This part of IEC 62271 applies to the procedures for handling of SF6 during installation, commissioning, normal and abnormal operations, disposal at the end-of-life of high-voltage switchgear and controlgear.

These procedures are regarded as minimum requirements to ensure the safety of personnel working with SF6 (see Annex B) and to minimize the SF6 emission to the environment.

This standard generally applies also to gas mixtures containing SF6. The particularities for their handling are covered in Annex J.

NOTE 1 Throughout this standard, use of the term High-Voltage (refer to IEC 60050-601:1985, 601-01-27) means a rated voltage above 1 000 V. However the term Medium Voltage (refer to IEC 60050-601: 1985, 601-01-28) is commonly used for distribution systems with voltages above 1 kV and generally applied up to and including 52 kV.

NOTE 2 Throughout this standard, the term "electric power equipment" stands for "high-voltage and medium-voltage switchgear and controlgear".

NOTE 3 Throughout this standard, the term "pressure" stands for "absolute pressure".