prEN IEC 61008-2-1:2026/prAA:2026

• Abstract:

  IEC 61008-1:2024, Clause 1 is applicable except for the first paragraph, which is replaced by the first paragraph below, and the last paragraph, which is replaced by the second paragraph below: This part of IEC 61008 applies to residual current operated circuit-breakers, without integral overcurrent protection, for household and similar uses (hereafter referred to as RCCBs), classified according to IEC 61008-1:2024, 4.1.1. RCCBs according to this document are intended for voltages not exceeding 440 V AC with frequencies of 50 Hz, 60 Hz or 50/60 Hz and currents not exceeding 125 A, intended principally for protection against shock hazard. This document applies in conjunction with IEC 61008-1:2024. It specifies requirements, tests and test sequences to verify compliance and is used for certification purposes.

• Status: Not Published
• Publication Date: 31-Jan-2027
• ICS: 29.120.50 - Fuses and other overcurrent protection devices
• Technical Committee: CLC/TC 23E - Circuit breakers and similar devices for household and similar applications
• Drafting Committee: CLC/TC 23E/WG 01 - Maintenance of TC23E standards
• Current Stage: 4599 - Dispatch of FV draft to CMC - Finalization for Vote
• Start Date: 03-Aug-2026
• Due Date: 12-Feb-2027
• Completion Date: 03-Aug-2026
• Ref Project: oSIST prEN IEC 61008-2-1:2026/oprAA:2026 - Residual current operated circuit-breakers without integral overcurrent protection for household and similar uses (RCCBs) - Part 2-1: RCCBs according to classification 4.1.1

• Amends: prEN IEC 61008-2-1:2026 - Residual current operated circuit-breakers without integral overcurrent protection for household and similar uses (RCCBs) - Part 2-1: RCCBs according to classification 4.1.1
• Effective Date: 22-Jul-2025

Overview

prEN IEC 61008-2-1:2026/prAA:2026 is a draft European standard developed by the CLC for residual current operated circuit-breakers without integral overcurrent protection (RCCBs) intended for household and similar uses. This document specifically addresses RCCBs according to classification 4.1.1 of IEC 61008-1:2024. The standard is designed for RCCBs operating at voltages not exceeding 440 V AC and frequencies of 50 Hz, 60 Hz, or 50/60 Hz, with rated currents up to 125 A. Its primary emphasis is the protection against electric shock hazards in residential and similar environments.

This part serves as a complementary document to IEC 61008-1:2024. It outlines specific requirements, test procedures, and test sequences to verify RCCB compliance, particularly for functionalities related to operation at low ambient air temperatures. The standard is instrumental for manufacturers, testing agencies, and certification bodies in ensuring product reliability and safety.

Key Topics

• Scope and Application: Focuses on RCCBs for residential and similar settings, following classification 4.1.1 per IEC 61008-1:2024.
• Operating Conditions: Applies to devices running at ≤440 V AC and ≤125 A, with compatibility for various frequency ranges (50 Hz, 60 Hz, 50/60 Hz).
• Testing at Low Temperatures: Introduces specific requirements and test methods to ensure correct RCCB performance under extreme temperatures (–25 °C to +40 °C).
• Sample Size and Test Sequences: Details amendments to test circuits, sample numbers, and sequence tables, ensuring comprehensive product evaluation and reliability.
• Compliance and Certification: Clearly states use in conjunction with IEC 61008-1:2024 and serves as a certification benchmark for RCCBs.

Applications

The prEN IEC 61008-2-1:2026/prAA:2026 standard offers practical value across the electrical industry, particularly:

• Product Design and Development: Guides manufacturers in designing RCCBs that meet rigorous safety and reliability requirements, especially for use in severe climates.
• Testing and Certification: Provides testing agencies with prescriptive procedures and acceptance criteria, ensuring RCCBs’ operational integrity before market release.
• Installation and Inspection: Assists installers and field inspectors by defining performance benchmarks, supporting safe installation practices in both residential and similar settings.
• International Trade and Compliance: Facilitates market access by aligning RCCB products with harmonized European and international requirements, reducing certification barriers.

Related Standards

For comprehensive residual current device (RCD) safety and performance, consider the following associated standards:

• IEC 61008-1:2024: General rules for residual current operated circuit-breakers without integral overcurrent protection for household and similar uses (RCCBs).
• EN IEC 61543:2023: Electromagnetic compatibility requirements for residual current-operated protective devices.
• IEC 62873-2: Provides vocabulary and technical terms relating to RCDs for household and similar use.
• National Conformity Documents: Special national conditions may apply (e.g., Germany disallows use of RCCBs of type AC).

Summary

Adoption of prEN IEC 61008-2-1:2026/prAA:2026 ensures that RCCBs used in Europe’s households and similar environments deliver robust protection against electric shock, even in challenging temperature conditions. By adhering to this standard, stakeholders can guarantee product safety, compliance, and reliability, promoting both consumer confidence and international market acceptance.