IEC 60598-2-2:2023

Overview

IEC 60598-2-2:2023 - fourth edition - is the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) particular standard for recessed luminaires and recessed air‑handling luminaires. It covers luminaires incorporating electric light sources for supply voltages up to 1 000 V, and recessed fixtures designed to be used with a ventilation duct or ventilated plenum (forced ventilation). This 2023 edition is a technical revision that incorporates requirements previously in IEC 60598‑1 (recessed-specific clauses) and IEC 60598‑2‑19 (air‑handling luminaires).

Key topics and requirements

• Scope and classification: Defines which recessed and air‑handling luminaires are covered and references the general rules in IEC 60598‑1.
• Marking and symbols: Requires durable, visible markings during installation - including IP ratings and mandatory symbols (e.g., not for mounting on normally flammable surfaces or not for covering with thermal insulation). Minimum symbol size is specified (25 mm).
• Construction and safety: Rules for mechanical construction, creepage distances, clearances, provision for earthing, terminals, and wiring to ensure safe installation and operation.
• Wiring and cables: Flexible connection cables supplied must meet equivalent properties to IEC 60227 or IEC 60245 and withstand the maximum operating temperatures of the luminaire.
• Protection and tests: Requirements for protection against electric shock, insulation resistance, dielectric strength, resistance to heat/fire/tracking, and resistance to dust and moisture (IP ratings).
• Thermal and endurance tests: Thermal routines and endurance tests are specified, including procedures in Annex B (recessed thermal test methods) and guidance on measuring ambient temperature in installations (Annex A).
• Air‑handling specifics: Special clauses for luminaires designed to handle forced ventilation (plenum use), with explanatory guidance on the significance of the t‑rating for air‑handling luminaires (Annex C).
• Standards integration: Tests in this part are to be carried out in the order listed and used together with the latest IEC 60598‑1.

Applications and who uses this standard

• Luminaire manufacturers - design, testing and documentation of recessed and plenum-compatible luminaires to meet international safety and performance requirements.
• Test laboratories and certification bodies - conformity assessment and type testing for market access.
• Lighting specifiers, architects and electrical contractors - selecting appropriate recessed lighting for ceilings, insulated ceilings, and ventilation plenums.
• HVAC and building engineers - integration of air‑handling luminaires with ventilation systems and plenum safety compliance.
• Regulators and procurement teams - referencing an internationally accepted standard for product compliance and building codes.

Related standards

• IEC 60598‑1 (Luminaires - General requirements and tests)
• IEC 60598 series (other particular parts)
• IEC 60227, IEC 60245 (cable standards)
• Formerly related: IEC 60598‑2‑19 (air‑handling luminaires) - now incorporated into this Part 2‑2

Keywords: IEC 60598-2-2:2023, recessed luminaires standard, recessed lighting safety, air-handling luminaires, plenum luminaires, IEC luminaires.