Definition per DGUV Information 209-093, Section 2 No. 7:
"A sensitised person is anyone who has been instructed on the intended use of high-voltage vehicles and components."
Source: DGUV Information 209-093, Edition 2023
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DGUV Information 209-093 defines two parallel qualification pathways – one for development vehicles (E-track) and one for production series vehicles (S-track). The sensitised person is the entry level of both tracks.
Level S
Series vehicles (after SoP)
Applies to all employees who come into contact with production HV vehicles: drivers, cleaning staff, service receptionists, warehouse workers, fleet managers.
SoP = Start of Production. The vehicle is in regular series production.
Level E
Development vehicles (before SoP)
Applies to employees working with prototype and development vehicles without accessing HV components: test drivers, logistics staff, vehicle preparers.
Content is nearly identical to Level S – the difference is the vehicle type and the typically higher risk associated with prototypes.
What may an HV-Sensitised Person do – and what not?
An HV-Sensitised Person may use HV vehicles in accordance with their intended purpose. Any intervention in the HV system is expressly prohibited.
✓ Permitted (Level S/E)
Enter, drive, and exit an HV vehicle
Charge via designated charging connectors on the vehicle
Top up engine oil, coolant, and washer fluid
Replace windscreen wiper blades
Interior and exterior cleaning of the vehicle
Prepare vehicles for test drives (Level E)
Operate new controls and connectors (after instruction)
✗ Not permitted (Level S/E)
Opening HV components or covers
Working on HV cables, connectors, or battery
De-energising (switching off) the HV system
Verifying absence of voltage
Any repair work on the HV vehicle
Assisting during HV maintenance work
Supervising or instructing other persons
Special hazard – recovery and towing: DGUV 209-093 explicitly notes that additional hazards can arise during accidents, damage incidents, and when recovering or towing HV vehicles. In these situations, a FuP (Level 1S) or FHV (Level 2S) must be consulted.
Training scope – what does the standard prescribe?
Unlike the FuP (minimum 2 teaching units) and the FHV (minimum 8 teaching units), DGUV Information 209-093 does not prescribe a minimum number of teaching units for Level S/E sensitisation. It is not a formal qualification but an instruction on intended use.
In practice, a structured sensitisation session typically takes 2 to 4 hours and covers:
Basics of high-voltage technology: why HV current is dangerous
Documentation and company-specific protective measures
Documentation tip: Even though no standardised certificate is required, sensitisation should be documented in writing – date, content, instructor, and the trained employee's signature. This serves as evidence during workplace safety inspections and in the event of an incident.
Who may conduct the sensitisation?
According to DGUV Information 209-093, Sections 5.1.2 and 4.1.2, the sensitisation may be conducted by:
Level 3S/3EFHV – Live HV WorkingWork on active HV systems
Frequently asked questions
DGUV Information 209-093 does not set a fixed renewal interval for Level S/E sensitisation. However, an annual safety briefing is strongly recommended under DGUV Regulation 1 – particularly whenever vehicle models or internal procedures change.
No. Technicians who carry out maintenance or repair work on HV vehicles need at least the FuP qualification (Level 1S). For independent de-energisation and work on the HV system, the FHV qualification (Level 2S) is required. Level S/E is exclusively for tasks equivalent to normal vehicle use.
Yes. DGUV Information 209-093 covers all HV vehicles with a nominal voltage above 60 V DC or 25 V AC – this includes plug-in hybrids, full hybrids, and fuel cell vehicles. Mild hybrids with 48 V systems are generally subject to lower protection classes, but should be assessed individually.
In the event of an accident or fire involving an HV vehicle, a sensitised person must not attempt to secure the vehicle independently. They should keep a safe distance (at least 5–10 m), call emergency services (fire brigades are trained for HV incidents), and not touch the vehicle. Attempting to "earth" the vehicle by touching it provides no protection and is dangerous.