Overview
IEC 60335-2-27:2009 is an international safety standard published by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). It specifies the particular safety requirements for household and similar electrical appliances that expose the skin to ultraviolet (UV) or infrared (IR) radiation. The standard applies to appliances with emitters intended for general household use, as well as those used in commercial settings such as tanning salons and beauty parlours, with rated voltages up to 250 V for single-phase and 480 V for other appliances.
This standard is designed to address both common and unique hazards associated with skin exposure devices, promoting safety for users and reducing the risks of injury from electrical, thermal, mechanical, fire, or radiation-related hazards.
Key Topics
- Scope and Applicability: Encompasses household and commercial UV/IR appliances, including tanning beds, lamps, and similar devices, excluding medical equipment and those intended for use in hazardous environments such as those with explosive atmospheres.
- Radiation Safety: Outlines requirements for safe emission of UV and IR radiation, including measurement and limits for effective irradiance, type of emitters, and the use of UV filters.
- Markings and Instructions: Specifies clear warnings and user instructions to highlight potential risks, such as eye and skin injury, and how to safely operate and maintain the appliance.
- Component Identification: Requires labeling of lamp types and equivalency codes, along with guidance on replacement and maintenance of emitters and filters.
- Testing Procedures: Details testing for electrical, mechanical, and thermal safety, including operational tests, endurance, abnormal use scenarios, and protection against access to live parts.
- User Precautions: Instructs on user restrictions (e.g., not for use by children or individuals with certain skin conditions), exposure scheduling, and the importance of protective goggles.
- Transition Guidelines: Recommends national implementation between 12-36 months after publication to allow a suitable transition period for manufacturers and testing organizations.
Applications
IEC 60335-2-27:2009 applies to a wide range of UV and IR appliances, supporting both safety and regulatory compliance in diverse environments:
- Household UV/IR Skin Exposure Devices: Ensures safer operation of devices like home tanning beds or facial units by requiring clear user instructions, exposure limits, and child safety measures.
- Commercial Tanning and Beauty Equipment: Provides requirements for appliances used in tanning salons, spas, and beauty parlours, essential for consumer protection, staff training, and compliance with local health regulations.
- Appliance Manufacturing and Testing: Acts as a benchmark for product designers, manufacturers, and testing laboratories to demonstrate conformity with international safety expectations.
- Regulatory Authorities and Inspectors: Assists government and regulatory agencies in setting inspection criteria and granting approvals or certifications for UV and IR appliances.
By harmonizing safety expectations, this standard supports global trade and helps reduce the risks associated with improper use of skin exposure devices.
Related Standards
- IEC 60335-1:2013 - General requirements for the safety of household and similar electrical appliances. IEC 60335-2-27 is intended to be read in conjunction with this base standard.
- IEC 61228 - Provides details on the fluorescent UV lamp equivalency codes referenced for labeling and maintenance.
- IEC 60598-1 - Requirements for luminaires, referenced when addressing certain mechanical and electrical aspects relevant to UV emitters.
- ISO 3864-1 - Symbol standards referenced for safety labeling on appliances.
- Regional Regulations - National and regional standards may set additional safety requirements, such as EN 60335-2-27 (Europe), AS/NZS 60335.2.27 (Australia/New Zealand), and 21 CFR 1040.20 (USA) for irradiance limits.
IEC 60335-2-27:2009 is key for ensuring electrical appliance safety in the context of skin exposure to UV and IR radiation. Following its requirements protects users, supports regulatory compliance, and helps manufacturers meet global expectations for safe electrical appliances.
