BS 7540-1:2005 provides guidance for equipment manufacturers, installers and end-users on the properties of low voltage electric cables, and the limitations that are deemed to be necessary in order to safeguard life, buildings and goods.
The information is given in the form of limiting values and is illustrated by examples, which are not exhaustive but which indicate ways by which safety can be obtained.
This part of BS 7540 provides general guidance for the safe use of electric cables with a rated voltage not exceeding 450/750 V. It is applicable to those cables that are specified in BS 638-4, BS 6004, BS 6007, BS 6500, BS 7211 and BS 7919.
NOTE 1: These British Standards specify requirements for two categories of cable type. For cable types specified in Harmonized Documents HD 21 and HD 22 as implemented in these British Standards, specific guidance is given in BS 7540-2. For cable types specific to the United Kingdom that are specified in these standards but not included in HD 21 or HD 22, specific guidance is given in BS 7540-3.
The guidance given in this part of BS 7540 can also be applicable to low-voltage cables of a similar type to those specified in BS 638-4, BS 6004, BS 6007, BS 6500, BS 7211 and BS 7919 but not specifically mentioned in those standards.
NOTE 2: In such cases it is advisable to seek additional advice from BSI or the cable manufacturer.
BS 7540-1:2005 supersedes BS 7540:1994 which is withdrawn.
