A FuP (Level 1S/1E) may work on high-voltage vehicles under direct supervision of a qualified FHV. They may carry out assembly tasks, measurements and inspections in the voltage-free state – but only when the FHV has completed de-energisation and verified voltage freedom. A FuP may not de-energise independently or verify the voltage-free state.

What is the difference between FuP and FHV?

A FuP (Level 1S/1E) requires supervision by an FHV at all times. An FHV (Level 2S and above) may work independently, de-energise vehicles, verify voltage-free status and supervise FuP personnel. The FHV qualification requires an electrical trade background; the FuP qualification is open to all technical workers.

How long does Level 1S/1E training take?

Level 1S/1E training (FuP) comprises 4 to 8 teaching periods (each 45 min). The exact scope depends on the entry route: workshop technicians with basic electrical knowledge qualify for the shorter path. There is no mandatory in-person practical component – the training can be delivered online.

FuP – Qualified Instructed Person HV: Level 1S/1E Explained

What May a FuP Do – and What Not?

The key distinction for a FuP is always: the FHV must have already de-energised the vehicle and verified voltage freedom. Only then may the FuP work. The following overview shows clearly what is and is not permitted:

Permitted ✓

Assembly and disassembly of HV components in the voltage-free state – under FHV supervision
Measurements and inspections in the voltage-free state (after FHV clearance)
Handling and using HV PPE (insulating gloves, face shield, VDE tools)
Documentation tasks: filling in work orders, test records under FHV guidance
Supporting the FHV during de-energisation – observing, not performing

Not Permitted ✗

Independent de-energisation of HV vehicles (not even partially)
Verifying or documenting voltage freedom – only the FHV may do this
Any HV work without a present FHV
Supervising or instructing other FuP workers
Preparing risk assessments for HV work

Who Needs FuP Qualification?

FuP qualification (Level 1S or 1E) is required for any technical employee who regularly works in the vicinity of or on high-voltage vehicles – even if they do not independently perform electrical work:

Workshop technicians who assist in HV repairs or change HV components under FHV supervision
Bodyshop staff who work on vehicles with HV systems – even for body repairs, the battery must first be safely managed
Roadside assistance and recovery who handle HV vehicles – e.g. during towing or accident recovery
Inspection and test personnel in fleet operations and logistics with electric vehicles
Production workers in EV assembly who handle HV components at their workstation

Important: Level 1S applies to series production vehicles (after SoP). Level 1E additionally covers prototypes and development vehicles. For standard workshops, Level 1S is sufficient in almost all cases.

Training Duration – Level 1S/1E

Level 1S/1E training (FuP) is comparatively compact. DGUV 209-093 specifies:

Typical scope: 4 to 8 teaching TP (each 45 min) – depending on participants' prior knowledge
No mandatory in-person practical component – training can be delivered entirely online
Content: HV hazards, 5 safety rules (DGUV Regulation 3), correct use of PPE, emergency procedures, role boundaries
Completion: written learning outcome check; certificate issued immediately
Annual refresher briefing required to maintain qualification validity

FuP vs. FHV – Direct Comparison

The crucial difference: an FHV may work independently and de-energise vehicles. A FuP always needs an FHV present as supervisor.

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
Supervising others	Not permitted	May supervise FuP
Training duration	4–8 teaching TP	16 teaching periods (2 days)

Book Level 1S/1E Training Now

FuP training online or on-site – DGUV-compliant, with digital certificate. Also available as group training for teams of 10+.

Start Course Advisor Get a Quote

What is a FuP?