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AZ/NZS 3001.2:2022 Standards Update
AZ/NZS 3001.2:2022 Standards Update
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PREFACE
The new AS/NZS 3001:2:2022 came into effect on the 20th of November 2023. All new recreational vehicles that the new standards apply to need to be compliant from this date. The major impact for users of Lithium batteries and associated electrical systems is the new rules about where lithium batteries can be installed within vehicles and transportable structures. Unfortunately, as is often the case with the release of major standards, there has been debate and conjecture about the standards, meaning some inaccurate misinterpretations have been widely spread. Amptron has been liaising with regulatory bodies across different states in Australia since the draft standards were released. We believe we are now in the position to advise our partners and customers, and we have summarised our take on the standards below.
SCOPE OF STANDARDS DIAGRAM:
The scope diagram below gives the best overview of what recreational and not recreational vehicles the new standards apply to:
- (a) Caravans
- (b) Camper vans
- (c) Motor homes
- (d) Camper trailers
- (e) Pop top caravans
- (f) Tent trailers
- (g) Fifth wheel caravans
- (h) Slide on campers
- (i) Converted buses or trailers
OUR TAKE ON INCLUDED RECREATIONAL VEHICLES:
We have used the following common vehicle examples to further explain what needs to comply with the standard.
Caravan, camper trailer or similar with a separate axle that is towed behind a vehicle. All installations must comply with AS/NZS 3001.2:2022.
Motorhome based on Mercedes Sprinter, Fiat Ducatto or similar with internal habitable space/ bedding/ bunks. All installations must comply with AS/NZS 3001.2:2022.
Landcruiser ‘Troopy’ or modified 4WD where ‘habitable’ space has been created within the vehicle for sleeping and / or other activities. Vehicle also has an AC input ‘inlet plug’ for power supply/ battery charging. All installations must comply with AS/NZS 3001.2:2022.
NOTABLE EXCEPTIONS:
4×4 or Australian Road Compliant vehicle which has on board LV outlet, without the provision for connecting to an external supply. For example a dual cab ute with a canopy install, however all ‘habitable space’ is external to the vehicle. Does not need to comply with AS/NZS 3001.2:2022.
Boats – not applicable to this standard.
ALTERATIONS AND REPAIRS
How the new standard deals with alterations and repairs to in-scope vehicles will have a large impact on the industry. See below the phrases from the standards below which relates to alteration and repair requirements:
"1.5.1 Alterations
1.5.1.1 General
Alterations to electrical installations in connectable electrical installations shall comply with AS/NZS 3000, except as varied herein, and with the additional requirements of this Standard.
Alterations to connectable electrical installations shall not cause any portion of the original electrical installation, or electrical equipment connected thereto, to –
(a) carry currents or sustain voltages in excess of those permitted by this Standard; or
(b) be used in any manner that is not in accordance with this Standard."
1.5.2 Repairs
1.5.2.1 General
Repairs to existing electrical installations in connectable electrical installations or parts thereof may be effected using methods, fixtures and fittings that were acceptable when that part of the electrical installation was originally installed or with methods, fixtures and fittings currently available as a direct replacement, provided that the methods satisfy the fundamental safety principles of AS/NZS 3000.