EN 60947-1 specifies general rules and requirements for low-voltage switchgear and controlgear. It covers the design, construction, and performance of these devices, which are used for switching, protecting, and controlling electrical circuits and equipment in various applications. The standard outlines general safety requirements, testing procedures, and performance criteria to ensure that switchgear and controlgear operate safely and effectively in electrical installations. It serves as a foundational document for other standards within the EN 60947 series, which address specific types of switchgear and controlgear.