This National Standard of Canada is based on International Standard IEC 61730-1:2004.

1 Scope and object

This part of IEC 61730 describes the fundamental construction requirements for photovoltaic
(PV) modules in order to provide safe electrical and mechanical operation during their
expected lifetime. Specific topics are provided to assess the prevention of electrical shock,
fire hazards, and personal injury due to mechanical and environmental stresses. This part of
IEC 61730 pertains to the particular requirements of construction. IEC 61730-2 outlines the
requirements of testing.

This standard attempts to define the basic requirements for various application classes of PV
modules, but it cannot be considered to encompass all national or regional building codes.
The specific requirements for marine and vehicle applications are not covered. This standard
is not applicable to modules with integrated AC inverters (AC modules).

This standard is designed so that its test sequence can coordinate with those of IEC 61215 or
IEC 61646, so that a single set of samples may be used to perform both the safety and
performance evaluation of a photovoltaic module design.

The object of this document is to provide basic guidance in certifying the fundamental
construction of photovoltaic modules presented for safety approval by testing under
IEC 61730-2. These requirements are intended to minimise the misapplication and misuse of
modules or the breakdown of internal components which would result in fire, electric shock
and personal injury. The standard defines the basic safety construction requirements and
additional tests that are a function of the module end-use applications.

Component requirements are intended to provide evidence of performance of that component
appropriate to its application in the module construction and environment.

NOTE The additional construction requirements outlined in relevant ISO standards, or the national or local codes
which govern the installation and use of these modules in their intended locations, should be considered in addition
to the requirements contained within this document.

The requirements of CAN/CSA-C22.2 No. 61730-1 and CAN/CSA-C22.2 No. 61730-2 address flat-plate
PV modules that are used in systems where the maximum system voltage is equal to or less than 1000 V.

This Standard applies to the safety of such equipment designed to be installed and used in accordance
with the rules of the Canadian Electrical Code, Part I, and CSA C22.2 No. 0.

Note: Manufacturers designing products for use in Canada may find a helpful summary of the equipment related
requirements of the Canadian Electrical Code, Part I, in CSA SPE-2000.