FNN rules are part of the VDE Specifications Code of Safety Standards. Electro-technical standards are additionally identified and appropriately classified as VDE specifications if they contain regulations for the prevention of dangers to humans, animals and property, and if these dangers are due to specific sources (explicitly agreed upon between DIN and VDE), or if the standards are within the scope of legal standards intended to avert such dangers.

The acknowledged rules of standardization offer a maximum of democratic principles in the preparation of standards in all phases of the preparation process. From the proposal of a standard to the adoption of a standard, the public has the opportunity to learn about standardization work.

For the development of FNN rules particular attention is drawn to the following facts:

• Prior to finalization, the proposed version of a standard shall be submitted to the public for comment. This is generally done by publication of a draft standard.
• The committees are staffed according to the principle that all affected groups be adequately represented.

Results of the VDE Specifications Code of Safety Standards

The application of standards is generally voluntary. However, application may be mandatory on the basis of legal or administrative requirements, and on the basis of contracts or for other legal reasons. The application of standards does not release anyone from the responsibility for their actions. In this respect, everyone acts at their own risk.

In the case of safety provisions of VDE standards, there is a factual presumption of law that the standards are drawn up in a proper and workmanlike manner, i.e. that they are "acknowledged rules of technology" (see also Article 49 of the German Energy Industry Act).

The German Energy Industry Act requires that installations in the energy sector are built and operated so as to be safe in technical terms. In addition to legal requirements, the acknowledged rules of technology have to be observed. This requirement is assumed to be satisfied when the VDE Specifications Code of Safety Standards is adhered to.