What is UL 60335-2-68?

UL 60335-2-68 is a technical standard that focuses on the safety requirements for electrical appliances intended to be used in humid environments, such as bathrooms and swimming pool areas. The standard covers various types of electrical appliances, including heating elements, ventilation fans, and lighting fixtures.

Scope and Objectives

The primary objective of UL 60335-2-68 is to ensure the safety of electrical appliances in humid environments, where there is an increased risk of electric shock and fire hazards due to the presence of water and moisture. The standard establishes specific safety requirements that manufacturers must meet to ensure their products are safe for use in these environments.

The scope of UL 60335-2-68 includes electrical appliances that are specifically designed and marketed for use in humid environments. This includes appliances such as hair dryers, electric shavers, sauna heaters, and spa controls. The standard does not apply to appliances that are primarily designed for outdoor use or appliances that are considered consumer electronic devices.

Key Safety Requirements

UL 60335-2-68 specifies several important safety requirements that electrical appliances must meet:

The appliance must be constructed to prevent the ingress of water and moisture, ensuring that the internal electrical components are protected.

The appliance must incorporate additional insulation and safeguards to reduce the risk of electric shock in wet conditions.

All live parts of the appliance must be adequately insulated and isolated from accessible conductive parts to prevent accidental contact.

The appliance must have effective means to control the temperature to prevent overheating and potential fire hazards.

Compliance and Testing

Manufacturers must ensure that their electrical appliances comply with the safety requirements outlined in UL 60335-2-68 before placing them on the market. Compliance can be demonstrated through various means, including self-declaration or third-party testing and certification. Third-party testing is often preferred as it provides independent verification of a product's safety.

Testing usually involves subjecting the appliance to various environmental conditions, including exposure to water and humidity, to evaluate its performance and safety. The appliance may also be tested for electric shock resistance, temperature control, and insulation properties.

Overall, UL 60335-2-68 plays a vital role in ensuring the safety of electrical appliances in humid environments. By adhering to the standard's requirements, manufacturers can provide consumers with peace of mind and confidence in using their products in wet areas without compromising safety standards.