NEN 3140: the safety standard for low voltage
NEN 3140 is the Dutch standard for working safely on low-voltage installations up to 1000 V AC. In this article we explain exactly what the standard covers, who it applies to, and which authorisations exist.
Who does NEN 3140 apply to?
NEN 3140 applies to everyone who works on or near low-voltage installations, from electricians to managers. Employers are required to deploy staff whose competence can be demonstrated, and to inspect installations or have them inspected.
The authorisation levels
NEN 3140 has several authorisation levels, based on knowledge, experience and responsibility.
- Ordinary person: no authorisation, may not work on installations
- VOP: instructed person (voldoende onderricht persoon), works under supervision
- VP: skilled person (vakbekwaam persoon), carries out work themselves
- IVWV: person in control of the electrical installation or work activity (installatieverantwoordelijke or werkverantwoordelijke), supervises
Certificate, written designation (aanwijzing) and recertification
You obtain the certificate by passing an exam at an exam body; it is usually valid for 3 years, after which you recertify. In addition, the employer designates employees in writing and makes sure their competence stays up to date, for example with periodic refresher training. With SwitchSkills you prepare for the exam and for recertification. The official exam is in Dutch, so it helps to know the Dutch terms.
Difference from NEN 3840
NEN 3140 covers low voltage (up to 1000 V AC / 1500 V DC). NEN 3840 covers high voltage (above those limits). Work on high-voltage end groups (e.g. transformers) falls under both standards. Hence VP*** and above.