What is BS EN 15622:2013?

BS EN 15622:2013 is a technical standard that specifies the requirements and testing methods for safety of household and similar electrical appliances. This standard is applicable to a wide range of appliances, including but not limited to washing machines, refrigerators, dishwashers, and cooking appliances.

Scope and Objective

The scope of BS EN 15622:2013 covers both the safety aspects of the appliance as well as its construction and performance. The objective is to ensure that these appliances do not pose any danger to the consumer or cause damage to property when used as intended or in a reasonably foreseeable manner.

The standard outlines specific requirements related to various aspects such as mechanical strength, protection against electric shock, stability, temperature limitations, insulation, and accessibility. It also provides guidelines for testing methods to verify compliance with these requirements.

Key Requirements

One of the key requirements specified in BS EN 15622:2013 is the provision of adequate protection against electric shock. The standard defines the necessary insulation, clearance, and creepage distances to prevent electrical accidents. It also outlines specific tests that should be conducted to verify this protection.

The standard also addresses the issue of stability, particularly for appliances that are subject to movement or vibration during use. It specifies the minimum requirements for stability to ensure that the appliance does not tip over or fall during operation, which could result in injury or damage.

Additionally, BS EN 15622:2013 sets requirements for temperature limitations, ensuring that the surface temperatures of the appliance (such as oven doors or stoveplates) do not reach potentially hazardous levels. This prevents accidental burns or fires due to excessive heat exposure.

Conclusion

BS EN 15622:2013 is an important technical standard that sets out the safety requirements for household and similar electrical appliances. Compliance with this standard ensures that these appliances are built and tested to minimize the risks of electric shock, instability, and excessive heat. By adhering to the specifications outlined in BS EN 15622:2013, manufacturers can provide consumers with appliances that are safe to use and have undergone rigorous testing to guarantee their performance and reliability.