prEN IEC 61009-1:2026

This document gives general requirements and tests for residual current operated circuit-breakers with integral overcurrent protection for household and similar uses (hereafter referred to as RCBOs), for rated operational voltages not exceeding 440 V AC, with rated frequencies of 50 Hz, 60 Hz or 50/60 Hz and rated currents not exceeding 125 A and rated short-circuit capacities not exceeding 25 000 A.
RCBOs are intended to provide fault protection (previously referred to as protection against indirect contact), the exposed conductive parts of the installation being connected to an appropriate earth electrode. These devices are also intended to protect against overcurrents in the wiring installations of buildings and similar applications. They are also intended to be used to provide protection against fire hazards due to a persistent earth fault current.
RCBOs having a rated residual operating current not exceeding 30 mA are used for fault protection and additional protection in the case of failure of the protective provisions against electric shock.
This document applies to RCBOs performing simultaneously the functions of detection of the residual current, of comparison of the value of this current with the residual operating value and of opening of the protected circuit when the residual current exceeds this value. These devices also perform the function of making, carrying and breaking overcurrents under specified
conditions.
NOTE 1 The requirements for RCBOs are in line with the group safety publication IEC 60755.
NOTE 2 RCBOs of type AC and type A are covered by the IEC 61009 series. RCBOs of type F and type B are covered by IEC 62423 in conjunction with the IEC 61009 series.
NOTE 3 Installation and selection rules for RCBOs are given in the IEC 60364 series.
NOTE 4 The content of this document related to operation under residual current conditions is based on IEC 61008-1. The content of this document related to protection against overcurrents is based on IEC 60898-1.
RCBOs are intended to be operated by ordinary or uninstructed persons and designed not to require maintenance.
The requirements of this document apply for standard conditions (see 7.1). Additional requirements can be necessary for RCBOs used in locations which have severe environmental conditions. RCBOs within the scope of this document are intended for use in an environment with pollution degree 2 (see 7.3).
NOTE 5 For environments with higher pollution degrees, enclosures giving the appropriate degree of protection can be used.
NOTE 6 For RCBOs having a degree of protection higher than IP20 special constructions can be required.