Understanding GSO BD-142004-01 for Low Voltage Electrical Equipment (LVE).
If you're exporting electrical appliances to the Gulf region, Cotecna can assist you in obtaining the G-Mark under the GSO Technical Regulation BD-142004-01. As a GSO Notified Body, Cotecna is authorized to certify Low Voltage Electrical Equipment and Appliances (LVE) for G-Mark compliance helping manufacturers and importers access GCC markets smoothly and confidently.
Since July 1st, 2016, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) requires all regulated electrical products to comply with the Gulf Technical Regulation for Low Voltage Electrical Equipment and Appliances (BD-142004-01). This regulation ensures that products meet the highest safety and quality standards, safeguarding consumers and promoting trust across GCC markets.
What Products Are Covered?
Appliances listed under LVE regulation include:
- Household appliances (air conditioners, refrigerators, heaters, etc.)
- Kitchen appliances
- Battery chargers
- Socket outlets
- Other low voltage electrical devices
These products must be certified and bear the G-Mark before being placed on any GCC market.
Key Safety Requirements
The regulation highlights several hazard protection concepts that must be addressed in the product's design and manufacturing process:
- Physical: Products must display clear electrical specifications and include usage instructions in Arabic. Design should consider lifecycle, durability, and manufacturability.
- Electrical: Protection against electric shock or physical injury from direct or indirect contact.
- Thermal: Must limit risks of overheating, radiation, or electromagnetic emissions.
- Mechanical: Protection against non-electrical hazards such as shock or impact.
- Construction: Use of suitable materials, proper insulation, and safe design, even under foreseeable misuse.
- Supply Compatibility: Products must align with each GCC country’s electrical specifications (see table below).
Electrical Standards in GCC Countries
|
Country |
Rated Voltage |
Frequency |
Plug Types |
|
UAE |
230/400V ±10%/6% |
50 Hz ±0.5% (1%) |
C/D/G |
|
Bahrain |
230/400V ±6% |
50 Hz ±0.5% (1%) |
G |
|
Saudi Arabia |
127/220V ±5% (domestic), 220/380V ±5% (industrial) |
60 Hz ±0.1 |
G |
|
Oman |
240/415V ±6% |
50 Hz ±0.5% (1%) |
C/G |
|
Qatar |
240/415V ±6% |
50 Hz ±0.5% (1%) |
D/G |
|
Kuwait |
240/415V ±6% |
50 Hz ±0.5% (1%) |
C/G |
|
Yemen |
240/415V ±6% |
50 Hz |
A/D/G |
Note: For the most up-to-date plug and socket requirements, refer to the IEC website
Want to learn more?
Download our FREE Introductory Guide to the Gulf Technical Regulation for Low Voltage Electrical Equipment and Appliances or contact us to get started with your G-Mark application.
About Cotecna
For over 50 years, we have been supporting agriculture, food and pharma, minerals and metals, and consumer products supply chains all over the world. We provide testing, inspection, and certification services to help our clients navigate evolving regulations, ensure product compliance, and support their sustainability journey.