If a designer reads the PDF and assumes their device will be in a clean lab (Degree 1), they can place circuit traces closer together. But if that device is later used in a sawmill (Degree 3), the conductive dust could bridge those traces, causing a short circuit. The standard forces engineers to predict the future environment of their device—or play it safe and design for the worst-case scenario.
The IEC 61010-1 standard PDF can be obtained from various sources, including: iec 61010-1 standard pdf
For organizations that need many standards, consider subscription platforms: If a designer reads the PDF and assumes