The generation, transmission and distribution of electrical energy provide one of the most challenging environments in which to undertake an engineering career. Every project demands safety, performance and an acute commercial awareness. The design and provision of low-voltage switchgear and controlgear assemblies are no exception, requiring a detailed understanding of industrial power systems, switching and protective devices and electro-technical knowledge required to provide bespoke designs. The role of the electrical engineer whose remit is to design and manage the manufacture and supply of low-voltage assemblies, requires the culmination of academic qualification and years of experience. Underlining the engineering ability to fulfil these requirements is the knowledge and application of appropriate standards and legislation. The last five decades have seen a marked progression in the development and publication of standards, not least those in the electrical industry and a shift from the UK-centric approach, towards a more collaborative model, channelling input through national standards bodies such as BSI, onto the platform of the IEC (International Electro-technical Committee). This approach has now brought about the latest series of low-voltage assembly standards IEC EN 61439 which now requires a comprehensive approach to demonstrating compliance through a concept of rigorous verification.