June 2026

International Standards for Electrical Insulating Protection: Technical Overview of IEC and ASTM Standards

Our company, BOGUMA, supplies solutions according to the IEC standard, thereby facilitating the implementation of projects on both the domestic and global markets. Each standard defines different requirements for material composition and testing methodology of finished products. Understanding the differences between them ensures the correct design of safety in substations or industrial facilities.

Comparison of Electrical Insulating Matting for Substations: IEC 61111:2009 vs. ASTM D178:2019

When choosing floor insulation for substations, we encounter two dominant safety systems. The international IEC 61111:2009 focuses primarily on the functional properties of the matting during its use in operation. Conversely, the American ASTM D178 standard places great emphasis on the chemical composition of the material and its long-term stability. At our company, BOGUMA, we see that customers often choose a standard based on the target location or the internal safety protocols of the parent company.

For better orientation in their specifics, we present the key differences:

• Approach of the standards: Each of the standards defines different technical requirements for material composition and specific testing methodology for manufactured products.
• ASTM Typology: It distinguishes Type I, which is made from vulcanized natural or synthetic rubber and is not ozone-resistant, and Type II, which is designed for more demanding applications and features special resistance to ozone, flame, or oil.
• IEC Categorization: It uses additional category markings based on environmental resistance (e.g., oil or acids).
• Material thickness: ASTM often requires greater thickness for the same class of protection compared to IEC.

Electrical insulating matting certified according to the international IEC standard, as well as products meeting the ASTM standard, offer properties fully adapted to demanding industrial conditions. The correct choice of voltage class in combination with the appropriate resistance category (for example, to oils or acids) ensures long-term reliability of protective elements in a specific operating environment. At BOGUMA, we are convinced that both of these standards provide the maximum level of worker health protection when parameters are correctly specified.

The Upcoming IEC 61111:2026 Standard: Future and New Definitions of Dielectric Protection

The update of the IEC 61111:2026 standard brings new rules for periodic testing, modifies electrical test parameters, and tightens material criteria for the resistance of matting against chemical and environmental influences. In practice, this requires testing new production batches according to updated procedures and, on the operators' side, adjusting internal review plans and inspection intervals. BOGUMA is responding to these changes by optimizing its rubber compound recipes, ensuring the recertification of its matting portfolio in line with the new requirements, and updating the accompanying technical documentation for a smooth transition of clients to this new standard.

Mechanical and Chemical Requirements: Tensile Strength and Resistance

Mechanical resistance determines the insulation's ability to withstand physical stress in demanding industrial conditions. However, a direct numerical comparison of tensile strength between the international IEC 61111:2009 standard and the American ASTM D178 standard is not justified, as both standards utilize different testing procedures. The ASTM standard refers to the specific ASTM D412 methodology for this test, whose measurement procedures are not identical to IEC. BOGUMA supplies products that reliably meet the mechanical criteria of both these standards, thereby ensuring a long service life of the floor covering during daily use.

Chemical resistance extends worker protection in environments where aggressive substances are present. However, since the methodologies for chemical testing according to ASTM and IEC standards are not identical, each standard approaches this protection differently. The international IEC standard classifies matting into precise categories according to resistance to a specific substance, where Category A resists acids, Category H resists oils, and Category Z resists ozone. Conversely, the ASTM D178 standard integrates these properties directly into the material division into Type I and Type II, with the latter possessing special resistance to flame or oil. Regardless of the chosen standard, our experts will always help you choose the right product that will maintain its dielectric properties even in contact with technical fluids.

IEC 61112:2009 vs. ASTM D1048: Protection for Live Working

Flexible electrical insulating blankets play a crucial role when working in close proximity to live parts of electrical circuits. The international IEC 61112:2009 standard and the American ASTM D1048 standard define the requirements for these tools, which protect workers from accidental contact with live conductors. At BOGUMA, we perceive the main difference primarily in the methodological way both standards define the environmental resistance of protective equipment. The international IEC standard allows specifying the material's resistance to external influences through precise property categories, while the ASTM standard takes these environmental factors into account directly in the technical characteristics of individual material types.

The main differences in these standards include:

• Environmental categorization: The IEC standard specifies Category C for resistance to extremely low temperatures down to -40 °C.
• ASTM Material Types: The ASTM standard distinguishes Type I, which is not ozone-resistant, and Type II or Type III, which resist ozone.
• Construction Styles: ASTM defines Style A without reinforcement and Style B with integrated reinforcement for higher durability.
• Testing Time: For electrical type tests, the ASTM D1048 standard requires continuous application of voltage for 3 minutes. This time limit applies exclusively to the type testing of new products, while periodic (testing/re-certification) tests of protective equipment in operation are covered by a separate ASTM standard with a different methodology.

We supply electrical insulating blankets that fully meet the technical requirements of the international IEC 61112:2009 standard. The differences between them lie primarily in a different approach to technical specification, while the American ASTM standard also takes into account the specifics of a different manufacturing technology, specifically compression molding. The correct choice of appropriate protection thus directly affects overall safety during live-line work in the field and in industrial operations.

Physical Properties and Testing Parameters According to Standards

The physical properties of the material determine how an insulating blanket responds to mechanical stress and demanding conditions in the field. At BOGUMA, we place great emphasis on the balance between high flexibility and puncture protection. While the American ASTM D1048 standard requires a minimum tensile strength of up to 17.2 MPa for Type I, the international IEC 61112:2009 sets this limit at 12 MPa.

These differences in technical requirements are summarized in the following table:

Property (Requirement)	IEC 61112:2009 (Elastomer)	ASTM D1048 (Type I, Style A)
Tensile strength (min.)	12 MPa	17.2 MPa
Puncture resistance	> 45 N (Class 1-4)	18 kN/m
Elongation (min.)	300 %	500 %
Tension set (max.)	15 %	6.4 mm

The differing methodology for measuring puncture resistance is among the most important aspects when choosing the right product. BOGUMA points out that the IEC standard tests the force required to puncture with a needle in Newtons, whereas ASTM converts this force relative to the specimen thickness. We design our blankets to facilitate handling with gloves, while maintaining material integrity even in contact with the sharp edges of switchboards.

Color Coding and Marking According to Standards

Correct identification of the protection class directly in the field reduces the risk of a fatal mistake when selecting a tool. In our company, we ensure that the markings on our products exactly match the requirements of the relevant standards and make it easier for workers to check them before use. While the American ASTM system relies on specific label colors, the European IEC standard uses a combination of a color-coded pictogram and text categories.

The basic rules for visual distinction of classes are as follows:

• Class 0: Uses a red label color according to ASTM or a red symbol color according to IEC.
• Class 1: Requires white marking in both standard systems.
• Class 2: You can identify it by its yellow color.
• Class 3: It is assigned a green label or symbol color.
• Class 4: It features orange coding.
• Class 00: Specific to the IEC 61112:2009 standard, which assigns a beige color to this class.

In addition to colors, products must be marked with the manufacturer's name, standard number, and month or year of manufacture. The IEC standard also requires a double triangle pictogram. At BOGUMA, we ensure that this marking remains durable and legible throughout the lifetime of the insulation, which facilitates regular inspections and increases the safety of your employees.

Type I vs. Type II (ASTM) and Categories A, H, Z (IEC): What Does It Mean for Service Life?

The choice of material composition fundamentally affects how long electrical insulating protection retains its key properties in an aggressive environment. In terms of the international IEC 61112:2009 standard, we at BOGUMA recommend products with added ozone resistance (Category Z) for more demanding applications. It is ozone that causes dangerous cracks and tears in material under mechanical stress, which can lead to premature insulation failure.

The international IEC standard uses classification into categories of special properties, which allow precise adaptation of protective equipment to specific conditions and risks in the workplace. Category A ensures resistance to acids, while Category H protects the material from degradation caused by oils. If you are looking for comprehensive protection, Category R combines resistance to acids, oils, and ozone all at once. In our company, we emphasize to everyone that the correct choice between these specifications prevents hardening or changes in rubber properties, thereby significantly extending the replacement cycle of your protective equipment.

[H2] Inspection, Maintenance, and Retesting Period: IEC vs. ASTM

Regular inspection of electrical insulating equipment represents a fundamental pillar of safety in every high-voltage workplace. At BOGUMA, we make sure that our clients understand the maintenance requirements according to international and American standards. A thorough visual inspection before each use is a mandatory basis and a matter of course for both of these standards. Regarding periodic inspections and electrical testing in operation, the IEC 61111:2009 and IEC 61112:2009 standards recommend performing them at least every 12 months, which is in line with common practice when applying ASTM standards as well.

Key aspects of maintenance and deadlines include:

• Visual inspection: Before each use, you must inspect both sides of the product for the presence of cracks, cuts, or punctures.
• Periodic tests: While an electrical proof voltage test is recommended every 12 months for insulating blankets, for matting, the IEC standard prescribes primarily a thorough visual inspection. However, periodic electrical testing of both products within this period may be strictly required by national occupational health and safety (OSH) regulations.
• Exception for low classes: For classes 00 and 0 according to the IEC standard, a thorough visual inspection is sufficient to verify compliance.
• Storage conditions: Store products vertically without mechanical deformation, ideally at a temperature between 10 °C and 21 °C.
• Material cleaning: In case of contamination, use soapy water and then dry the product thoroughly at a temperature up to 65 °C.

BOGUMA warns that any suspicion of damage or a failed inspection test requires the immediate removal of the product from service. To facilitate your warehouse management, we recommend marking the date of the next inspection directly on the edge of the material in such a way that it does not affect its dielectric properties. Proper maintenance not only extends the life of your investments but, above all, protects the health of your workers in critical situations.

Standards for the Global Market: When Do You Need ASTM and When IEC?

Choosing the right certification depends primarily on the geographical location of the project. While projects in North America require compliance with ASTM standards, European countries and states under the influence of IEC require compliance with IEC 61111:2009 and IEC 61112:2009 standards. BOGUMA facilitates strategic decision-making in the European market by supplying electrical insulating products certified exclusively according to these strict international IEC standards.

The following table will help you determine the appropriate standard for your business:

Market / Project Type	Preferred Standard	Type of Protective Equipment
European Union and Slovakia	IEC 61111 / 61112	Matting and blankets
USA, Canada, Mexico	ASTM D178 / D1048	Matting and blankets
Oil rigs and mines (US standard)	ASTM D178 / D1048	Matting and blankets
Export to third countries (general)	IEC 61111 / 61112	Matting and blankets

In our company, BOGUMA, we emphasize that correct certification facilitates acceptance procedures during occupational safety audits. If your company implements technological units for foreign partners, you must verify in advance which standards your client accepts. By choosing the right standard from our portfolio, you avoid unnecessary costs for additional replacement of unapproved equipment.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main difference between Class 0 in the IEC and ASTM standard?

Both classes allow working up to 1,000 V AC. The difference can be found in thickness; while IEC 61111:2009 allows a maximum thickness of 6 mm for matting, ASTM D178 sets Class 0 with a thickness of 3.2 mm with a tolerance of 0.8 mm.

Can I use an ASTM Type I insulating blanket in an ozone-prone environment?

No, American Type I is not ozone-resistant. At BOGUMA, we do not supply products according to the ASTM D1048 standard (Type I, II, or III) – our assortment strictly follows the international standard IEC 6112. If you are looking for a safe solution for your project in an ozone-prone environment, you will find Category Z electrical insulating blankets in our offer. These products successfully resist the effects of ozone and reliably prevent the formation of dangerous cracks under mechanical stress.

What do the letters A, H, and Z mean for matting according to the IEC standard?

These categories according to IEC 61111:2009 indicate special material properties: A confirms resistance to acids, H resistance to oil, and Z resistance to ozone.

Do American standards require different marking colors than European ones?

Both standards generally agree on the basic logic of color coding to distinguish individual classes. According to the international IEC standard, the use of a double triangle pictogram on electrical insulating protection is mandatory. The standard defines this symbol as a binding element for live working, while strictly determining its color coding for individual classes as well. Thanks to this mandatory color distinction, it is possible to immediately and safely verify the voltage resistance of the product.

Which standard is stricter on tensile strength?

This difference cannot be defined this way, as IEC and ASTM standards utilize different testing methodologies and measurement procedures. The resulting numerical values are therefore directly incomparable, and it cannot be unambiguously determined which of the regulations sets stricter criteria.

What is Category C in European standards?

Category C according to IEC 61112:2009 and IEC 61111:2009 designates products intended for extremely low temperatures. These tools successfully pass the bend test even at a temperature of -40 °C.

Can I walk on electrical insulating blankets?

Under no circumstances. Electrical insulating blankets serve to cover live parts; they are not designed as floor coverings and are not intended to be walked on.

How should I properly store these protective tools?

Ideally, store the products vertically and without creases. At BOGUMA, we recommend protecting them from direct sunlight and heat sources, while the temperature should not exceed 35 °C.