Standards.

The VDE standards (DIN VDE regulations) define the electrical engineering requirements in accordance with DGUV Regulation 3 (accident prevention regulation for electrical installations and equipment). They form the legally binding basis for the safe installation, manufacture, and operation of electrical systems, devices, and equipment. To ensure efficient and safe implementation of the electrical testing procedures prescribed in the VDE standards (mandatory tests), dataTec offers state-of-the-art VDE measuring and test instruments that simplify the required work steps and allow automation of test sequences.

The VDE standards are safety regulations intended to ensure effective protection of persons and property, preventing accidents and damage. The regulations developed by the Association for Electrical, Electronic & Information Technologies (VDE) become generally binding through statutory provisions or corresponding ordinances, defining operational and safety requirements for electrical installations. For example, the obligation to test according to standards VDE 0701 and 0702, VDE 0100, and EN 60204-1 (VDE 0113-1) as well as the qualification requirements for test personnel as defined in the Ordinance on Industrial Safety and Health (BetrSichV) are legally specified.

DGUV Regulation 3 (German Social Accident Insurance Regulation 3) defines the legal framework for the inspection and maintenance of electrical installations and equipment. The specific technical testing requirements and criteria are defined in the relevant DIN VDE standards. Accordingly, DGUV V3 requires companies and operators to conduct regular safety inspections of electrical equipment (mandatory tests). It specifies the general requirements and testing intervals to ensure occupational safety.

The details—such as how the tests must be carried out, which test methods are to be applied, and which limit values apply—are defined in the individual VDE standards (e.g. DIN VDE 0701 for equipment testing, DIN VDE 0105-100 for electrical installations, or DIN VDE 0113-1 for machinery). Therefore, tests performed in accordance with DGUV V3 are often referred to as “VDE tests.” In short: DGUV V3 defines that testing must be performed, and the VDE standards specify what and how to test.

Depending on the applicable VDE standard, a specific qualification level of the test personnel is required. As a rule, the prescribed electrical tests must be performed by a qualified electrician (Elektrofachkraft).

A qualified electrician is defined as a person who, based on their technical education and expertise, is authorized to perform and supervise electrical work. In Germany, this typically requires formal vocational training or an academic degree in electrical engineering. Depending on the type of equipment, installation, and test procedure, a “person instructed in electrical engineering” (EuP) or even the operator of a suitable measuring and test instrument may be authorized to perform the test.

Investing in appropriate test equipment can significantly expand the group of qualified test personnel and increase company productivity. Personnel and training planning can thus be more cost-effective, and the need to engage external service providers for testing can often be eliminated.

DIN VDE 0100-600 is specifically intended for the initial inspection of new or modified installations to ensure safety and functionality before first commissioning.

DIN VDE 0105-100 focuses on operation and periodic re-testing during ongoing service. However, it also includes provisions for recommissioning after extended shutdowns or repairs. The objective is to ensure safe operation after maintenance or downtime, but not to perform a full installation acceptance test as required by VDE 0100-600.

Summary: Both standards include testing requirements related to the commissioning of electrical installations: DIN VDE 0100-600: Acceptance testing of new or modified installations. DIN VDE 0105-100: Requirements for safe operation and periodic re-testing during service. They complement each other throughout the lifecycle of an electrical installation—initial acceptance under 0100-600, followed by regular re-testing under 0105-100.

Stationary installations are systems permanently connected to their environment, such as building installations, site trailers, containers, or vehicle-mounted systems. Examples include sockets, power and data cabling, etc.

Non-stationary installations are characterized by being assembled, operated, and then dismantled and reassembled at a new location in accordance with their intended use. Typical examples include installations on construction or assembly sites and temporary (mobile) structures.

The VDE standards are part of the DIN standards (German Institute for Standardization). The standard designation therefore includes both a DIN and a VDE number, for example, DIN 57100 VDE 0100, usually abbreviated as DIN VDE 0100. VDE regulations are nationally valid but may also be harmonized at the European level, in which case the designation follows DIN EN (European Standard).
The VDE standards framework is divided into nine groups (DIN VDE 00xx to DIN VDE 08xx):

Group 0: General principles and terminology
Group 1: Power systems
Group 2: Conductors (wires and cables)
Group 3: Insulating materials (insulators, superconductors, etc.)
Group 4: Monitoring and protection technology (fire detection, radiation protection, etc.)
Group 5: Machines and converters (e.g. batteries)
Group 6: Installation materials and switching devices (electrical installation components)
Group 7: Consumer and work equipment (e.g. household appliances, power tools, luminaires)
Group 8: Information technology (communication systems and antenna installations)

VDE standards require periodic testing of machines, installations, and equipment (mandatory tests). Only indicative values are recommended for intervals and documentation; no fixed universal test intervals exist. Companies subject to testing obligations must determine reasonable and safe intervals based on a risk assessment. Typical intervals range between six months and four years. Compliance and documentation of these intervals are legally binding and a prerequisite for insurance coverage and liability in the event of damage.

Common industry practices include: 

• Portable electrical equipment (e.g. monitors, coffee machines): every 24 months minimum; annually or more frequently in workshops and production areas. 
• Fixed electrical installations/equipment (e.g. main distribution boards, sockets): at least every 4 years. 
• Residual Current Devices (RCDs/FI switches): function test using the test button every six months; more frequent testing may be required in special or high-risk environments.

Regular electrical testing helps prevent workplace accidents and reduces costs associated with unforeseen maintenance, repairs, or unplanned downtime. Failure to perform the prescribed tests constitutes a criminal offense. In the event of damage, employers’ liability insurance associations and insurance companies will only cover costs if DGUV V3 testing intervals have been demonstrably observed and a corresponding test report is available.
The responsibility for implementing and maintaining the testing requirements and intervals lies with the plant operator or company management. Initial testing prior to first commissioning is usually performed by the manufacturer of the device or installation and must be properly documented.