Authorization for operations on electric vehicles (Standard NF C 18-550): Growing needs...
- bleu-formation
- Oct 1
- 3 min read
NF C 18-550 electrical qualification in auto workshop:
Why waiting is no longer an option...
Everywhere, workshops and repair networks are seeing more and more electric and hybrid vehicles arriving.
As of January 1, 2025, France has 39.7 million cars in circulation, 2.9% of which are electric, or around 1.15 million EVs which will, sooner or later, pass through our garages and repair shops.
This movement is sustainable, it is growing
and exposes your teams to specific risks that must be managed without delay.
What the law says (and what it imposes on us):
- Since the decree of July 5, 2024, standard NF C 18-550 (August 2015) is expressly referenced by the Labor Code for operations on vehicles and machines equipped with an on-board electrical energy source.
In other words, it is not an option: it is the framework recommended by the regulations. ( legifrance.gouv.fr )
- Authorization is also required for non-electrical operations near live elements (cleaning, bodywork, preparation, etc.). ( inrs.fr )
Key authorization levels for automobiles and all electric vehicles. ( VEEE )
On vehicles/machines, the indices are supplemented by the letter “L”. Here are the main titles to consider depending on your activities:
B1L / B2L: Executor and Manager of electrical work on an on-board electrical energy (EEE) vehicle/machine. ( inrs.fr )
BRL: Intervention manager (replacement, troubleshooting, simple measures) on EV/VH.
B2XL: Specific operations related to trades (In particular “battery” operations, expertise, breakdown-towing, deconstruction.)
BCL: Consignment officer (securing the vehicle before intervention).
B0L: Non-electrical operations in the vicinity of or near an EV (preparers, bodywork specialists, washers, etc.). ( france.apave.com )
The INRS reminds us that, for vehicles and machinery, the reference is NF C 18-550 and that the symbols are supplemented by “L”. ( inrs.fr )
Why enable now, even if your EV customer base “isn’t there yet”?
majority”?
Safety of people: High AC and DC voltage, very high energy stored in the traction battery, risks of electrocution and electric arc, thermal reaction of the batteries—an incident can occur during an operation that is apparently “simple”. ( inrs.fr )
Regulatory and insurance compliance : In the event of an accident, the lack of authorization may incur the employer's liability and weaken insurance coverage. ( legifrance.gouv.fr )
Business Continuity : Internally controlled logging, isolation and testing procedures reduce unplanned downtime and equipment damage.
Image and business: Fleets and individuals expect “VE-ready” workshops.
Training early means capturing markets (maintenance, expertise, towing, second life and battery deconstruction).
Your 5-step action plan
Map your operations
Who gets what, where and when?
Separate electrical order (HV diagnosis, converter replacement, battery pack, VAT, etc.) and non-electrical order (removal/replacement of components, washing, bodywork). Associate each position with the target titles: B0L, B1L/B2L, BRL, B2XL, BCL. ( inrs.fr )
Train then empower
Choose a competent VE/VH organization : Training (Theory + practice); assessment; then the employer issues the authorization certificate.
Please note: For live work, training is required from specially approved organizations. ( legifrance.gouv.fr )
Equip and equip
Suitable PPE/EPC (insulating gloves, face shield, insulating mat, VAT, markings), insulated tools, written procedures and operating methods (lockout/unlockout, management of a damaged vehicle, battery fire risk, etc.).
Organize the consignment
Designate BCLs, formalize the steps, voltage absence checks and labeling, and impose a clear site release before returning to service. ( safeteam.fr )
Maintain skills
Refresher training recommended every 3 years (sooner if practice is rare), feedback, exercises and role-playing. Update titles after changing positions/technology.
In conclusion
Waiting for “the market to develop further” no longer makes sense: The EV fleet is already very real and regulations require you to authorize anyone exposed, whether they carry out electrical operations or not.
Upgrading to NF C 18-550 means protecting your teams, securing your operations and preparing for your growth in electromobility .
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