What is IEC 60598-2-720:2013?

The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) is a global organization that sets international standards for electrical and electronic technologies. One of its important standards is the IEC 60598-2-720:2013, which specifically deals with the safety requirements of luminaires for emergency lighting. In this article, we will delve into the technical aspects of this standard.

Scope of IEC 60598-2-720:2013

The scope of IEC 60598-2-720:2013 covers self-contained emergency luminaires and voltage-based automatic testing devices. This standard is applicable to both maintained and non-maintained emergency lighting systems. It provides guidance on the design, construction, and performance of these luminaires to ensure their safe operation during an emergency situation.

Technical Requirements

IEC 60598-2-720:2013 outlines several technical requirements that luminaires must meet to comply with the standard. First, it specifies the minimum duration for which the emergency lighting should operate, as well as the maximum duration for recharging the batteries. The standard also defines the levels of illuminance that the luminaires should provide during an emergency and the required light output distribution patterns.

In addition, the standard mandates that emergency luminaires should be equipped with a test system to periodically verify their proper functioning. This system should automatically simulate power failure and monitor the performance of the luminaires. The frequency and duration of these tests are also specified in the standard.

Compliance and Certification

Compliance with IEC 60598-2-720:2013 is crucial for manufacturers and suppliers of emergency luminaires. To demonstrate compliance, luminaires need to undergo a series of tests and assessments conducted by accredited testing laboratories. These tests verify that the luminaires meet all the technical requirements specified by the standard.

Once a luminaire successfully meets all the necessary requirements, it can be certified as compliant with IEC 60598-2-720:2013. This certification provides assurance to customers and end-users that the product is safe and reliable for use in emergency situations. It also helps manufacturers gain a competitive edge in the market by demonstrating their commitment to quality and safety.

Conclusion

IEC 60598-2-720:2013 plays a vital role in ensuring the safety and reliability of emergency luminaires. By defining rigorous technical requirements and providing guidelines for compliance, this standard helps protect lives and property during critical situations. Manufacturers, suppliers, and end-users should familiarize themselves with this standard to ensure the proper design, construction, and performance of emergency lighting systems.