The GCC technical regulation for low-voltage electrical equipment and appliances covers a wide range of electrical equipment entering the Saudi market through the SABER platform. Understanding the nature of this regulation helps the importer or manufacturer know the general regulatory framework that may apply to their product, before going into the details of the pathway.
What Is the Scope of This Regulation?
The regulation covers electrical and electronic equipment, appliances, and fittings containing electrical or electronic components designed to operate at a voltage ranging between 50 and 1000 volts for alternating current, and between 75 and 1500 volts for direct current, taking into account the exceptions stated in the official text of the regulation.
Does It Apply to All Electrical Equipment?
It is not correct to assume that every electrical device automatically falls within the scope of this regulation in the same way, or that all electrical devices are subject specifically to this regulation and no other. Some categories may overlap with other technical regulations depending on the nature and use of the product, and determining this requires reviewing the product itself, not just its general category.
What Do We Review to Determine Applicability?
We review the nature of the device or equipment, the operating voltage, the intended use, and the technical characteristics shown in the product data, to determine whether this regulation is the appropriate framework for its case, or whether another regulation is more relevant to the type of product.
What Might the Conformity Pathway Require?
The conformity pathway under this regulation may require an assessment by a conformity assessment body accepted by the Authority, and this assessment may be based on technical test reports depending on the nature of the product and the standard applied to it. The documents and tests actually required differ from one product to another, and are determined only after reviewing the product’s specific situation and pathway. Depending on the product’s classification within the regulation, the conformity pathway may be based on a supplier’s declaration of conformity supported by technical documents, while other products require an assessment by an authorized conformity assessment body according to the pathway specified for them. For this reason, a single pathway cannot be assumed for all equipment and appliances subject to this regulation.
How Does SaberVerify Help?
We review the product’s data, description, and technical characteristics, clarify whether this regulation is the closest regulatory framework to its case, and help determine the potential requirements based on the product’s situation. When needed, we coordinate with the appropriate conformity assessment body or laboratory to complete what the pathway requires.
SaberVerify is an independent platform; it is not a government entity, not a conformity assessment body, not a testing laboratory, and not an accreditation body. Official determination of the regulation’s applicability and the issuance of conformity certificates are handled through the entities authorized to do so within the SABER system.
To review whether this regulation applies to your product, you can fill out the product requirements check form, or contact us directly.
