Glossary · DGUV 209-093
HV Test Record
HV Test Record (Prüfprotokoll Hochvolt): The mandatory written documentation of every HV de-energisation. It records the measured residual voltage, the instrument used, and the responsible FHV specialist's signature. Required by BetrSichV §3 and DGUV 209-093 – no de-energisation without documentation.
Mandatory Content of the HV Test Record
A compliant HV test record must contain all of the following fields. Missing any field can invalidate the record for liability purposes:
- Vehicle identification – VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) and/or registration number
- Date and time – exact timestamp of the de-energisation
- Specific test points – where on the vehicle the voltage was measured (as defined in the manufacturer's service manual)
- Measured residual voltage – the actual meter reading at each test point (must be < 60 V DC)
- Measurement instrument – make, model and most recent calibration date of the multimeter used
- Name and signature of the responsible FHV specialist performing the de-energisation
- Work to be performed – brief description of the subsequent maintenance task
Legal Basis and Employer Liability
The obligation to document HV de-energisation arises from §3 BetrSichV (German Industrial Safety Regulation) and the general duty-of-care provisions of ArbSchG (Occupational Safety Act). In the event of a workplace accident involving HV voltage, the absence of documentation is treated as evidence of negligence and can result in:
- Employer liability for damages and personal injury compensation
- Potential criminal liability for the responsible manager or business owner
- Loss of occupational accident insurance cover (Berufsgenossenschaft)
- Regulatory investigations and mandatory corrective orders
Retention Periods
Test records must be stored securely and made available to the supervisory authority (Aufsichtsbehörde) and Berufsgenossenschaft on request. Recommended minimum retention periods:
- During the employment relationship – always retained
- After leaving employment – minimum 2 years per BetrSichV; 5 years recommended given accident liability windows
- After a workplace accident – must be preserved indefinitely until all legal proceedings are concluded
Can HV test records be stored digitally?
Yes. Digital storage is acceptable provided the records are tamper-evident, regularly backed up and can be printed on demand. Many workshops use digital service management systems (e.g. DMS/WIS platforms) with built-in HV documentation modules. The FHV specialist's electronic signature must comply with eIDAS requirements if a handwritten signature is not obtained.
Who is responsible for maintaining test records?
The employer (workshop owner or operator) is ultimately responsible for ensuring test records are completed, stored and accessible. In practice, the FHV specialist completes the record immediately after de-energisation – but the legal obligation rests with the employer, who must have systems in place to ensure compliance.