Guide to Forms of Separation

Low Voltage Switchgear and Controlgear

Assemblies to BS EN 61439-2

Guide to Forms of Separation – Low Voltage Switchgear and Controlgear Assemblies to BS EN 61439-2

July 2011
 Guide to Forms of Separation
Low Voltage Switchgear and Controlgear
Assemblies to BS EN 61439-2

Companies involved in the preparation of this Guide

Electrium Sales Ltd Hager Engineering Ltd Schneider Electric Ltd
Commercial Centre Hortonwood 50 Stafford Park 5
Lakeside Plaza Telford Telford
Walkmill Lane Shropshire Shropshire
Bridgtown, Cannock TF1 7FT United Kingdom
Staffordshire t: +44 (0) 1952 677899 TF3 3BL
United Kingdom f: +44 (0) 1952 675581 t: +44 (0) 1952 290029
WS11 0XE e: [email protected] f: +44 (0) 1952 292238
t: +44 (0) 1543 455000 w: www.hager.co.uk w: www.schneider.co.uk
f: +44 (0) 1543 455001
e: [email protected] Eaton Electric Ltd Siemens Industry Automation
w: www.electrium.co.uk Reddings Lane & Drives Technology
Tyseley Sir William Siemens House
GR Electrical Services Ltd Birmingham Princess Road
Merlin House United Kingdom Manchester M20 2UR
Aviation Road B11 3EZ t: +44 (0) 161 446 6400
Sherburn Enterprise Park t: +44 (0) 121 685 2100 f: +44 (0) 161 446 9319
Sherburn-in-Elmet f: +44 (0) 121 706 9996 e: [email protected]
Leeds w: http://www.eatonelectrical.com/uk/ w: www.automation.siemens.co.uk
United Kingdom
LS25 6NB Legrand Electric Ltd
t: +44 (0) 1977 681681 Great King Street North
f: +44 (0) 1977 685605 Birmingham
e: [email protected] United Kingdom
w: www.gr-electrical.co.uk B19 2LF
t: +44 (0) 121 515 0515
f: +44 (0) 121 515 0516
e: [email protected]
w: www.legrand.co.uk
Contents

Preface 4
Introduction 5
Useful definitions 5
What are forms of separation 7
Fundamental objectives of separation 7
Legal obligations 8
Basics of separation 9
Main considerations 9
Detailed selection 10
Decision tree 13
Other considerations 14
Illustrations 16
Frequently asked questions 30

Acknowledgements
BEAMA would like to thank IEC and BSI for allowing references to their
standards; Health and Safety Executive (HSE) for reference to their documents.
Guide to Selecting
Forms of Separation
Preface
Since 1992 The BEAMA Installation Guide to Forms of Separation has become the accepted Industry standard,
providing a clearer understanding of the constructional requirement and various ways of meeting the
necessary standard internal separation.

The history behind this Guide started with British Standard BS 5486 Part 1:1990 later amended in line with
European standards to BS EN 60439-1 in 1994. A BEAMA Installation initiative, led to a National Annex being
added to the standard in March 1995. The Annex is still there today in the BS EN 61439-2 Standard.

Forms of internal separation in BS EN 61439-2 are subject to agreement between the manufacturer and
the user. BEAMA recommends this Guide as an appropriate basis for such an agreement.

This sixth edition of the Guide has been produced to be in line with BS EN 61439-2 and remains essential
reading for both specifier’s and users. The Guide is intended to assist in selecting the most appropriate
form of separation for a given application.

4 Guide to Forms of Separation – Low Voltage Switchgear and Controlgear Assemblies to BS EN 61439-2
Introduction

For specifiers, one of the most significant choices they face when specifying a low-voltage
assembly, is the form of separation. Selection of an inappropriate form of separation will at
the very least cause disappointment. As a consequence the assembly may either be much
more expensive than necessary or it may be unsuitable for the application.

Useful Definitions
The Standard includes definitions relating to Assemblies.Those particularly relevant to the
forms of separation of Assemblies include the following.

Assembly
“Power switchgear and controlgear assembly (PSC-ASSEMBLY)”
“Low-voltage switchgear and controlgear ASSEMBLY used to distribute and control
energy for all types of loads, intended for industrial, commercial and similar
applications where operation by ordinary persons is not intended.” This includes floor
standing or wall mounting distribution switchboards, panel boards, and motor control
centres using electromechanical and/or electronic components. It does however specifically
exclude individual devices and self-contained components which control a single circuit i.e.
wall mounted starters and fuse switches.

Functional Unit
“Part of an ASSEMBLY comprising all the electrical and mechanical elements
including switching devices that contribute to the fulfilment of the same function”.
“NOTE Conductors which are connected to a functional unit but which are external
to its compartment or enclosed protected space (e.g. auxiliary cables connected to
a common compartment) are not considered to form part of the functional unit”
Comprises all parts necessary to form a complete incoming or outgoing circuit. It includes
the load current carrying device(s) and associated equipment, cable terminals, and control
devices within the assembly, that are necessary to form the complete circuit. It excludes the
connections from the unit to the busbars (busbar connections) and any insulation or
shrouding with which they may be provided. It may consist of more than one compartment
or enclosed protected space.

Section
“Constructional unit of an ASSEMBLY between two successive vertical delineations”.
Usually considered to be a single full height column containing one or more functional units.
One or more columns are required to complete an assembly.

Sub-Section
“Constructional unit of an ASSEMBLY between two successive horizontal or vertical
delineations within a section”. The area or space within a column identified and bounded
by two adjacent and horizontal constructional members e.g. cross members or shelves.

Compartment
“Section or sub-section enclosed except for openings necessary for interconnection,
control or ventilation”

Guide to Forms of Separation – Low Voltage Switchgear and Controlgear Assemblies to BS EN 61439-2 5
[Return to FAQs] æ Enclosure
“Housing affording the type and degree of protection suitable for the intended
application”. Provides protection for equipment against certain external influences from
any accessible direction and against direct contact to a degree of protection of at least IP2X.

Partition
“Part of the enclosure of a compartment separating it from other compartments”.
A component used to form the top, bottom, sides, front or back of a compartment or
enclosure and which can be manufactured from metal or an appropriate synthetic material.
A device’s integral housing may also satisfy this requirement.

Barrier
“Part providing protection against direct contact from any usual direction of access”.
Used to achieve a form of separation, it must meet the requirement of at least IP2X. It can
also take the form of insulating material in direct contact with the live part, e.g. heat shrink
sleeving on a busbar. Alternatively it can be rigid insulation, e.g. terminal shields or an
earthed metal screen appropriately positioned relative to the live part(s).

Duty Holder
The term used within the Electricity At Work Regulations to refer to the person appointed
to be responsible for the electrical equipment, systems and conductors and any work or
activities being carried out on or near the electrical equipment.The Duty Holder must be
competent and may be the employer, an employee, or a self-employed person.

6 Guide to Forms of Separation – Low Voltage Switchgear and Controlgear Assemblies to BS EN 61439-2
What are Forms of Separation?

BS EN 61439-2 stipulates:-

Typical arrangements of internal separation by barriers or partitions are described in

Table 104 and are classified as forms (for examples, see Annex AA).

The form of separation and higher degrees of protection shall be the subject of an
agreement between assembly manufacturer and user.

PSC-ASSEMBLIES can be divided to attain one or more of the following conditions between
functional units, separate compartments or enclosed protected spaces:

• Protection against contact with hazardous parts.The degree of protection shall be

at least IPXXB,
• Protection against the passage of solid foreign bodies.The degree of protection
shall be at least IP2X.

NOTE The degree of protection IP2X covers the degree of protection IPXXB.

These are much less precise requirements than normally expected in a standard.The forms
of separation given are only typical and the means by which separation is achieved is subject
to agreement between the user and the manufacturer. More fundamentally, no indication is
given as to the objectives of separating an assembly. The benefits a particular form of
separation may bring are not defined, conversely, nor are the disadvantages if an
inappropriate selection is made.

Fundamental Objectives of Separation

The principal reason for separating an assembly is to facilitate access to a part of the
assembly whilst other parts may remain energised and in service. Whilst, in general,
separation does not improve the electrical performance of the assembly it does provide:

• Protection against contact with live parts belonging to the adjacent functional
units,
• Protection against the passage of solid foreign bodies from one unit of an assembly
to an adjacent unit.

Verification of separation is by application of the appropriate IP test to BS EN 60529

(IPXXB and/or IP2X).

Guide to Forms of Separation – Low Voltage Switchgear and Controlgear Assemblies to BS EN 61439-2 7
[Return to FAQs] æ Legal Obligations
As most National Standards, including the BS EN 61439 series, are derived from
International Standards, they reflect good practice but they do not fully encompass the
requirements of local legislation. Indeed, the standards may not be legally binding.

In the United Kingdom legal obligations take precedence over standards. For low-voltage
assemblies the Low Voltage Directive (LVD) and the Electricity at Work Act are relevant
and in particular, Regulation 14 of the latter must be respected.

The Law

Regulation 14

“No person shall be engaged in any work activity on or near

any live conductor (other than one suitably covered with
insulating material so as to prevent danger) that danger may
arise unless:-

(a) it is unreasonable in all the circumstances for it to be

dead; and
(b) it is reasonable in all the circumstances for him to be at
work on or near it while it is live; and
(c) suitable precautions (including where necessary the
provision of suitable protective equipment) are taken to
prevent injury”

Clearly this regulation is pertinent and onerous when contemplating working within a
partially energised assembly. There is no allowance for tolerable risk. If an assembly can
reasonably be isolated prior to any covers being removed, it must be isolated.

Where it is impractical to totally isolate an assembly prior to carrying out work within an
assembly, the degree of separation, and the way in which the separation is achieved within
the assembly should be considered in a risk assessment to be undertaken by the Duty
Holder (see definitions).This risk assessment will consider all relevant factors including:

(i) Work to be carried out,

(ii) Mechanical protection afforded by any insulation and separation,
(iii) Possibility of initiating a flashover,
(iv) Likelihood of an electric shock.

8 Guide to Forms of Separation – Low Voltage Switchgear and Controlgear Assemblies to BS EN 61439-2
Basics of Separation [Return to FAQs] æ
Specifying the most appropriate form of separation for an assembly is not an easy matter.
In specifying a form of separation the following should be considered:

• The consequences of isolating the assembly or part of,

• Nature of task to be performed,
• Competence of person undertaking work whilst the remainder of the assembly is
energised.

Users and specifiers of assemblies are encouraged to consider in detail the application and
then to follow the process outlined in the main considerations section, in order to
determine the most appropriate form of separation required.

Main considerations
BS EN 61439-2 identifies four main categories of separation; Forms 1, 2, 3 and 4. As a first
step users should consider what operations they need to carry out without fully isolating
the assembly.Then using a process generally as outlined in the chart below, identify the main
category of separation they require for their application.

Application Needs

Isolation available for all Adjust setting and carry Connect and disconnect
internal operations (except out limited maintenance cables. Adjust setting and
changing fuse links) in functional units, as carry out limited maintenance
applicable whilst adjacent in functional units, as
circuits are live. applicable whilst adjacent
circuits are live.

FORM 1 OR 2

FORM 3

FORM 4

Guide to Forms of Separation – Low Voltage Switchgear and Controlgear Assemblies to BS EN 61439-2 9
 Having established the fundamental form for separation needed for an application, specific
details must be considered. The IEC and EN versions of 61439-2 divide Forms 2, 3 and 4
into two sub categories. However, within the requirements defined in the standards there
are three fundamental ways of providing separation:
• Insulation of live parts,
• Partitions or barriers (metallic or non-metallic),
• Integral housing of a device.
Each has different attributes; clearly much depends on the ‘agreement between user and
manufacturer’.

In order to aid the agreement between user and manufacturer, BS EN 61439-2 includes a
National Annex which further details the sub categories by type of construction such as
describing the location of terminals for external conductors and in some instances, the
location of cable glands relative to the associated cable terminals.

In making the appropriate choice the user needs to consider:

• The tasks to be carried out with the assembly partially energised – adjusting relay
setting, terminating large power cables, replacing components, etc.
• What tools may be used. Is there a risk of tools slipping and damaging insulation.
• Possibility of mechanical impact causing damage to the integrity of the separation.
• Is there a danger of small components falling from one compartment to another
causing a hazard.
• Can temporary barriers be effectively used to supplement the protection provided
by separation whilst work is being carried out.
• The additional safety that can be provided by the use of Personal Protective
Equipment.
• The anticipated level of skill of those carrying out any work within the assembly.

Detailed selection
Using the considerations listed above and any other relevant application specific needs the
user should then refine their separation needs and select the appropriate sub category of
the basic form selected.

Forms 1 Options in the National Annex of BS EN 61439-2

and 2
Main criteria Sub-criteria Form Type of construction

No separation Form 1

Separation of busbars Terminals for external Form 2a

from the functional conductors not
units. separated from
busbars.
Terminals for external Form 2b Type 1 Busbar separation is
conductors separated achieved by insulated
from busbars. covering, e.g. sleeving,
wrapping or coatings.

Type 2 Busbar separation is by

metallic or non-metallic
rigid barriers or partitions.

10 Guide to Forms of Separation – Low Voltage Switchgear and Controlgear Assemblies to BS EN 61439-2
With Form 1 all components including busbars and cable termination can, and usually are,
in the same compartment. In order to safely work within the assembly it must be isolated
upstream.
Form 2 has the busbars separated from the functional units and, depending on whether 2a
or 2b is selected the cable terminals may be separated from the busbars. However, as
functional units are not separated from each other, Form 2 has little practical advantage
over Form 1. In reality a Form 2 assembly without any additional barriers or screens must
be isolated prior to the interior of the assembly being accessed.

Options in the National Annex of BS EN 61439-2

Form 3
Main criteria Sub-criteria Form Type of construction

Separation of busbars Terminals for external Form 3a

from the functional conductors not
units and separation of separated from
all functional units from busbars.
one another. Separation
of the terminals for
external conductors Type 1
Terminals for external Form 3b Busbar separation is
from the functional
conductors separated achieved by insulated
units, but not from
from busbars. covering, e.g. sleeving,
each other.
wrapping or coatings.

Type 2 Busbar separation is by

metallic or non-metallic
rigid barriers or partitions.

Form 3 may permit work to be carried out within the functional unit, for example; routine
maintenance, fault finding, replacement of fuse links. In selecting the constructional type the specifier
must, bearing in mind there is no requirement for the terminals of one circuit to be separated from
adjacent circuits, determine if there is benefit to be gained from separating the busbars from cable
terminals. If there is advantage in having the busbars separated, the means of separation, sleeving or
similar or rigid barriers must be determined based on the likely mechanical needs of the separation.

Guide to Forms of Separation – Low Voltage Switchgear and Controlgear Assemblies to BS EN 61439-2 11
Form 4 Options in the National Annex of BS EN 61439-2

Main criteria Sub-criteria Form Type of construction

Separation of busbars Terminals for external Form 4a Type 1 Busbar separation is achieved
from the functional conductors in the same by insulated covering, e.g.
units and separation of compartment as the sleeving, wrapping or coatings.
all functional units from associated functional Cables may be glanded
one another, including unit. elsewhere.
the terminals for
external conductors Type 2 Busbar separation is by
which are an integral metallic or non-metallic
part of the functional rigid barriers or partitions.
unit. Cables may be glanded
elsewhere.

Type 3 Busbar separation is by

metallic or non-metallic
rigid barriers or partitions.
The termination for each
functional unit has its own
integral glanding facility.

Terminals for external Form 4b Type 4 Busbar separation is

conductors not in the achieved by insulated
same compartment as covering, e.g. sleeving,
the associated wrapping or coatings. Cables
functional unit, but in may be glanded elsewhere.
individual, separate,
enclosed protected Type 5 Busbar separation is by
spaces or metallic or non-metallic
compartments. rigid barriers or partitions.
Terminals may be separated
by insulated coverings and
glanded in common cabling
chamber(s).

Type 6 All separation requirements

are by metallic or non-
metallic rigid barriers or
partitions. Cables are
glanded in common cabling
chamber(s).

Type 7 All separation

requirements are by
metallic or non-metallic
rigid barriers or partitions.
The termination for each
functional unit has its own
integral glanding facility.

Form 4 provides many variants which offer different opportunities in use. Selecting the most
appropriate needs a very detailed understanding of the application and a logical thought process to
arrive at the most suitable solution.The following flow chart may assist in this exercise.

12 Guide to Forms of Separation – Low Voltage Switchgear and Controlgear Assemblies to BS EN 61439-2
 [Return to FAQs] æ
Form 4

Is there a need
No Yes
for clear demarcation
between the functional
unit and the associated
cable terminals

Light physical work only to be

Yes undertaken in the functional unit Yes
and cabling areas, e.g. adjustment
of settings, fault finding,
Type 1
? replacement of fuse links. The
termination of power cables
? Type 4
without isolation of the assembly
or the use of supplementary
protection is not required.

No
Work may need to be carried Yes
out within the functional unit,
e.g. routine maintenance, fault
No finding, replacement of fuse links.
The termination of power cables ? Type 5
without isolation of the assembly
or the use of supplementary
protection is not required.

No
Work may need to be carried
out within the functional unit,
Yes e.g. routine maintenance, fault Yes
finding, replacement of fuse links.
Type 2 ? Cables may need to be terminated
adjacent to live cable cores –
insulation on the cable core is
? Type 6
considered to provide adequate
mechanical protection.

No No
Work may need to be carried
out within the functional unit,
e.g. routine maintenance, fault
Yes finding, replacement of fuse links. Yes
Heavy cables may need to be
terminated adjacent to live cables
Type 3 ? – added mechanical protection
of cable armour up to cable ? Type 7
box/area considered necessary.
Supplementary protection is
not required.

Guide to Forms of Separation – Low Voltage Switchgear and Controlgear Assemblies to BS EN 61439-2 13
[Return to FAQs] æ Other considerations
In applications where an extremely high continuity of supply is required there may be an
advantage in being able to replace or add a functional unit while the busbars and adjacent
circuits remain energised and in service. For these applications an assembly with
withdrawable or removable functional units should be specified. The level of protection
provided to operators while the functional unit is being removed and when it is removed
needs to be agreed with the manufacturer.
BS EN 61439-2 is not definitive in what separation will offer or how it will be achieved.
Much is left to agreement between the user and manufacturer.This is intentional as it allows
manufacturers to use their initiative, whilst meeting the basic requirements set out in the
standard. It also enables the most appropriate assembly to be provided for the particular
application, but in so doing, it does make selecting the right assembly all the more difficult.
In addition to the process outlined above the following should be taken into account before
reaching a final decision on the form of separation to be specified for a particular
application.

1. Method of construction in Form 3 and 4 assemblies

As switching devices such as MCCBs, integrated motor starters and variable speed drives
evolve; there is an increasing tendency for them to be enclosed in their own integral housing
(group mounted). This provides an opportunity to use the device’s integral housing as the
means of separation or, alternatively enclose the complete device within a compartment
within the assembly (compartmentalised).
The use of the device’s integral housing as a means of separation is recognised within
BS EN 61439-2. Whichever approach is used, the chosen devices and the assembly as a
whole must meet the safety and performance criteria set out in the standard. Generally, use
of the integral housing as a means of separation will lead to the most compact assembly, but
its suitability will essentially be determined by the way in which the assembly is to be used
(operated, maintained, etc.) throughout its anticipated life.

2. Use of multiple forms of separation

Within an assembly it can be acceptable and even advantageous to use more than one form
of separation. For example, within a Form 4 assembly it may be acceptable to have a MCB
distribution board that may be regarded as one functional unit. Alternatively the Form 4
assembly may include several circuits of different Form 4 types with different cable
termination arrangements. Similarly, where there is difficulty isolating an assembly upstream,
a Form 1 or 2 assembly may be acceptable providing its incoming cable terminals are
separated using a Form 4 construction.

3. Holes in partitions or barriers

The basic requirement for separation is that barriers or partitions should pass an IP2X test.
If, based on the anticipated use of the assembly, this will lead to an unacceptable risk of parts
or tools accidentally passing into energised functional units, the user should discuss his
requirements with the manufacturer.

4. Size
As a general rule the higher the degree of separation then the larger the assembly. Barriers
and partitions take up space and may restrict air flow necessitating the use of larger
components to achieve the required rating of a circuit within the assembly.Almost certainly
a Form 4 Type 3 or 7 specification will increase the size of the assembly compared with a
lower form of separation.

14 Guide to Forms of Separation – Low Voltage Switchgear and Controlgear Assemblies to BS EN 61439-2
5. Changing fuse links [Return to FAQs] æ
Whilst not specifically covered within BS EN 61439-2, assemblies generally supplied by
BEAMA member companies will be arranged such that fuse links within functional units can
be replaced by suitably instructed and competent personnel without the need to isolate the
whole assembly.

6. Neutral
The risks associated with neutral conductors in a present day distribution system have
prompted much debate and at times have led to a more cautious approach than is
necessary.
BS 7671 (UK wiring regulations) prescribes that except for a main switch intended for
operation by ordinary persons, in a TN-S or TN-C-S system the neutral conductor need not
be isolated or switched where it can be regarded as being reliably connected to earth by a
suitably low impedance.
The neutral conductor of a circuit may remain connected when the line conductor(s) of
that circuit are isolated. This could be a hazard because a voltage difference between a
neutral and earth can be present. Prior to undertaking work on the circuit it must be
ascertained if the capacity to deliver a harmful electric shock exists.
In a TN-S or TN-C-S system, a harmful touch voltage due to load current in the neutral is
unlikely, where the circuit conductors have been sized to comply with the voltage drop
constraints in Table 12A of BS 7671. Nevertheless, a competent person must complete a
risk assessment and appropriate test(s) to confirm that, the exposed neutral connection
within the assembly is not a hazardous live part. In particular,The (UK) Electricity at Work
Regulations 1989 including any amendments must be complied with.

7. Safe working with adjacent equipment energised

Switchboard manufacturers cannot give all embracing assurances for safe working, according
to the form of separation with parts of the assembly energised. Specifying a particular form
of separation will not guarantee this for any given form number. Effectively this means that
where live working is being contemplated a risk assessment and judgement must be made
for every situation by the Duty Holder.

8. Cost
Higher forms of separation, generally lead to larger and structurally more complex
assemblies and therefore higher costs. For the most cost effective solution the lowest level
of separation that meets the needs of the application should be specified.

Guide to Forms of Separation – Low Voltage Switchgear and Controlgear Assemblies to BS EN 61439-2 15
Introduction to Illustrations

The illustrations which follow are interpretations for the various types of construction used
to achieve satisfactory forms of separation in accordance with BS EN 61439-2.

Specifiers and users should be aware that the different methods that manufacturers use to
achieve various forms of separation can often result in two products which both bear the
same overall form type but can be physically and financially different.

The illustrations are in no way intended to be considered as prescriptive.

Although many assemblies are custom built and by nature “unique” the illustrations
represent a general indication of typical product offerings of BEAMA member companies.

BS EN 61439-2 also includes panel boards within its scope. This has been reflected in
production of these illustrations.

All of the following illustrations exclude the external enclosure.

16 Guide to Forms of Separation – Low Voltage Switchgear and Controlgear Assemblies to BS EN 61439-2
Overview of the Forms of Separation

Key:

Notes:
Forms of Separation can be achieved by using; All diagrams from figures AA 1, 2, & 3 from Annex AA
(i) Partitions/barriers of metallic or non-metallic material Text from UK National Annex
Both from BS EN 61439-2
(ii) The integral housing of the device

Form 1 Form 2 Form 3 Form 4

Form 1 Form 2a Form 3a Form 4a Type 1

Form 2b Type 1 Form 3b Type 1 Form 4a Type 2 & Type 3

Form 2b Type 2 Form 3b Type 2 Form 4b Type 4

Form 4b Type 5, 6 & 7

Form 1: Form 2: Form 3: Form 4:

No internal separation is provided. Functional unit separate from the As Form 2 plus: As Form 3 plus:
busbars
Functional units separate from Terminals for external conductors
The ‘a’ designation denotes
other functional units separate each other
terminals are not separate from
the busbar The ‘a’ designation denotes The ‘a’ designation denotes terminals
terminals are not separate from within the functional unit
The ‘b’ designation denotes
the busbar
terminals are separate from the The ‘b’ designation denotes terminals
busbar The ‘b’ designation denotes for external conductors are in a
terminals for external conductors separate compartment to the
Type 1 utilises insulated coverings
are in a separate compartment functional unit
for busbar separation
to the functional unit
Type 2 utilises insulated partitions Types 1 & 4 utilises insulated
Type 1 utilises insulated coverings coverings for busbar separation
and barriers for busbar separation.
for busbar separation
Types 2, 3, 5, 6 & 7 utilise
Type 2 utilises insulated partitions partitions and barriers for busbar
and barriers for busbar separation. separation
Types 3 & 7 feature integral glanding
Type 5 utilises insulated coverings for
terminals for external conductors.

Guide to Forms of Separation – Low Voltage Switchgear and Controlgear Assemblies to BS EN 61439-2 17
 Form 1
Form 1 assemblies are closed so
as to provide protection against
contact with internal live parts, or
compartments, but where no internal
separation is provided for functional
units or terminals.

Form 1 requires that;

(i) Busbars are not separated
from functional units
(ii) Busbars are not separated from
any incoming or outgoing termination
(iii) Functional units are not
separated from other functional units
(iv) Functional units are not
separated from any incoming or
outgoing termination.

Form 2a
All Form 2 assemblies are enclosed
so as to provide protection against
contact with internal live parts, or
compartments and where there is
internal separation of the
busbar from the functional units.

Form 2a requires that;

(i) Busbars are separated from
functional units
(ii) Busbars are not separated from
any incoming or outgoing termination
(iii) Functional units are not
separated from other functional units
(iv) Functional units are separated
from any incoming or outgoing
termination
(v) Terminals are not separate
from each other.

Notes:
Forms of separation can be
achieved by using;
(i) Partitions/barriers of metallic or
non-metallic material
(ii) The integral housing of the device
(iii) Terminal shrouds, shields and
dividers can be used to contribute
towards the required degree of
separation (IPXXB)
(iv) For neutral termination see Other
Considerations item 6.

The ‘a’ designation denotes terminals The above illustration uses the “Integral Housing of the Device”
for external conductors are not as a means of separation.
separate from the busbars.

18 Guide to Forms of Separation – Low Voltage Switchgear and Controlgear Assemblies to BS EN 61439-2
 Form 2b Type 1
All Form 2 assemblies are enclosed
so as to provide protection against
contact with internal live parts, or
compartments and where there
is internal separation of the
busbar from the functional units.

Form 2b Type 1 requires that;

(i) Busbars are separated from
functional units

Notes:
Forms of separation can be
achieved by using;
(i) Partitions/barriers of metallic or
non-metallic material
(ii) The integral housing of the device
(iii) Terminal shrouds, shields and
dividers can be used to
contribute towards the required
degree of separation (IPXXB)
(iv) For neutral terminations see
Other Considerations item 6.

The ‘b’ designation denotes terminals

are separate from the busbars.
The ‘Type 1’ designation denotes
busbar separation is achieved by
insulated coverings – sleeving,
wrapping or coating.

The above illustration uses the “Integral Housing of the Device”

as a means of separation.
Cable terminations are integral to the device.

Form 2b Type 2
All Form 2 assemblies are enclosed
to provide protection against contact
with internal live parts, or
compartments and where there is
internal separation of the
busbar from the functional units.

Form 2b Type 2 requires that;

(i) Busbars are separated from
functional units.

Notes:
Forms of separation can be
achieved by using;
(i) Partitions/barriers of metallic or
non-metallic material
(ii) The integral housing of the device
(iii) Terminal shrouds, shields and
dividers can be used to
contribute towards the required
degree of separation (IPXXB)
(iv) For neutral terminations see
Other Considerations item 6.

The ‘b’ designation denotes terminals

are separate from the busbars.
The ‘Type 2’ designation denotes
busbar separation by partitions and
barriers.

Guide to Forms of Separation – Low Voltage Switchgear and Controlgear Assemblies to BS EN 61439-2 19
 Form 3a
All Form 3 assemblies are enclosed
so as to provide protection against
contact with internal live parts, or
compartments and where there is
internal separation of the
busbar from the functional units and
separation of the functional units
from each other. Terminals are
separated from functional units but
not from each other.

Form 3a requires that;

(i) Busbars are separated from
functional units
(ii) Busbars are not separated from
any incoming or outgoing termination
(iii) Functional units are separated
from other functional units
(iv) Functional units are separated
from any incoming or outgoing
termination
(v) Terminals are not separate
from each other.

Notes:
Forms of separation can be
achieved by using;
(i) Partitions/barriers of metallic or
non-metallic material
(ii) The integral housing of the device
(iii) Terminal shrouds, shields and
dividers can be used to contribute
towards the required degree of
separation (IPXXB) The illustration above is Form 3a where the Integral Housing of
the device is the means of separation and the arrangement is
(iv) For neutral termination see Other
regarded as ‘Group Mounted’.
Considerations item 6.

The ‘a’ designation denotes terminals

for external conductors are not
separate from the busbars.

20 Guide to Forms of Separation – Low Voltage Switchgear and Controlgear Assemblies to BS EN 61439-2
 Form 3b Type 1
All Form 3 assemblies are enclosed
so as to provide protection against
contact with internal live parts, or
compartments and where there is
internal separation of the busbar
from the functional units and
Compartmentalised separation of the functional units
from each other.Terminals are
separated from functional units but
not from each other.

Form 3b Type 1 also

requires that;
(i) Busbars are separated from
functional units
(ii) Functional units are separated
from other functional units
(iii) Terminals for external
conductors are separated from
the respective functional unit
and the busbars.Terminals are
not separated from other
terminals for external
conductors.

Notes:
Forms of separation can be
achieved by using;
(i) Partitions/barriers of metallic or
non-metallic material
(ii) The integral housing of the
The above illustration uses “Partitions and Barriers” as a means device
of separation and is referred to as Compartmentalised. Note: Insulation around the
(iii) Terminal shrouds, shields and
busbar connection joints has
dividers can be used to
been removed, in both images
contribute towards the required
to assist clarity.
degree of separation (IPXXB)
(iv) For neutral termination see
Other Considerations item 6.
Group Mounted
The ‘b’ designation denotes
terminals for external conductors
are in a separate compartment to
the functional unit.

The ‘Type 1’ designation denotes

busbar separation is achieved by
insulated coverings – sleeving,
wrapping or coating.

The above illustration uses the “Integral Housing of the Device” as a means of separation and
is referred to as Group Mounted.

Where a device’s integral housing is the means of separation, the construction of the device
shall be such that it has a barrier which prevents access from the terminals for external
conductors, to the internal parts of the device.

Guide to Forms of Separation – Low Voltage Switchgear and Controlgear Assemblies to BS EN 61439-2 21
 Form 3b Type 2
All Form 3 assemblies are enclosed
so as to provide protection against
contact with internal live parts, or
compartments and where there is
internal separation of the
busbar from the functional units
and separation of the functional
units from each other.Terminals are
separated from functional units but
not from each other.
Compartmentalised
Form 3b Type 2 also
requires that;
(i) Busbars are separated from
functional units
(ii) Functional units are separated
from other functional units
(iii) Terminals for external
conductors are separated from the
respective functional unit and the
busbars. Terminals are not
separated from other terminals
for external conductors.

Notes:
Forms of separation can be
achieved by using;
(i) Partitions/barriers of metallic
or non-metallic material
(ii) The integral housing
of the device
(iii) Terminal shrouds, shields and
The above illustration uses “Partitions and Barriers” as a means
dividers can be used to contribute
of separation and is referred to as Compartmentalised.
towards the required degree of
separation (IPXXB)
(iv) For neutral termination see
Other Considerations item 6.

The ‘b’ designation denotes Group Mounted

terminals for external conductors
are in a separate compartment
to the functional unit.

The ‘Type 2’ designation denotes

busbar separation by partitions
and barriers.

The above illustration uses the “Integral Housing of the Device” as a means of separation and
is referred to as Group Mounted.

Where a device’s integral housing is the means of separation, the construction of the device
shall be such that it has a barrier which prevents access from the terminals for external
conductors, to the internal parts of the device.

22 Guide to Forms of Separation – Low Voltage Switchgear and Controlgear Assemblies to BS EN 61439-2
[Return to FAQs] æ

Form 4a Type 1
All Form 4a assemblies require the
termination of all associated
external conductors, both line(s)
and neutral within the functional
unit. Separate/common neutral bars
do not fulfil this requirement.
Compartmentalised
Form 4a Type 1 also requires
the separation of;
(i) Busbars from functional units
(ii) Functional Units from each
other
(iii) Terminals for external
conductors from other terminals
and from the busbars.

Notes:
Forms of separation can be
achieved by using;
(i) Partitions/barriers of metallic or
non-metallic material
(ii) The integral housing of the
device
(iii) Terminal shrouds, shields and
dividers can be used to
contribute towards the required
degree of separation (IPXXB)
(iv) For neutral termination see
Other Considerations item 6.

The above illustration uses a combination of clauses covering The ‘a’ designation denotes
“Partitions and Barriers” and “Insulated Coverings”. terminals for external conductors
Note: Insulation around the are within the same compartment
busbar connection joints has as the functional unit.
been removed, in both images
to assist clarity. The ‘Type 1’ designation denotes
busbar separation is achieved by
Group Mounted insulated coverings – sleeving,
wrapping or coating.

The above illustration uses a combination of clauses covering

“Integral Housing of the Device” and “Insulated Coverings”.

Guide to Forms of Separation – Low Voltage Switchgear and Controlgear Assemblies to BS EN 61439-2 23
 Form 4a Type 2
All Form 4a assemblies require the
termination of all associated
external conductors, both line(s)
and neutral within the functional
unit. Separate/common neutral bars
do not fulfil this requirement.

Form 4a Type 2 also requires

the separation of;
(i) Busbars from functional units
(ii) Functional Units from each other
(iii) Terminals for external
conductors from other terminals
and from the busbars.

Notes:
Forms of separation can be
achieved by using;
(i) Partitions/barriers of metallic
or non-metallic material
(ii) The integral housing of the device
(iii) Terminal shrouds, shields and
dividers can be used to contribute
towards the required degree of
separation (IPXXB)
(iv) For neutral termination see
Other Considerations item 6.

The ‘a’ designation denotes

terminals for external conductors
are within the same compartment
to the functional unit.

The ‘Type 2’ designation denotes

busbar separation by partitions
and barriers.

24 Guide to Forms of Separation – Low Voltage Switchgear and Controlgear Assemblies to BS EN 61439-2
 Form 4a Type 3
All Form 4a assemblies require the
termination of all associated
external conductors, both line(s)
and neutral within the functional
unit. Separate/common neutral bars
do not fulfil this requirement.

Form 4a Type 3 also requires

the separation of;
(i) Busbars from functional units
(ii) Functional Units from each
other
(iii) Terminals for external
conductors from other terminals
and from the busbars
(iv) Individual, integral cable
glanding facilities are to be
provided for each circuit.

Notes:
Forms of separation can be
achieved by using;
(i) Partitions/barriers of metallic or
non-metallic material
(ii) The integral housing of the
device
(iii) Terminal shrouds, shields and
dividers can be used to
contribute towards the required
degree of separation (IPXXB)
The above illustration uses “Partitions and Barriers” as a means of separation. (iv) For neutral termination see
Cable terminations are integral to the device. Other Considerations item 6.

The ‘a’ designation denotes

terminals for external conductors
are within the same compartment
as the functional unit.

The ‘Type 3’ designation denotes

busbar separation by partitions and
barriers.

Guide to Forms of Separation – Low25

Voltage Switchgear and Controlgear Assemblies to BS EN 61439-2 25
Form 4b Type 4
All Form 4b assemblies require the
termination of all associated external
conductors, both line(s) and neutral
within a space separate from but
associated with the functional unit.
Separate/common neutral bars do
not fulfil this requirement.

Form 4b Type 4 also requires

the separation of;
(i) Busbars from functional units
(ii) Functional Units from each other
(iii) Terminals for external conductors
from their own functional unit,
other sets of terminals and
from the busbars.

Notes:
Forms of separation can
be achieved by using;
(i) Partitions/barriers of metallic
or non-metallic material
(ii) The integral housing of the device
(iii) Terminal shrouds, shields and
dividers can be used to contribute
towards the required degree of Note: Insulation around the
separation (IPXXB) busbar connection joints has
(iv) For neutral termination see Other been removed, to assist clarity.
Considerations item 6.

The ‘b’ designation denotes terminals

for external conductors are in a
separate compartment to the The above illustration uses a combination of clauses covering
functional unit. “Partitions and Barriers” and “Insulated Coverings” Cable
terminations are extended into separate individual compartments.
The ‘Type 4’ designation denotes
busbar separation is achieved by
insulating coverings – sleeving,
wrapping or coating.

26 Guide to Forms of Separation – Low Voltage Switchgear and Controlgear Assemblies to BS EN 61439-2
 Form 4b Type 5
All Form 4b assemblies require the
termination of all associated
external conductors, both line(s)
and neutral within a space
separate from but associated with
the functional unit. Separate/
common neutral bars do not fulfil
this requirement.

Form 4b Type 5 also requires

the separation of;
(i) Busbars from functional units
(ii) Functional Units from each
other
(iii) Terminals for external
conductors from their own
functional unit, other sets of
terminals and from the busbars
(iv) Separation of terminals for
external conductors to be
achieved by insulated coverings.

Notes:
Forms of separation can be
achieved by using;
(i) Partitions/barriers of metallic or
non-metallic material
(ii) The integral housing of the
device
(iii) Terminal shrouds, shields and
dividers can be used to
contribute towards the required
degree of separation (IPXXB)
The above illustration uses “Partitions and Barriers” as a means of (iv) For neutral termination see
separation and “insulated coverings” for separation of external Other Considerations item 6.
terminals.
The ‘b’ designation denotes
terminals for external conductors
are in a separate compartment to
the functional unit.

The ‘Type 5’ designation denotes

busbar separation by partitions and
barriers with outgoing terminals
separated by insulated coverings.

Guide to Forms of Separation – Low Voltage Switchgear and Controlgear Assemblies to BS EN 61439-2 27
 Form 4b Type 6
All Form 4b assemblies require the
termination of all associated
external conductors, both line(s)
and neutral within a space
separate from but associated
with the functional unit.
Separate/common neutral bars do
not fulfil this requirement.
Compartmentalised
Form 4b Type 6 also requires
the separation of;
(i) Busbars from functional units
(ii) Functional Units from
each other
(iii) Terminals for external
conductors from other terminals
and from the busbars.

Notes:
Forms of separation can
be achieved by using;
(i) Partitions/barriers of metallic
or non-metallic material
(ii) The integral housing
of the device
(iii) Terminal shrouds, shields and
dividers can be used to contribute
towards the required degree of
separation (IPXXB)
(iv) For neutral termination see
Other Considerations item 6.

The ‘b’ designation denotes The above illustration uses “Partitions and Barriers” as a means of separation and is
terminals for external conductors referred to as Compartmentalised.
are in a separate compartment Cable terminations are extended into separate individual compartments.
to the functional unit.

The ‘Type 6’ designation denotes

busbars and terminals are
separated by partitions Group Mounted
and barriers.

The above illustration uses the “Integral Housing of the Device” as a means of separation and
is referred to as Group Mounted.
Cable terminations are separated by terminal shields.

Where a device’s integral housing is the means of separation, the construction of the device
shall be such that it has a barrier which prevents access from the terminals for external
conductors, to the internal parts of the device.

28 Guide to Forms of Separation – Low Voltage Switchgear and Controlgear Assemblies to BS EN 61439-2
 Form 4b Type 7
All Form 4b assemblies require the
termination of all associated
external conductors, both line(s)
and neutral within a space
separate from but associated
with the functional unit.
Separate/common neutral bars do
not fulfil this requirement.

Form 4b Type 7 also requires

the separation of;
(i) Busbars from functional units
(ii) Functional Units from each
other
(iii) Terminals for external
conductors from other terminals
and from the busbars
(iv) Individual, integral cable
glanding facilities are to be
provided for each circuit.

Notes:
Forms of separation can be
achieved by using;
(i) Partitions/barriers of metallic or
non-metallic material
(ii) The integral housing of the
device
(iii) Terminal shrouds, shields and
dividers can be used to
contribute towards the required
degree of separation (IPXXB)
The above illustration uses “Partitions and Barriers” as a means of (iv) For neutral termination see
separation. Other Considerations item 6.
Cable terminations are extended into separate individual
compartments. The ‘b’ designation denotes
terminals for external conductors
are in a separate compartment to
the functional unit.

The ‘Type 7’ designation denotes

busbars and extended terminals
are separated by partitions and
barriers.

Guide to Forms of Separation – Low Voltage Switchgear and Controlgear Assemblies to BS EN 61439-2 29
Frequently Asked Questions

What are the responsibilities of a Duty Holder ?

Are there legal requirements as well as the LVD ?

How do I decide what form of separation is required ?

There are many types of Form 4 how do I decide which is

most appropriate to my application ?

Does all of an assembly have to be the same form ?

Where does the Neutral connect in a Form 4 assembly ?

For further details on the neutral connection click here to

shortcut to the Form 4 illustrations

Is the Neutral safe to touch ?

What are the technical requirements for the many forms of separation ?

Is there more than one method of achieving a form of separation ?

Does the form of separation affect the size of the assembly ?

Does the form of separation affect the cost of the assembly ?

What form of separation enables safe live working ?

Can the integral housing of the device provide separation ?

30 Guide to Forms of Separation – Low Voltage Switchgear and Controlgear Assemblies to BS EN 61439-2
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