As Martin noted in his 'El Cheapo Multimeter Review', there is a great need for a safe multimeter. The markings on the meter can give an indication of the quality and safety of the meter but there is a little more to the story. Here's my understanding of the subject. Correct me if I'm wrong.
CE MarkCE mark is not always considered an indicator of quality. It's just a statement that the product complies with the essential requirements of the European law.
Obviously rigorously testing your products takes time, money, dedicated staff and specialized equipment. Imagine how you apply lightning type discharges to products under test in a safe and consistent manner.
Note that CE marking can be "Self-certified" by the manufacturer. As CE marking is a legal requirement for selling to the European Market, CE marking is often misused. We have tested products made in India and found that the Declaration of Conformity document was "inconsistent with the product's performance". Wiki explains misuse found in Chinese products:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/CE_markThis summary of the CE Low Voltage Directive from Europe (includes 1000V) is interesting reading:
http://www.conformance.co.uk/directives/ce_lvd.phpOther certification marksIn addition to the CE Mark, many process control products have to be agency tested and marked for other major geographical and industry markets:
Australia & New Zealand (C-TICK)
Canada (CSA 22.2 No. 142, cUL 508)
China (CCC)
Russia (GOST R)
Merchant Navy, Italian Navy etc.
Lloyds Registry
Factory Mutual [FM Global] (FM)
USA (Underwriters Laboratories - UL, cUL 1604 Class 1 Division 2)
Explosive atmosphere. (ATEX)
There's more!In addition these European directives are followed in quality products
RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) legislation
WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment) legislation.
So in general, when buying a name brand meter like Fluke, we're paying a bit more but that buys quality, safety and peace of mind.