The basic requirements of interrupter switches used indoors, outdoors, and in enclosures are covered. This standard does not apply to load-break separable insulated connectors.

This standard applies to switching devices, interrupters, and interrupter switches (as defined in IEEE Std C37.100-1992) for alternating current, rated above 1000 volts and used indoors, outdoors, or in enclosures for which a switching rating is to be assigned. While this standard covers the basic requirements of interrupter switches used indoors, outdoors, and in enclosures, other standards such as IEEE Std C37.20.2-1993, IEEE Std C37.20.3-1987, IEEE Std C37.20.4-1996, IEEE Std C37.71-1984, and IEEE Std PC37.73 (D.9, 1997) also contain requirements for switches used in enclosures. This standard does not apply to load-break separable insulated connectors, which are covered by IEEE Std 386-1995. This standard also does not apply to circuit-breakers, circuit-switchers, or reclosers.

The purpose of this standard is to provide a basic standard for switches as defined in 3.5. The broad definition of a switch, given in 3.5, encompasses devices that meet the strict definition of an interrupter switch in IEEE Std C37.100-1992, and also encompass devices that utilize insulating media other than air.