1. Core Standard: IEC 62841 Series
This is the primary global safety standard system for handheld electric power tools.
General Requirements: IEC 62841-1 specifies the general safety requirements for handheld electric power tools.
Specific Requirements for Angle Grinders: IEC 62841-2-3 outlines the specific safety requirements for angle grinders, disc-type polishers, and disc-type sanders. It applies to angle, straight, and vertical tools with a rated capacity not exceeding 230 mm, where the rated no-load speed results in a peripheral speed of the accessory not exceeding 80 m/s. This standard does not apply to dedicated cut-off machines, orbital polishers/sanders, or die grinders. The latest version is IEC 62841-2-3:2020+AMD1:2024.
2. European Standards: EN 62841 / EN 60745
European standards are generally highly harmonized with IEC standards.
EN 62841 Series: These correspond directly to the IEC 62841 series; for instance, EN IEC 62841-2-3:2021 is the European adoption of IEC 62841-2-3.
EN 60745 Series (Legacy): This is the previous generation of core standards, which is currently being phased out and replaced by the EN 62841 series. EN 60745-2-3 previously governed the safety requirements for angle grinders with a rated capacity of up to 230 mm. Many existing products remain certified under this standard.
3. North American Standards: UL 60745 / CSA C22.2 No. 60745
The North American market maintains its own independent certification system, though its technical content is harmonized with IEC standards. UL 60745-2-3: A standard published by Underwriters Laboratories (UL) that is technically harmonized with IEC 60745-2-3; it applies to angle grinders with a rated capacity not exceeding 230 mm.
CSA C22.2 No. 60745-2-3: A standard from the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) that serves as a binational standard alongside the UL version, collectively applicable to the North American market.
4. Standards for Specialized Tools: ISO 19432
For portable, hand-held cut-off machines powered by internal combustion engines (such as gasoline-powered cut-off saws), ISO 19432-1:2020 applies-rather than the aforementioned standards for electric power tools. This standard specifies safety requirements and verification methods for such equipment.
