IEC 60335-2-105:2026

Overview

IEC 60335-2-105:2026 is an international safety standard published by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). It specifies the particular safety requirements for multifunctional shower cabinets and separate multifunctional shower units that are electrically powered and intended for household and similar environments. Applicable to devices with a rated voltage not exceeding 250 V for single-phase and 480 V for other appliances (including DC supply), this standard ensures safety for users in residential settings as well as public spaces, such as hotels and fitness centers.

This third edition introduces key technical revisions, such as alignment with IEC 60335-1:2020, conversion of some notes to normative text, and updated surface temperature requirements. The standard builds upon the general requirements of IEC 60335-1 for electrical household appliances.

Key Topics

IEC 60335-2-105:2026 addresses several significant safety topics relevant to electrical shower cabinets and units, including:

• Electrical Safety: Protection against electric shock, insulation requirements, and safe supply connections
• Mechanical Safety: Assessment of mechanical strength, stability, and protection against access to live parts
• Thermal Performance: Monitoring of surface temperature limits for accessible surfaces to avoid burns
• Moisture Resistance: Tests to ensure enclosure integrity against water ingress
• Endurance: Evaluation of appliance durability during intended operation and under abnormal conditions
• Marking and Instructions: Requirements for clear user guidance, safety instructions, and correct appliance identification
• Battery Operations: Specific considerations for battery-powered features
• Abnormal Operation: Measures to minimize risks during foreseeable misuse or fault conditions

IEC 60335-2-105:2026 also considers electromagnetic phenomena that may affect safe operation and references relevant standards for lighting (IEC 60598) and audio/video or IT equipment (IEC 62368) if these functions are integrated.

Applications

This standard applies to various electric multifunctional shower enclosures and units found in:

• Residential Homes: Providing guidance for safe installation and operation by consumers
• Public Facilities: Ensuring safety in environments where laypersons may use appliances, such as:
  • Hotels
  • Fitness centers
  • Dormitories
  • Spa facilities

Manufacturers, testing laboratories, and regulators rely on IEC 60335-2-105 to verify that products meet international safety criteria before market release. The standard also informs procurement and facility managers about the requirements appliances should meet for safe public use.

Products not covered include instantaneous water heaters, shower-boost pumps, medical appliances, and appliances designed for special atmospheres (e.g., corrosive or explosive), which fall under different standards.

Related Standards

IEC 60335-2-105:2026 is part of the broader IEC 60335 series on safety for household and similar electrical appliances. Relevant related standards and references include:

• IEC 60335-1: General requirements for household and similar electrical appliances (the foundational standard for Part 2-105)
• IEC 60335-2-35: Particular requirements for instantaneous water heaters
• IEC 60335-2-41: Particular requirements for pumps
• IEC 60598 Series: Luminaires (applicable when shower units include built-in lighting)
• IEC 62368 Series: Audio/video, information, and communication technology equipment
• National regulations related to water supply, health, and mechanical strength may also apply, especially regarding requirements beyond electrical safety.

By adhering to IEC 60335-2-105:2026, manufacturers and users of electric multifunctional shower cabinets help ensure a high level of safety, supporting international market access and user protection.