What May an FHV Do?
The FHV qualification is the minimum requirement for independent work on high-voltage vehicles. Without an FHV in the organisation, work on HV vehicles under DGUV 209-093 is not permitted.
- Independently de-energise HV vehicles (service disconnect, vehicle-specific procedure)
- Verify and document the voltage-free state with a CAT III multimeter
- Work on HV systems and components in the voltage-free state
- Supervise and instruct FuP (Level 1S/1E) personnel
- Prepare and approve risk assessments for HV work
- Level 3S/3E additionally: work under active HV voltage (live HV working)
FHV Qualification Levels
DGUV Information 209-093 divides FHV qualification into four levels. The letters S (Series) and E (Engineering/Development) indicate the vehicle type:
Level 2S
FHV – Series Vehicles
De-energisation and voltage-free work on series production vehicles (after SoP)
Level 2E
FHV – Development
As Level 2S, additionally covering prototypes, pre-series and development vehicles
Level 3S
FHV Live Work – Series
Fault diagnosis under active HV voltage – series production vehicles
Level 3E
FHV Live Work – Development
As Level 3S, additionally for prototypes, test rigs and development environments
FHV vs. FuP – The Key Difference
| Criterion | FuP (Level 1S/1E) | FHV (Level 2S+) |
|---|
| De-energisation | Not permitted independently | Permitted independently |
| Voltage-free verification | Not permitted | Required, must document |
| HV work | Only under FHV supervision | Independently |
| Supervision of others | Not permitted | May supervise FuP |
| Risk assessment | Not permitted to prepare | Prepares and approves |
Requirements to Become an FHV
The prerequisite for FHV qualification under DGUV 209-093 is a recognised electrical trade qualification (Elektrofachkraft) under DGUV Regulation 3. This typically means:
- Completed apprenticeship as an automotive mechatronics specialist or electrician
- Or equivalent professional qualification recognised as an Elektrofachkraft
- Completion of an accredited HV training course (Level 2S or higher)
- Annual safety briefing to maintain the qualification
- Refresher training every 3 years, or after more than 12 months without HV contact
Does every workshop need an FHV?
Yes – any workshop that services, repairs or works on HV vehicles must have at least one qualified FHV. Without an on-site FHV, no HV work including de-energisation may take place. The employer is legally required under BetrSichV and ArbSchG to ensure the required qualifications are in place before assigning HV work.
Does an FHV qualification expire?
The certificate itself does not have a hard expiry, but DGUV 209-093 recommends a refresher course at the latest after 3 years and after any break in HV contact of more than 12 months. An annual safety briefing is also required. Without these, the qualification may be considered lapsed in the event of an accident.
Can a FuP become an FHV?
Yes. A Level 1S/1E qualified FuP can progress to FHV by completing a Level 2S (or 2E) course. However, the prerequisite of being an Elektrofachkraft must be met first. An Fachkundig unterwiesene Person (FuP) who is not an Elektrofachkraft cannot qualify as an FHV regardless of course attendance.