MSSL has provided a column on LV switchgear safety standards for the latest edition of Panel Building and System Integration (PBSI) magazine.

MSSL Managing Director, Sean Smith, was commissioned to write the editorial piece to consider the BS EN IEC 61439 standard.

Sean, who chairs the LV Switchboards and Busbar Systems Group in BEAMA’s Building Electrical Systems sector, uses the article to share valuable expertise on safety standards.

BS EN IEC 61439 was introduced in 2009, replacing the BS EN 60439 standard that was withdrawn in 2014. The updated standard provides a framework for ensuring safety and reliability of conformities in the design and manufacture of low-voltage switchgear assemblies.

Failures within switchgear manufacturing are rare, but impact can be severe and can come years after installation. Strict adherence to all industry standards is therefore essential in the manufacture of high-standard switchboards.

Reflecting on the importance of safety standards in the PBSI feature, Sean writes: “Applying the relevant parts of the BS EN IEC 61439 series to all low-voltage switchgear assemblies reduces the likelihood of crucial operational failures.

“It provides a defensible framework for compliance and quality assurance, which supports both safe use and customer confidence.”

Shaping industry standards

As a BEAMA board member, Sean represents UK manufacturers working to elevate safety and quality across the sector. His leadership includes serving on the executive strategy committee and chairing the LV Switchboard and Busbar Systems Group. Where he collaborates with thought leaders to shape policies that secure the future of electrical safety.

Sean’s approach at BEAMA reflects MSSL’s own values - blending technical excellence with a strong sustainability ethos. At MSSL, safety is built into every process, with comprehensive quality policies and procedures, demonstrated by its four ISO accreditations covering quality, people, health and safety, and environmental standards.

The PBSI article comes after Sean was last year commissioned by Electrical Contracting News earlier to write a column about British manufacturing standards.