IEC TR 62368-2:2019

Overview

IEC TR 62368-2:2019 is an informative Technical Report published by the IEC that provides explanatory information and background guidance for the safety standard IEC 62368-1:2018. It is the third edition, updating the 2014 TR to reflect changes in the 2018 edition of IEC 62368-1. IEC TR 62368-2 does not add requirements; where a conflict exists, the mandatory requirements in IEC 62368-1 prevail. The report targets Audio/Video, Information and Communication Technology (AV/ICT) equipment and explains the intent and application of selected clauses to help users implement the hazard-based approach in IEC 62368-1.

Key Topics and Technical Guidance

The Technical Report focuses on subclauses that benefit from additional background or explanation and includes informative material on:

• Hazard-based safety engineering (HBSE) concepts and risk-reduction principles (illustrations and flowcharts).
• Electrically-caused injury: explanations of shock, touch-current, insulation, clearances and protective bonding.
• Electrically-caused fire: prevention, ignition likelihood reduction, and fire spread control; material flammability considerations.
• Hazardous substances: assessment and control measures for chemical risks.
• Mechanical hazards: safeguards against moving parts, structural strength and impact tests.
• Thermal burn and radiation risks: evaluation of hot surfaces, heating elements, optical and UV radiation.
• Test methods and examples: normal/abnormal/single-fault tests, test generators, and practical measurement guidance.
• Annex guidance: detailed informative annexes covering examples of equipment in scope, component considerations, battery protection, clearances/creepage measurement, fire resistance tests, mechanical strength tests, and instructions/markings.

Practical Applications - Who Uses This Standard

IEC TR 62368-2 is useful for:

• Product safety engineers and designers of audio/video and ICT equipment seeking interpretive guidance for IEC 62368-1.
• Test laboratories and compliance teams using the TR to understand test intent and examples.
• Regulatory authorities and certification bodies reviewing manufacturer documentation.
• Technical writers and training organizations preparing user instructions and safety documentation.
• Manufacturers implementing safeguards (electrical, thermal, mechanical, fire and chemical) and selecting appropriate test criteria.

Related Standards (if applicable)

• IEC 62368-1:2018 - normative standard for AV/ICT safety (requirements take precedence).
• References in the TR include other IEC/ISO guidance (e.g., IEC/TS 60479-1 on effects of current) and national/regional implementation documents where applicable.

Keywords: IEC TR 62368-2, IEC 62368-1, Audio/Video, Information and Communication Technology, safeguards, product safety, electrical safety, fire safety, battery protection.