IEC Standards

Eng Sarath Wickramasuriya

The International Electrotechnical
Commission (IEC)
• IEC plays a crucial role in shaping global standards for electrical and
electronic systems. What are IEC Standards?
1. IEC standards are normative documents developed through consensus
procedures by experts from various countries. These standards cover a wide
range of aspects related to
• electrical safety, labeling, performance, test methods, and other guidelines for electrical
and electronic products.
2. An international standard is defined as a document that has been approved by
the IEC National Committee members of the responsible committee, following
the ISO/IEC Directives1.
3. These standards provide a common language and terminology for experts when
developing technology-related norms.
4. Importantly, adoption and use of IEC International Standards are entirely
voluntary, regardless of whether a country is an IEC Member or not.
Key Features of IEC Standards

• Consensus: IEC standards are developed through consensus, ensuring that all
views are considered, major issues are addressed, and opposition is overcome.
Approval requires a 2/3 majority of participating experts and IEC Members.
• Public Enquiry: Truly international standards can be submitted to public enquiry in
any IEC Member country. Public commenting allows experts outside the IEC to
contribute during the development process.
• Approval Criteria: An international standard is approved if a two-thirds majority of
P-members (technical committee or subcommittee) votes in favor, with no more
than 25% negative votes.
• Amendment: Amendments alter or add to existing IEC International Standards,
following consensus procedures.
• IEC’s Role in Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC):
• The IEC is the world-leading organization for electromagnetic compatibility (EMC),
ensuring the performance, reliability, efficiency, and safety of electrical and
electronic systems and devices2.
Examples of IEC Standards
1.IEC 60950-1: This standard pertains to safety requirements for information technology
equipment. It ensures that devices like computers, printers, and routers meet safety
criteria.
2.IEC 60068-2-1: This standard defines the cold temperature test for electrical and electronic
equipment. It assesses how devices perform under extreme cold conditions.
3.IEC 60529 (IP Code): The IP (Ingress Protection) Code specifies the degree of protection
provided by enclosures against the intrusion of solid objects (like dust) and liquids (such as
water).
4.IEC 61000-4-2: This standard addresses electrostatic discharge immunity. It ensures that
electronic devices can withstand static electricity discharges without malfunctioning.
5.IEC 60335-1: It covers safety requirements for household appliances. From toasters to
washing machines, this standard ensures their safe operation.
6.IEC 61850: This standard focuses on communication networks and systems for power
utility automation. It enables interoperability between devices in substations.
7.IEC 60601-1: It deals with safety requirements for medical electrical equipment. Medical
devices like X-ray machines and patient monitors adhere to this standard.
IEC 60335-1
• Scope: IEC 60335-1 deals with the safety of electrical appliances for household and similar
purposes. These appliances have a rated voltage of not more than 250 V for single-phase
appliances and 480 V for other appliances, including direct current (DC) supplied
appliances and battery-operated appliances. It covers a wide range of household devices,
from kitchen appliances to entertainment electronics 1.
• Safety Requirements: The standard addresses reasonably foreseeable hazards presented
by appliances encountered by all individuals. However, it does not specifically account for:
• Persons (including children) whose physical, sensory, or mental capabilities prevent them
from using the appliance safely without supervision or instruction.
• Children playing with the appliance.
• Appliances intended exclusively for industrial purposes.
• Appliances used in locations with special conditions (e.g., corrosive or explosive
atmospheres).
• Specific categories like audio/video equipment, medical electrical equipment, hand-held
tools, and information technology equipment 1.
IEC 60335-1
• Electric Kettles: These household appliances are used for boiling water and are subject to safety
requirements outlined in the standard.
• Toasters and Toasters Ovens: Appliances that toast bread or other food items are covered by IEC
60335-1. Safety aspects include electrical insulation, heating elements, and user accessibility.
• Microwave Ovens: These kitchen appliances use microwave radiation to cook or heat food. The
standard ensures their safe operation, including protection against leakage of microwave energy.
• Vacuum Cleaners: Household vacuum cleaners, whether corded or cordless, must comply with safety
regulations related to electrical components, mechanical parts, and user safety.
• Hair Dryers and Curling Irons: Personal care appliances like hair dryers and curling irons are subject
to safety requirements, including temperature control, insulation, and cord durability.
• Electric Fans: Ceiling fans, pedestal fans, and other electric fans are covered by the standard. Aspects
such as blade design, motor safety, and electrical insulation are considered.
• Coffee Makers and Espresso Machines: Appliances used for brewing coffee or espresso need to meet
safety criteria, including electrical insulation and temperature control.
• Electric Irons: Irons used for pressing clothes are regulated by IEC 60335-1. Safety features include
temperature control, cord design, and user accessibility.
IEC 60335-1 does not apply to: Appliances
exclusively for industrial purposes.
• Appliances used in locations with special conditions (e.g., corrosive or
explosive atmospheres).
• Audio/video equipment (covered by IEC 60065).
• Medical electrical equipment (covered by IEC 60601 series).
• Hand-held motor-operated electric tools (covered by IEC 60745 series).
• Information technology equipment (covered by IEC 60950-1).
• Transportable motor-operated electric tools (covered by IEC 61029
series).
• Audio/video, information, and communication technology equipment
(covered by IEC 62368-1).
• Electric motor-operated hand-held tools, transportable tools,
BS7671:2018- IET 18th Edition
• The 18th Edition, also known as BS 7671 or wiring regs, is a British Standard
that governs the installation of electrical wiring. These guidelines, set out by
the Institute of Engineering and Technology (IET), cover various aspects
related to electrical installations:
1.Installation of New Electrical Appliances: The 18th Edition provides rules
for installing new electrical equipment.
2.Maintenance of Existing Appliances: It also addresses the maintenance of
existing electrical installations, including any additions or alterations.
• The IET Wiring Regulations (BS 7671) is the national standard to which all
domestic and industrial wiring must conform. It is essential for those
involved in the design, installation, and maintenance of electric wiring in
buildings. The 18th Edition represents a significant update to this standard,
incorporating extensive changes across various areas of BS 7671123.
The 18th Edition of the IET Wiring Regulations (BS 7671) significantly
impacts electrical safety by introducing updated guidelines and
requirements for electrical installations
1. Enhanced Protection Against Electric Shock: The 18th Edition emphasizes measures to reduce the risk of electric shock.
It includes provisions for additional protection, such as RCDs (Residual Current Devices), which quickly disconnect the
power supply if a fault occurs.
2. Surge Protection: The new edition addresses surge protection, especially for sensitive electronic equipment. Surge
protective devices (SPDs) are recommended to safeguard against voltage spikes caused by lightning or other disturbances.
3. Fire Safety: The regulations now consider fire safety aspects related to electrical installations. Proper cable selection,
separation, and containment play a crucial role in preventing electrical fires.
4. Energy Efficiency: The 18th Edition encourages energy-efficient practices. Efficient lighting, load management, and use of
energy-saving devices contribute to safety by reducing the risk of overload.
5. Inspection and Testing: Regular inspection and testing of electrical installations are essential for safety. The 18th Edition
provides detailed guidance on periodic inspections, ensuring compliance and identifying potential hazards.
6. Protection Against Overcurrent: The regulations cover protection against overcurrent due to faults or overload. Properly
sized circuit breakers and fuses prevent excessive current flow.
7. Earthing and Bonding: Correct earthing and bonding are critical for safety. The 18th Edition clarifies requirements for
protective conductors, equipotential bonding, and earth electrodes.
8. Design and Verification: The design process now considers external influences, such as electromagnetic com
The 18th Edition of the IET Wiring Regulations (BS 7671) significantly
impacts electrical safety by introducing updated guidelines and
requirements for electrical installations
9. Special Locations: Specific locations (e.g., bathrooms,
swimming pools, agricultural premises) have unique safety
requirements. The 18th Edition provides tailored guidelines for
these areas.
10. Adoption of New Technologies: The regulations adapt to
technological advancements. They address electric vehicle
charging points, solar photovoltaic systems, and smart homes.