GAMBICA Position Paper - Touch Current Limits - 2025.pdf
01 January 2025
GAMBICA's Position on Touch Current Limits.
In summary historically, routine tests on workplace electrical equipment have relied on the IET Code of Practice for guidance. Recently, two new standards were published: BS EN 50678 (post-repair protective measure checks) and BS EN 50699 (recurrent tests). Both standards endorse the IET Code but differ significantly in touch current limits.
According to IEC 60479-1, a basic safety publication, currents not exceeding 0.5 mA are deemed safe for human perception, with no startled reaction. Both BS EN 50678 and BS EN 50699 adopt this 0.5 mA touch current limit, aligning with product standards like BS EN 62368-1 and BS EN 61010-1. These standards stipulate a touch current limit of 0.5 mA for accessible parts.
However, the revised IET Code of Practice raises the touch current limit to 5 mA—significantly higher than the standards—and might cause startled reactions, potentially leading to indirect injuries during equipment use. This discrepancy could lead to confusion in safety testing, with Gambica members opting to align test equipment with the 0.5 mA limit of BS EN 50678 and BS EN 50699.