The DGUV-V3 Inspection is the periodic inspection of electrical systems and equipment—from power drills to stationary systems. It is required by law and helps prevent fires and electrical accidents. This article explains the requirements, inspection intervals, the difference between stationary and portable equipment, and the inspection process.
The DGUV-V3 Inspection Regular safety inspections of electrical systems and equipment in accordance with the DGUV Regulation 3. It ensures that electrical equipment does not pose a hazard to employees. The inspection includes a visual inspection, measurements (e.g., protective conductor resistance and insulation resistance), and a functional test.
Yes. The obligation arises from the DGUV Regulation 3 in connection with the Industrial Safety Regulation and the Occupational Safety and Health Act. Every employer must have electrical equipment inspected before it is first put into service and at regular intervals thereafter.
The inspection intervals depend on the type of equipment:
| Type | Examples | Guideline: Test Period |
|---|---|---|
| Portable Equipment | Drill, extension cord, laptop power adapter | every 6 months to 24 months* |
| Fixed Installations | Permanently installed machines, distribution units | every 4 years |
| Safety Measures / Ground-Fault Circuit Interrupters | RCDs in Non-Stationary Installations | up to 6 months on weekdays |
*Guideline value depending on operating conditions: In office environments, longer intervals are typical, while on construction sites, they are significantly shorter. If the Error rate below 2 %, the deadlines may be extended.
The exam may consist of only one Certified Electrician (EFK) or by a person trained in electrical work under the supervision of a qualified electrician. Testing is performed in accordance with the standards VDE 0701-0702 (Recertification testing of portable equipment) and VDE 0105 (systems).
If you use a lot of electrical equipment, it’s easy to lose track of the different inspection deadlines for fixed and portable equipment without a system in place.
With a digital equipment and tool management system such as Inventory ONE If you enter the next inspection date for each device, Automatic reminder before the deadline and place Digital Test Reports from—by scanning a barcode or QR code directly on the device. Learn more on our pages about Tool management and Device management.
DGUV Regulation 3, „Electrical Systems and Equipment“ (formerly BGV A3), governs the regular inspection of electrical devices and systems in the workplace.
Portable equipment every 6 to 24 months, depending on its use; stationary systems every 4 years. These are guidelines and depend on the risk assessment.
Only a licensed electrician or a person working under the electrician's direction and supervision.
The cost depends primarily on the number of devices. For details, see our article on DGUV V3 inspection costs.
This article is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. The applicable regulations and the risk assessment for your workplace are authoritative.
This post is part of our series on the safe inspection of work equipment and electrical devices:
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