Standards Update: North American Low-Voltage Surge Protective Devices

Perhaps the most recognized industry standard in North America for surge protectors may be UL 1449, the Standard for Safety for Surge Protective Devices ranging in applications from surge arresters (1000v ac max) to service entrance and distribution panels to plug-in surge strips. The standard was officially adopted as an ANSI standard in May 2010 and a supplement specific to the evaluation of Photovoltaic applications is expected in 2011. However, it is important to keep in mind that UL 1449 is first and foremost a safety standard. For more in-depth information regarding characterization of the surge environment, test methods and the application of these devices, the IEEE C62 standards are the definitive source in North America.