Training course NEN 9140 2024 – Working safely on electric vehicles

NEN 9140 applies to vehicles with electrical systems from 60 volts DC or 30 volts AC, with a focus on working safely with high-voltage systems. The one-day training course “NEN 9140 2024 – Working safely with electric vehicles” is part of the Snap-on Academy. The training course covers both the VOP (Adequately Trained Person) and VP (Competent Person) modules, and a certificate can be obtained for both modules.

Upon completion, trainees will be able to disconnect electrical and plug-in hybrid vehicles from the power supply and will be authorised to work on these vehicles. Elsewhere, this combined training course is often offered as two separate modules on two separate days. With the Snap-on Academy, however, trainees can become both VP and VOP in a single day.

Health and Safety Act: working safely on electric vehicles

In order to work on plug-in hybrid and electric vehicles, companies and technicians must comply with the Working Conditions Act (Arbowet) standard NEN 9140 ‘working safely on e-vehicles’. In addition to tools, workshop equipment and accessories, Snap-on Tools offers training courses for technicians who work on plug-in hybrid and electric vehicles.

If something goes wrong when working on plug-in hybrid and electric vehicles, the consequences can be serious. Employees can suffer life-threatening electric shocks when exposed to high voltages. There is a risk of fire if a short circuit occurs or if the battery is damaged. In addition, incorrect repairs or assembly errors can negatively affect the performance of the vehicle, compromising safety.

Prevent injury and (business) damage

Technicians must follow specific safety procedures, such as switching off high-voltage systems, wearing protective equipment and undergoing appropriate training to minimise risks. It is crucial to be aware of the risks and precautions when working on plug-in hybrid and electric cars to prevent accidents and dangerous situations.

High voltages are generated in the batteries and drive systems of plug-in hybrid and electric cars. If someone is not properly trained or does not take the appropriate precautions, an electric shock can occur, resulting in injury or even death.

Plug-in hybrid and electric vehicles have large and powerful battery packs. Incorrect work on these batteries or damage to them can cause fires, which are not only dangerous for the person working on them, but also for bystanders and property in the vicinity.

Mechanical damage, warranty and insurance

Electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles feature advanced technologies and delicate components. If mechanical damage is caused while working on the vehicle, important functions may be compromised, potentially leading to unexpected issues on the road.

If an unauthorised person works on an electric vehicle and problems arise, this may result in the loss of warranty and insurance for the vehicle owner.

In most cases, the person working on a vehicle is responsible for performing the work correctly and following the appropriate safety procedures. If they are a professional mechanic or technician, they are expected to have undergone the appropriate training and to be competent in working on electric vehicles.

Penalties for improperly working on an electric vehicle may vary depending on the severity of the situation and local laws. In some jurisdictions, violations may result in fines, licence revocation, criminal prosecution, and civil liability for any damage or injury.

Snap-on Academy NEN 9140 2024 practical training

Working under voltage is prohibited by law, but this is difficult to achieve when working on electric vehicles due to inseparable voltage sources such as the battery. Special attention must also be paid to how non-electrical engineers, such as fire brigades or salvage companies, can work safely on electric vehicles. For example, control points must be put in place to prevent their actions from causing damage, such as personal injury or fire.

For more information, visit https://academy.snap-on.eu, contact the Snap-on Tools franchisee in your region, or register at https://events.snap-on.eu.