-state cutting device speed attainable under all conditions of normal use,
including no-load, when adjusted in accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications and/or
instructions
Note 101 to entry: The steady-state cutting device speed excludes transients such as overshoot that may occur
before attaining a steady-state condition.
5 General conditions for the tests
Add the following new subclause:
5.103 For machines that do not attain maximum speed under no load conditions, the
manufacturer shall provide samples with special hardware and/or software in order to perform
the required tests.
8 Marking and instructions
8.2 Replace the first three dashes with the following:
– "Wear ear protection", a relevant safety sign of ISO 7010 or the safety sign specified in
Figure AA.7. This marking may be omitted if the measured emission sound pressure level
at the operator’s ear in accordance with Annex I does not exceed 85 dB(A); and
– " DANGER – Keep hands away from blade" or the safety sign specified in Figure AA.1 or
the safety sign specified in Figure AA.2.
Replace the fourth to seventh dashes with the following:
– " WARNING – Do not expose to rain" or the safety sign specified in Figure AA.3.
– " WARNING – Remove plug from the mains immediately if the cable is damaged or cut"
or the safety sign specified in Figure AA.4.
Replace the ninth dash with the following:
– " DANGER – Keep sufficient distance away from electrical power lines" or symbol C.2.30
of ISO 11684;
© IEC 2022
Add the following new subclause:
8.14.1.1 Addition to item 2) c):
For machines classified at least IPX4, the warning may be replaced as specified below.
c) Do not operate the machine in rain or wet conditions. Water entering the machine may
increase the risk of electric shock or malfunction that could result in personal injury.
Replace the existing text of 8.14.1.101 with the following new text:
8.14.1.101 Safety instructions for hedge trimmers
For Category 1 hedge trimmers that can be converted to a grass shear, the term "hedge
trimmer" may be replaced by alternate wording (e.g. "grass shear/hedge trimmer" or "grass
shear/shrub shear"). For this case, the verbatim warnings below need not be repeated for the
two configurations.
Hedge trimmer safety warnings:
a) Do not use the hedge trimmer in bad weather conditions, especially when there is a
risk of lightning. This decreases the risk of being struck by lightning.
b) Keep all power cords and cables away from cutting area. Power cords or cables may be
hidden in hedges or bushes and can be accidentally cut by the blade.
c) Wear ear protection. Adequate protective equipment will reduce the risk of hearing loss.
NOTE 101 This warning can be omitted if the measured emission sound pressure level at the operator’s ear in
accordance with Annex I does not exceed 85 dB(A).
d) Hold the hedge trimmer by insulated gripping surfaces only, because the blade may
contact hidden wiring or its own cord. Blades contacting a "live" wire may make exposed
metal parts of the hedge trimmer "live" and could give the operator an electric shock.
e) Keep all parts of the body away from the blade. Do not remove cut material or hold
material to be cut when blades are moving. Blades continue to move after the switch is
turned off. A moment of inattention while operating the hedge trimmer may result in serious
personal injury.
f) When clearing jammed material or servicing the hedge trimmer, make sure all power
switches are off and the power cord is disconnected. Unexpected actuation of the hedge
trimmer while clearing jammed material or servicing may result in serious personal injury.
g) Carry the hedge trimmer by the handle with the blade stopped and taking care not to
operate any power switch. Proper carrying of the hedge trimmer will decrease the risk of
inadvertent starting and resultant personal injury from the blades.
h) When transporting or storing the hedge trimmer, always use the blade cover. Proper
handling of the hedge trimmer will decrease the risk of personal injury from the blades.
Replace the existing text of 8.14.1.102 with the following new text:
8.14.1.102 Additional safety instructions for extended-reach hedge trimmers
Extended-reach hedge trimmer safety warnings:
a) Always use head protection when operating the extended-reach hedge trimmer
overhead. Falling debris can result in serious personal injury.
NOTE 101 Alternate wording for "extended-reach" is possible, e.g. "pole" or "long reach".
b) Always use two hands when operating the extended-reach hedge trimmer. Hold the
extended-reach hedge trimmer with both hands to avoid loss of control.

– 6 – IEC 62841-4-2:2017/AMD1:2022
© IEC 2022
c) To reduce the risk of electrocution, never use the extended-reach hedge trimmer near
any electrical power lines. Contact with or use near power lines may cause serious injury
or electric shock resulting in death.
8.14.2 Add the following new text after the existing text of 8.14.2 c):
Replacement of the NOTE:
NOTE In Europe (EN IEC 62841-4-2), the following additional requirements apply:
Emissions
1) The noise emission, measured in accordance with Clause I.2, as follows:
– A-weighted emission sound pressure level L and its uncertainty K , where L exceeds 70 dB(A).
pA pA pA
Where L does not exceed 70 dB(A), this fact shall be indicated;
pA
– the A-weighted measured and guaranteed sound power levels L ;
WA
2) Recommendation for the operator to wear hearing protection.
3) The vibration total value and its uncertainty measured in accordance with Clause I.3. When the vibration
2 2
total value does not exceed 2,5 m/s , this shall be stated. When the vibration total value exceeds 2,5 m/s ,
its value shall be given in the instructions.
4) The following information:
– that the declared vibration total value(s) and the declared noise emission value(s) has been measured
in accordance with a standard test method and may be used for comparing one machine with another;
– that the declared vibration total value(s) and the declared noise emission value(s) may also be used in
a preliminary assessment of exposure.
5) A warning:
– that the vibration during actual use of the machine can differ from the declared total value depending
on the ways in which the machine is used; and
– of the need to identify safety measures to protect the operator that are based on an estimation of
exposure in the actual conditions of use (taking account of all parts of the operating cycle such as the
times when the machine is switched off and when it is running idle in addition to the trigger time).
14 Moisture resistance
Replace the existing text of 14.2.1 with the following new text:
14.2.1 Replacement:
The machine is not connected to the supply.
The machine is placed in its normal rest position on a perforated turntable. The turntable is then
turned continuously at (1 ± 0,1) r /min during the test.
Detachable parts are removed and subjected, if necessary, to the relevant treatment with the
main part. Movable covers that are non-detachable parts and are not self-restoring are placed
in the most unfavourable position.
NOTE Examples of self-restoring covers include those that are spring loaded or close by gravity.
Replace the existing text of 14.2.2 with the following new text:
14.2.2  Add the following new text:
Replacement of the last paragraph:
Immediately after the appropriate treatment, the machine shall withstand the electric strength
test of Annex D between live parts and accessible parts, the test voltage being 2 500 V. Then
the machine is connected to the supply. It shall not start with the power switch in the "off" position.

© IEC 2022
Afterwards, inspection shall show that there is no trace of water on insulation which could result
in a reduction of creepage distances between bare conductors of different potential below the
values specified in 28.1. For all instances where creepage distances could be reduced below
the values specified in 28.1, a short circuit is introduced between adjacent conductors. The
machine is then evaluated for
– the risk of fire in accordance with item a) of 18.6.1; and
– the loss of any SCF, unless the machine is rendered into a safe state.
17 Endurance
17.2 Add the following new paragraph:
Care shall be taken to avoid overheating the cutting device by operating continuously and
therefore appropriate interruptions for cooling and lubrication may be introduced.
19 Mechanical hazards
Replace the existing text of 19.1 with the following new text:
19.1 Replacement of the first paragraph:
All power-driven hazardous parts (e.g. gears), other than those moving parts (e.g. cutting
device), barriers and covers which are separately covered by 19.102, 19.103, 19.105 and
19.106, shall be so positioned or enclosed to provide adequate protection. The requirements of
this subclause apply to all operating configurations as described in 8.14.2.
Replace the existing text of the third paragraph of 19.101.1.1 with the following new text:
The handles shall be designed in such a way that each one can be grasped with one hand.
Handles shall be suitably shaped to be grasped securely and have a perimeter P between
63 mm and 170 mm as illustrated in Figure 105 a), 105 b) or 105 c). The perimeter is
determined by a chain measurement with the blade control, if any, fully depressed. The
gripping length of the handle(s) required in Table 101 shall be at least 100 mm.
Replace the existing text of the first paragraph of 19.101.1.2 with the following new text:
On bail or closed handles (U-shaped handles) the gripping length is related to the inner length
of the gripping surface. There shall be a minimum radial clearance of 25 mm around the gripping
length. In addition, for a handle incorporating a blade control, there shall be a minimum radial
clearance of 25 mm around the blade control actuator with the blade control not depressed.
Add, after the first paragraph of 19.101.1.3, the following new paragraph:
In addition, for a handle incorporating a blade control, there shall be a minimum radial
clearance of 25 mm around the blade control actuator with the blade control not depressed.
Replace the existing text of the fourth paragraph of 19.101.2.1 with the following new text:
The handles shall be designed in such a way that each one can be grasped with one hand.
Handles shall be suitably shaped to be grasped securely and have a perimeter P between
63 mm and 170 mm as illustrated in Figure 105 a), 105 b) or 105 c). The perimeter P is
determined by a chain measurement with the blade control, if any, fully depressed. The
gripping length of the front handle and the rear handle shall be at least 100 mm long. In
addition, for a handle incorporating a blade control, there shall be a minimum radial clearance
of 25 mm around the blade control actuator with the blade control not depressed.

– 8 – IEC 62841-4-2:2017/AMD1:2022
© IEC 2022
Replace the existing text of the first paragraph of 19.101.2.2 with the following new text:
On bail or closed handles (U-shaped handles), the gripping length is related to the inner length
of the gripping surface. There shall be a minimum radial clearance of 25 mm around the gripping
length. In addition, for a handle incorporating a blade control, there shall be a minimum radial
clearance of 25 mm around the blade control actuator with the blade control not depressed.
Add, after the first paragraph of 19.101.2.3, the following new paragraph:
In addition, for a handle incorporating a blade control, there shall be a minimum radial
clearance of 25 mm around the blade control actuator with the blade control not depressed.
19.101.3.2 Replace the first paragraph with the following:
Any adjustable handle shall have a defined centre position. The handle shall have a locking
detent at the centre position and at any other intended handle adjustment position of operation
as described in 8.14.2. These other operating positions shall not locate the handle further than
95° from the centre position about their axis of rotation. See Figures 106 and 107. The handle
movement, when locked by the detent and subjected to a torque of (2 ± 0,1) Nm, shall be limited
to 5° rotation. The handle shall have a handle release control as required in 19.101.3.3 that
releases the handle from the detent position.
19.102.2.1 Replace the existing text with the following:
The front handle shall be located so that the distance from the nearest cutting edge of the
cutter blade to the furthest side of any handle, except for Category 1, is not less than 120 mm
as shown in Figure 108 a) and Figure 108 b).
For Category 1, the shortest distance between the front of the handle grip and the nearest blade
tooth shall be at least 120 mm (see Figure 111). The distances shall be measured along the
shortest path from the front of the handle grip to the nearest cutting edge of the cutter blade.
For all categories in Table 101, if there is a front hand barrier, then the x and x distances in
1 2
Figure 108 a) and Figure 108 b) shall be measured along the shortest path from the furthest
side of the handle, via the edge of the front hand barrier, to the nearest cutting edge of the
cutter blade. The front hand barrier shall not have any openings with a minor dimension larger
than 10 mm.
Additionally, for category 3a hedge trimmers, the front hand barrier shall have a minimum
shape described by:
– a height y of 90 mm measured perpendicularly from the cutting plane; and
– a width y of 50 mm on either side of the centreline of the cutting device.
Both the y and y measurements are made with the cutting device in the 0˚ position, if axially
1 2
rotatable. See Figure 109.
Compliance is checked by inspection and by measurement.
19.103.2.4 Hedge trimmer category 4 (see Figure 116)
Add the following new paragraph before the compliance paragraph
Blunt extensions are not required for category 4 hedge trimmers with a blade configuration
where there are only two handles and the front handle is a stick-type handle that is permanently
fixed to the smooth side of a single sided cutting device (see Figure 104 b)).

© IEC 2022
19.103.3.4 Replace the existing text of the first paragraph with the following new text:
An adjustable cutting device shall be provided with a momentary cutting device release
control to disengage the cutting device from a locked position. A handle in accordance with
8.14.2 b) 108) shall be provided for adjusting the position of the cutting device such that
contact with the cutting device is not required. The requirements of 21.30 shall not apply to
the cutting device adjusting handle.
19.103.3.6 Replace the existing text of the third paragraph with the following new text:
The cutting device release control is actuated in accordance with 8.14.2 b) 108) a total of
2 000 times, engaging all locking detent positions over the full range of travel of the adjustable
cutting device, in both directions.
19.104.2 Replace the existing text of the first paragraph with the following new text:
The hedge trimmer shall be mounted and instrumented in such a manner that the results of
the test are not affected.
20 Mechanical strength
Replace the existing text of the fourth paragraph of 20.3.1 with the following new text:
Each drop shall be conducted on a separate sample, unless a single sample can be subjected
to multiple drops without failure. If a sample has been subjected to multiple drops and fails,
then the drop in the orientation that resulted in the failure is repeated using a new sample. If
the new sample passes the test for the drop in that orientation, then the requirements for the
drop in that orientation are considered to be fulfilled. The test is continued in this manner until
all drops in each of the four orientations are completed.
20.101.3.3 Replace the first two dashes with the following:
– temporarily deflect more than an additional 15 % of the length measured from the point of
the power switch closest to the cutter blade and the nearest cutting edge of the cutter
blade while a force of 50 N is applied to a part of the cutter blade nearest to the front
handle, with the additional deflection being measured at the point of each applied force;
– permanently be deformed by more than 5 % of the length measured from the point of the
power switch closest to the cutter blade and the nearest cutting edge of the cutter blade
after removal of the applied force above, with the permanent deformation being measured
at the point of each applied force; and
21 Construction
Add the following new subclause:
21.17.1 Addition:
This subclause of Part 1 is also applicable for an operator presence sensor whose motion is
mechanically obstructed and either
– functions as a lock-off device; or
– is locked off by the lock-off device.
Add the following new subclause:

– 10 – IEC 62841-4-2:2017/AMD1:2022
© IEC 2022
21.17.1.3 Replacement of Table 7:
Table 7 – Switch trigger force
Trigger type Force
N
Single finger trigger
(trigger length < 30 mm)
Multi finger trigger
(trigger length ≥ 30 mm)
Operator presence sensor 100
21.18.102.3 Replace the second paragraph with the following:
Drive to the cutting device shall only be enabled when the lock-off device is operated prior to
the blade control.
Replace the paragraph after the NOTE with the following:
The hedge trimmer shall return to the original locked state within 5 s when the blade control
is released (i.e. at least two separate and dissimilar actions are required before drive to the
cutting device is possible), unless
– an operator presence sensor is provided; and
– the hand is not released from the operator presence sensor.
Replace the last two paragraphs with the following:
Additionally, for lock-off devices that are actuated in a direction generally perpendicular to the
longitudinal vertical plane of the machine, (see Figure 124), and that are located within any
grasping surface of handle(s) or grasping surface(s) identified in accordance with 8.14.2 b) 103),
in order to determine if it is possible to actuate the blade control and the lock-off device with
a single grasping motion or a straight line motion, compliance is checked by the following test:
With the blade control in the "off" position, the lock-off device shall not be actuated by the
cylindrical face of a 25 mm diameter × 75 mm long steel rod when applied with a force not
exceeding 20 N. The axis of the rod is applied perpendicular to the axis of the handle and is
either:
– rotated around the handle, see Figure 126; or
– applied in the direction perpendicular to the handle axis, see Figure 127,
while bridging the handle surface and surface of the lock-off device and any surface adjacent
to the lock-off device. When applying the steel rod, the circular end faces and edges shall not
be used for probing.
During the test, it shall not be possible to actuate the blade control by applying a force as
specified in Table 7.
21.30.101 Replace the last two paragraphs before the compliance paragraph with the
following:
An insulated, stick type, auxiliary handle shall be provided with a flange having a height not
less than 12 mm above the handle and covering at least 2/3 of the periphery to provide a barrier
to minimize the likelihood of the hand from slipping onto surfaces that are not suitably insulated
or isolated.
© IEC 2022
A grasping surface formed by sections of the shaft of an extended-reach hedge trimmer shall
be provided with a flange at each end to minimize the likelihood of the hand from slipping onto
surfaces that are not suitably insulated or isolated. Both flanges shall have a height not less
than 6 mm above the grasping surface and shall cover at least 2/3 of the periphery.
The flange nearest to the rear handle may be omitted if the shaft insulation extends from the
rear handle to the grasping surface.
The flange nearest to the cutting device may be omitted if the shaft insulation combined with
the grasping surface extends to a location at least 1,2 m from the blade control in the rear
handle.
23 Components
Add, at the end of 23.3, the following new paragraph:
This subclause is not applicable for
– machines fitted with two blade controls that require simultaneous actuation; and
– extended-reach hedge trimmers.
28 Creepage distances, clearances and distances through insulation
Replace the existing text of Clause 28 with the following new text:
Replacement:
28.1 Creepage distances and clearances shall not be less than the values in millimetres
shown in Table 12. The values specified in the table do not apply to cross-over points of motor
windings.
The values in Table 12 are equal or larger than the values required by IEC 60664-1, when
– an overvoltage category II;
– a material group III;
– a pollution degree 1 for parts protected against deposition of dirt and for lacquered or
enamelled windings;
– a pollution degree 3 for other parts;
– inhomogeneous electric field;
– transient overvoltages originating in the equipment not exceeding 4 000 V
are applied.
Protection against deposition of dirt may be achieved through the use of
– encapsulation with a minimum thickness of 0,5 mm; or
– protective coatings that prevent the combined deposition of fine particles and moisture on
surfaces between conductors. Requirements for these types of protective coatings are
described in IEC 60664-3:2016; or
– enclosures that prevent the ingress of dust by means of filters or seals, provided that no
dust is generated within the enclosure itself.
NOTE 1 An example of encapsulation is potting.

– 12 – IEC 62841-4-2:2017/AMD1:2022
© IEC 2022
If a resonance voltage occurs between the point where a winding and a capacitor are connected
together, and metal parts which are separated from live parts by basic insulation only, the
creepage distance and clearance shall not be less than the values specified for the value of
the voltage imposed by the resonance, these values being increased by 4 mm in the case of
reinforced insulation.
Compliance is checked by measurement.
For machines provided with an appliance inlet, the measurements are made with an appropriate
connector inserted. For other machines, they are made on the machine as delivered.
For machines provided with belts, the measurements are made with the belts in place, and the
devices intended for varying the belt tension adjusted to the most unfavourable position within
their range of adjustment, and also with the belts removed.
Movable parts are placed in the most unfavourable position; nuts and screws with non-circular
heads are assumed to be tightened in the most unfavourable position.
The clearances between terminals and accessible metal parts are also measured with the
screws or nuts unscrewed as far as possible, but the clearances shall then be not less than
50 % of the value shown in Table 12.

© IEC 2022
Table 12 – Minimum creepage distances and clearances
Dimensions in millimetres
Other machines
Class III tools
Working voltage Working Working
(machines)
≤ 130 V voltage > 130 V and voltage > 280 V and
Distances
≤ 280 V ≤ 480 V
Creepage Clear- Creepage Clear- Creepage Clear- Creepage Clear-
distance ance distance ance distance ance distance ance
Between parts of
a
different potential :
– if lacquered or
enamelled windings or
if protected against
deposition of dirt 1,0 1,0 1,0 1,0 2,0 2,0 2,0 2,0
– if not protected
against deposition of
c b b e
dirt 2,0 1,5 2,0 1,5 3,0 2,5 8,0 3,0
Between live parts and
other metal parts over
basic insulation:
– if the live parts are
lacquered or
d
enamelled windings
or if protected against
deposition of dirt – – 1,0 1,0 2,0 2,0 2,0 2,0
– if not protected
against deposition of
c c e
2,4 4,0 8,0
dirt – – 1,5 3,0 3,0
Between live parts and
other metal parts over
reinforced insulation:
– if the live parts are
lacquered or
enamelled windings or
protected against
e
deposition of dirt – – 5,0 5,0 6,0 6,0 10,0 6,0
– for other live parts
not protected against
e
deposition of dirt – – 5,0 5,0 8,0 8,0 16,0 8,0
Between metal parts
separated by
supplementary
e
insulation – – 2,5 2,5 4,0 4,0 8,0 4,0
a
The clearances specified do not apply to the air gap between the contacts of thermal controls, protective
devices, switches of micro-gap construction, and the like, or to the air gap between the current-carrying
members of such devices where the clearance varies with the movement of the contacts.
b
These creepage distances are slightly lower than suggested by IEC 60664-1. Creepage distances between
parts of different potential (functional insulation) are only associated to fire hazard, not to electric shock hazard.
As products in the scope of IEC 62841 are products supervised during normal use, lower distances are justified.
c
These creepage distances may be reduced to values in accordance with IEC 60664-1, if the insulation parts
are of material group II or lower.
d
Windings are considered to have basic insulation if they are wrapped with tape and then impregnated, or if
they are covered with a layer of self-hardening resin, and if, after the test of 14.1, an electric strength test as
specified in Clause D.2 is withstood, the test voltage being applied between the conductors of the winding and
metal foil in contact with the surface of the insulation.
It is sufficient that the wrapping and impregnation, or the layer of self-hardening resin, cover the windings only
at places where it is not possible to obtain the creepage distance or clearance specified for lacquered or
enamelled windings.
e
These creepage distances are valid for frequencies up to 30 kHz. For higher frequencies, creepage distances
shall be in accordance with IEC 60664-4:2005. Creepage distances and clearances can be reduced in
accordance with IEC 60664-1 if the insulation parts are of material group II or lower and/or for working voltages
≤400 V, however they shall not be lower than the values required in the column "Working voltage > 130 V and
≤ 280 V".
– 14 – IEC 62841-4-2:2017/AMD1:2022
© IEC 2022
Distances through slots or openings in external parts of insulating material are measured to
metal foil in contact with the accessible surface; the foil is pushed into corners and the like by
means of the test probe B of IEC 61032:1997, but it is not pressed into openings.
If necessary, a force is applied to any point on internal wiring and bare conductors, other than
those of heating elements, to any point on uninsulated metal capillary tubes of thermostats
and similar devices, and to the outside of metal enclosures, in an endeavour to reduce the
creepage distances and clearances while taking the measurements.
The force is applied by means of the test probe B of IEC 61032:1997, and has a value of:
– 2 N for internal wiring and bare conductors and for uninsulated capillary tubes of
thermostats and similar devices;
– 30 N for enclosures.
The way in which creepage distances and clearances are measured is indicated in Annex A.
For machines having parts with double insulation where there is no metal between basic
insulation and supplementary insulation, the measurements are made as though a metal foil
were present between the two insulations.
Means provided for fixing the machine to a support are considered to be accessible.
Creepage distances and clearances within optocouplers are not measured if the individual
insulations are adequately sealed, and if air is excluded between individual layers of the
material.
For parts of different potential, including conductive patterns on printed circuit boards, except
for external mains connection, creepage distances and clearances smaller than the minimum
values specified
– in Table 12; or
– for conductive patterns on printed circuit boards as specified below
are allowed, provided
– the requirements of Clause 18 are met if these creepage distances and clearances are
short-circuited in turn; or
– for electronic circuits, they comply with 18.6 and 18.8.
For conductive patterns on printed circuit boards, except at their edges, the minimum creepage
distances and clearances in Table 12 between parts of different potential may be reduced, as
long as the peak value of the voltage stress does not exceed:
– 150 V per mm with a minimum value of 0,2 mm, if protected against the deposition of dirt;
– 100 V per mm with a minimum value of 0,5 mm, if not protected against the deposition of
dirt.
When the limits mentioned above lead to higher values than those of Table 12, the values of
Table 12 apply.
NOTE 2 The above values are equal or larger than the values required by IEC 60664-3:2016.
28.2 Depending on the working voltage, the distance through insulation shall be as follows:
– For working voltages up to and including 130 V, the distance through insulation between
metal parts shall not be less than 1,0 mm, if they are separated by supplementary
insulation, and not be less than 1,5 mm, if they are separated by reinforced insulation.

© IEC 2022
– For working voltages over 130 V, the distance through insulation between metal parts shall
not be less than 1,0 mm, if they are separated by supplementary insulation, and not be
less than 2,0 mm, if they are separated by reinforced insulation.
– For all working voltages, the distance through reinforced insulation used between
enamelled or lacquered windings and accessible metal shall not be less than 1,0 mm.
The required distance through insulation may be achieved through several thicknesses of solid
insulation layers that may have intervening air between the layers such that the sum of the
thicknesses of the solid insulation equals the required thickness.
This requirement does not apply, if either a) or b) is fulfilled.
a) The insulation is applied in thin sheet form, other than mica or similar scaly material, and
consists:
– for supplementary insulation, of at least two layers, provided that any one of the layers
withstands the electric strength test prescribed for supplementary insulation;
– for reinforced insulation, of at least three layers, provided that, when any two of the
layers are placed in contact, they withstand the electric strength test prescribed for
reinforced insulation.
The test voltage is applied between the outer surfaces of the layer, or of the two layers, as
applicable.
b) The supplementary insulation or the reinforced insulation is inaccessible and meets the
following condition:
The insulation, after having been conditioned for seven days (168 h) in an oven maintained
at a temperature equal to 50 K greater than the maximum temper
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