IEC 60335-2-96:2019

Household and similar electrical appliances - Safety - Part 2-96: Particular requirements for flexible sheet heating elements for room heating

IEC 60335-2-96:2019 deals with the safety of flexible sheet heating elements intended to be incorporated into floors and walls below 1,2 m and above 2,3 m and in ceilings, their rated voltage being not more than 250 V for single-phase installations and 480 V for other installations.
Flexible sheet heating elements are converted into heating units that are incorporated in the building in accordance with the instructions after which the required level of protection against hazards is achieved. Attention is drawn to the fact that:
– in many countries, different wiring rules apply;
– for heating units intended to be used in vehicles or on board ships or aircraft, additional requirements can be necessary;
– in many countries, additional requirements are specified by the national authorities for fire protection, the national authorities for building regulations, the national health authorities, the national authorities responsible for the protection of labour and similar authorities.
This standard does not apply to:
– heating units intended exclusively for industrial purposes;
– heating units intended to be used in locations where special conditions prevail, such as the presence of a corrosive or explosive atmosphere (dust, vapour or gas);
– blankets, pads, clothing and similar flexible heating appliances (IEC 60335-2-17);
– foot warmers and heating mats (IEC 60335-2-81);
– heated carpets and for heating units for room heating installed under removable floor coverings (IEC 60335-2-106);
– flexible sheet heating elements incorporated in other appliances.
This second edition cancels and replaces the first edition published in 2002, Amendment 1:2003 and Amendment 2: 2008. This edition constitutes a technical revision.
This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the first edition:
– aligns the text with IEC 60335-1:2010, and its Amendments 1 and 2;
– some notes have been converted to normative text or deleted (5.6, 7.12.1, 10.1, 11.2.103, 13.1, 13.2, 16.2, 16.3, 18.101, 18.102.5, 21.1, 22.103, 22.105, 22.106);
– the strength test for heating units incorporating insulated wires intended to be installed in floors has been modified a (21.103);
– the scope and specific requirements have been added for heating units installed in walls below a height of 1,2 m (6.2, 7.1, 7.12.1, 7.12.6, 7.101, 11.2, 19.2, 22.106, 24.102, Annex AA).
The content of the corrigendum 1 (2025-10) has been included in this copy.

Appareils électrodomestiques et analogues - Sécurité - Partie 2-96: Exigences particulières pour les films souples chauffants pour le chauffage des locaux

L'IEC 60335-2-96:2019 traite de la sécurité des films souples chauffants destinés à être intégrés aux planchers, aux murs au-dessous d'une hauteur de 1,2 m et au-dessus d'une hauteur de 2,3 m ainsi qu'aux plafonds, leur tension assignée ne dépassant pas 250 V pour les installations monophasées et 480 V pour les autres installations.
Les films souples chauffants sont convertis en unités chauffantes qui sont intégrées au bâti conformément aux instructions relatives à l'installation après laquelle le niveau de protection contre les dangers est atteint. L'attention est attirée sur le fait que:
– dans de nombreux pays, différentes règles de câblage s'appliquent;
– pour les unités chauffantes destinées à être utilisées dans des véhicules ou à bord de navires ou d'avions, des exigences supplémentaires peuvent être nécessaires;
– dans de nombreux pays, des exigences supplémentaires sont spécifiées par les organismes nationaux responsables de la protection anti-incendie, les organismes nationaux responsables de la réglementation des constructions, les autorités sanitaires nationales, les organismes nationaux en charge de la protection des travailleurs et des organismes analogues.
La présente norme ne s'applique pas:
– aux unités chauffantes prévues exclusivement pour des usages industriels;
– aux unités chauffantes destinées à être utilisées dans des locaux présentant des conditions particulières, telles que la présence d'une atmosphère corrosive ou explosive (poussière, vapeur ou gaz);
– aux couvertures, coussins, vêtements et appareils chauffants souples analogues (IEC 60335-2-17);
– aux chancelières et carpettes chauffantes électriques (IEC 60335-2-81);
– aux tapis chauffants et aux unités chauffantes pour le chauffage des locaux, installés sous des revêtements de sol amovibles (IEC 60335-2-106);
– aux films souples chauffants intégrés dans d'autres appareils.
Cette deuxième édition annule et remplace la première édition parue en 2002, l'Amendement 1:2003 et l'Amendement 2:2008. Cette édition constitue une révision technique.
Cette édition inclut les modifications techniques majeures suivantes par rapport à la première édition:
– mise en correspondance du texte avec l'IEC 60335-1, Ed 5, et ses Amendements 1 et 2;
– certaines notes ont été converties en texte normatif ou supprimées (5.6, 7.12.1, 10.1, 11.2.103, 13.1, 13.2, 16.2, 16.3, 18.101, 18.102.5, 21.1, 22.103, 22.105, 22.106);
– l'essai de rigidité diélectrique des unités chauffantes comprenant les câbles isolés destinés à être installés dans les planchers a été modifié (21.103);
– le domaine d'application et des exigences spécifiques ont été ajoutés pour les unités chauffantes installées dans les murs au-dessous d'une hauteur de 1,2 m (6.2, 7.1, 7.12.1, 7.12.6, 7.101, 11.2, 19.2, 22.106, 24.102, Annexe AA).
Le contenu du corrigendum 1 (2025-10) a été pris en considération dans cet exemplaire.

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 16-May-2019
• ICS: 01 - GENERALITIES. TERMINOLOGY. STANDARDIZATION. DOCUMENTATION
• ICS: 13.120 - Domestic safety
• ICS: 97.100.10 - Electric heaters
• Technical Committee: TC 61 - Safety of household and similar electrical appliances
• Drafting Committee: MT 37 - TC 61/MT 37
• Current Stage: DELPUB - Deleted Publication
• Start Date: 29-Oct-2024
• Completion Date: 23-Jun-2023

Relations

• Corrected By: IEC 60335-2-96:2019/COR1:2025 - Corrigendum 1 - Household and similar electrical appliances - Safety - Part 2-96: Particular requirements for flexible sheet heating elements for room heating
• Effective Date: 26-Oct-2025
• Revises: IEC 60335-2-96:2002 - Household and similar electrical appliances - Safety - Part 2-96: Particular requirements for flexible sheet heating elements for room heating
• Effective Date: 05-Sep-2023
• Revises: IEC 60335-2-96:2002/AMD2:2008 - Amendment 2 - Household and similar electrical appliances - Safety - Part 2-96: Particular requirements for flexible sheet heating elements for room heating
• Effective Date: 05-Sep-2023
• Revises: IEC 60335-2-96:2002/COR1:2003 - Corrigendum 1 - Household and similar electrical appliances - Safety - Part 2-96: Particular requirements for flexible sheet heating elements for room heating
• Effective Date: 05-Sep-2023
• Revised: IEC 60335-2-96:2024 - Household and similar electrical appliances - Safety - Part 2-96: Particular requirements for flexible sheet heating elements for room heating
• Effective Date: 05-Sep-2023
• Revises: IEC 60335-2-96:2002/AMD1:2003 - Amendment 1 - Household and similar electrical appliances - Safety - Part 2-96: Particular requirements for flexible sheet heating elements for room heating
• Effective Date: 05-Sep-2023

Overview

IEC 60335-2-96:2019 is the IEC safety standard for flexible sheet heating elements for room heating intended to be incorporated into building fabric (floors, walls and ceilings). It specifies particular requirements that supplement IEC 60335-1 and applies to heating elements with rated voltages up to 250 V (single‑phase) and 480 V (other installations). This edition (2.0, 2019) supersedes the 2002 edition and incorporates technical revisions and corrigendum 1 (2025‑10).

Key topics and technical requirements

• Scope and exclusions
  • Applies to flexible sheet heating elements installed in floors and walls (below 1.2 m and above 2.3 m) and ceilings.
  • Excludes industrial heating, appliances for corrosive/explosive atmospheres, vehicle/ship/aircraft installations (which may need extra rules), and other appliance-specific heating items (see IEC 60335‑2‑17, IEC 60335‑2‑81, IEC 60335‑2‑106).
• Safety and construction requirements
  • Integration with IEC 60335‑1: treatment of general safety clauses and adaptations specific to sheet heating elements.
  • Requirements for marking, instructions, insulation, earthing, internal wiring, terminals, and components.
• Performance and test requirements
  • Tests for electrical strength, leakage current, transient overvoltages, moisture resistance, mechanical strength, endurance, abnormal operation and resistance to heat and fire.
  • Specific test arrangements and temperature‑rise limits (tables and figures provided) for installations in timber, concrete and modular construction.
• Recent technical changes
  • Alignment with IEC 60335‑1:2010 and its amendments.
  • Conversion of several notes into normative requirements.
  • Modified strength test for heating units with insulated wires for floor installation.
  • New requirements for heating units installed in walls below 1.2 m and an Annex (AA) summarizing installation instructions.

Practical applications

• Use this standard to design, test, certify and install in‑floor, in‑wall and ceiling embedded sheet heating systems used in residential and similar buildings.
• Helps manufacturers produce compliant heating units and informs product documentation, installation instructions and safety labeling.
• Used by testing laboratories and certification bodies for conformity assessment and by building authorities, electrical installers and specifiers to verify safe integration into construction.

Who should use this standard

• Manufacturers of flexible sheet heating elements and integrated heating units
• Test laboratories and conformity assessment bodies
• Electrical contractors, installers and building services engineers
• Regulatory and building authorities, product safety engineers

Related standards

• IEC 60335‑1 (general requirements for household electrical appliance safety)
• IEC 60335‑2‑17, IEC 60335‑2‑81, IEC 60335‑2‑106 (other heating appliance parts)
• National wiring and building regulations (may impose additional requirements)

Keywords: IEC 60335-2-96, flexible sheet heating elements, underfloor heating, heating unit safety, electrical appliance safety, IEC 60335-1, installation instructions, testing and certification.

Standards Content (Sample)

IEC 60335-2-96 ®
Edition 2.0 2019-05
REDLINE VERSION
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
colour
inside
Household and similar electrical appliances – Safety –
Part 2-96: Particular requirements for flexible sheet heating elements for room
heating
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IEC 60335-2-96 ®
Edition 2.0 2019-05
REDLINE VERSION
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
colour
inside
Household and similar electrical appliances – Safety –

Part 2-96: Particular requirements for flexible sheet heating elements for room

heating
INTERNATIONAL
ELECTROTECHNICAL
COMMISSION
ICS 97.100.10; 13.120 ISBN 978-2-8322-6977-0

– 2 – IEC 60335-2-96:2019 RLV © IEC 2019
CONTENTS
FOREWORD . 4
INTRODUCTION . 2
1 Scope . 8
2 Normative references . 8
3 Terms and definitions . 9
4 General requirement . 10
5 General conditions for the tests . 10
6 Classification . 11
7 Marking and instructions . 11
8 Protection against access to live parts . 17
9 Starting of motor-operated appliances . 17
10 Power input and current . 17
11 Heating . 17
12 Void . 21
13 Leakage current and electric strength at operating temperature . 21
14 Transient overvoltages . 22
15 Moisture resistance . 22
16 Leakage current and electric strength . 22
17 Overload protection of transformers and associated circuits . 23
18 Endurance . 23
19 Abnormal operation . 26
20 Stability and mechanical hazards . 27
21 Mechanical strength . 27
22 Construction . 28
23 Internal wiring . 31
24 Components . 31
25 Supply connection and external flexible cords . 31
26 Terminals for external conductors . 31
27 Provision for earthing . 32
28 Screws and connections . 32
29 Clearances, creepage distances and solid insulation . 32
30 Resistance to heat and fire . 32
31 Resistance to rusting . 33
32 Radiation, toxicity and similar hazards . 33
Annexes . 47
Annex AA (informative) Summary of installation instructions . 48
Bibliography . 50

Figure 101 – Arrangement for testing heating units in timber ceilings . 34
Figure 102 – Arrangement for testing modular heating units . 35
Figure 103 – Arrangement for testing heating units in timber floors . 36

Figure 104 – Arrangement for testing heating units in below concrete floors . 37
Figure 105 – Arrangement for testing heating units in timber floors and ceilings in
combination . 38
Figure 106 – Jig for locating the contact needle . 39
Figure 107 – Arrangement for testing heating units above timber floors . 40
Figure 108 – Arrangement for testing heating units above concrete floors . 41
Figure 109 – Arrangement for measuring capacitive currents . 42
Figure 110 – Arrangement for testing heating units in timber walls . 43
Figure 111 – Arrangement for testing heating units in both sides of timber wall
applications . 44
Figure 112 – Arrangement for testing heating units intended to be installed in a wall of
concrete or similar material . 45
Figure 113 – Arrangement for testing heating units against wall of concrete or similar
material . 46

Table 101 – Temperature rise limits for surfaces . 21
Table AA.1 – Summary of installation instructions . 48

– 4 – IEC 60335-2-96:2019 RLV © IEC 2019
INTERNATIONAL ELECTROTECHNICAL COMMISSION
____________
HOUSEHOLD AND SIMILAR ELECTRICAL APPLIANCES – SAFETY –

Part 2-96: Particular requirements for flexible
sheet heating elements for room heating

FOREWORD
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This redline version of the official IEC Standard allows the user to identify the changes
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International Standard IEC 60335-2-96 has been prepared by IEC technical committee 61:
Safety of household and similar electrical appliances.
This second edition cancels and replaces the first edition published in 2002,
Amendment 1:2003 and Amendment 2:2008. This edition constitutes a technical revision.
This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the first
edition:
– aligns the text with IEC 60335-1:2010, and its Amendments 1 and 2;
– some notes have been converted to normative text or deleted (5.6, 7.12.1, 10.1, 11.2.103,
13.1, 13.2, 16.2, 16.3, 18.101, 18.102.5, 21.1, 22.103, 22.105, 22.106);
– the strength test for heating units incorporating insulated wires intended to be installed in
floors has been modified a (21.103);
– the scope and specific requirements have been added for heating units installed in walls
below a height of 1,2 m (6.2, 7.1, 7.12.1, 7.12.6, 7.101, 11.2, 19.2, 22.106, 24.102, Annex
AA).
The text of this International Standard is based on the following documents:
FDIS Report on voting
61/5789/FDIS 61/5806/RVD
Full information on the voting for the approval of this International Standard can be found in
the report on voting indicated in the above table.
This document has been drafted in accordance with the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2.
A list of all parts of the IEC 60335 series, under the general title: Household and similar
electrical appliances – Safety, can be found on the IEC website.
This part 2 is to be used in conjunction with the latest edition of IEC 60335-1 and its
amendments. It was established on the basis of the fifth edition (2010) of that standard.
NOTE 1 When “Part 1” is mentioned in this standard, it refers to IEC 60335-1.
This part 2 supplements or modifies the corresponding clauses in IEC 60335-1, so as to
convert that publication into the IEC standard: Particular requirements for flexible sheet
heating elements for room heating.
When a particular subclause of Part 1 is not mentioned in this part 2, that subclause applies
as far as is reasonable. When this standard states "addition", "modification" or "replacement",
the relevant text in Part 1 is to be adapted accordingly.
NOTE 2 The following numbering system is used:
– subclauses, tables and figures that are numbered starting from 101 are additional to those in Part 1;
– unless notes are in a new subclause or involve notes in Part 1, they are numbered starting from 101, including
those in a replaced clause or subclause;
– additional annexes are lettered AA, BB, etc.
NOTE 3 The following print types are used:
– requirements: in roman type;
– test specifications: in italic type;
– notes: in small roman type.
Words in bold in the text are defined in Clause 3. When a definition concerns an adjective, the adjective and the
associated noun are also in bold.

– 6 – IEC 60335-2-96:2019 RLV © IEC 2019
The committee has decided that the contents of this document will remain unchanged until the
stability date indicated on the IEC website under "http://webstore.iec.ch" in the data related to
the specific document. At this date, the document will be
• reconfirmed,
• withdrawn,
• replaced by a revised edition, or
• amended.
NOTE 4 The attention of National Committees is drawn to the fact that equipment manufacturers and testing
organizations may need a transitional period following publication of a new, amended or revised IEC publication in
which to make products in accordance with the new requirements and to equip themselves for conducting new or
revised tests.
It is the recommendation of the committee that the content of this publication be adopted for implementation
nationally not earlier than 12 months or later than 36 months from the date of publication.
The following additional differences exist in the countries indicated below.
– 1: Flexible sheet heating elements that are cut on site are not allowed (France).
– 1: The intended installation is not to include walls (USA).
– 7.1: The intended installation is not to include walls (USA).
– 7.12.1 c): The instructions in timber floors shall state that the heating unit is to be covered with additional
insulation, be supplied through an isolating transformer, or be class II (Sweden).
– 7.12.1 c): The instructions need not refer to residual current devices (USA).
– Clause 18: The tests are different (USA).
– 22.102: The test is different (USA).
– 22.103: The test is different (USA).
– 25.3: Heating units are not allowed to incorporate supply cords (USA).

IMPORTANT – The “colour inside” logo on the cover page of this publication indicates
that it contains colours which are considered to be useful for the correct understanding
of its contents. Users should therefore print this publication using a colour printer.

INTRODUCTION
It has been assumed in the drafting of this International Standard that the execution of its
provisions is entrusted to appropriately qualified and experienced persons.
This standard recognizes the internationally accepted level of protection against hazards such
as electrical, mechanical, thermal, fire and radiation of appliances when operated as in
normal use taking into account the manufacturer's instructions. It also covers abnormal
situations that can be expected in practice and takes into account the way in which
electromagnetic phenomena can affect the safe operation of appliances.
This standard takes into account the requirements of IEC 60364 as far as possible so that
there is compatibility with the wiring rules when the appliance is connected to the supply
mains. However, national wiring rules may differ.
If an appliance within the scope of this standard also incorporates functions that are covered
by another part 2 of IEC 60335, the relevant part 2 is applied to each function separately, as
far as is reasonable. If applicable, the influence of one function on the other is taken into
account.
When a part 2 standard does not include additional requirements to cover hazards dealt with
in Part 1, Part 1 applies.
NOTE 1 This means that the technical committees responsible for the part 2 standards have determined that it is
not necessary to specify particular requirements for the appliance in question over and above the general
requirements.
This standard is a product family standard dealing with the safety of appliances and takes
precedence over horizontal and generic standards covering the same subject.
NOTE 2 Horizontal and generic standards covering a hazard are not applicable since they have been taken into
consideration when developing the general and particular requirements for the IEC 60335 series of standards. For
example, in the case of temperature requirements for surfaces on many appliances, generic standards, such as
ISO 13732-1 for hot surfaces, are not applicable in addition to Part 1 or part 2 standards.
An appliance that complies with the text of this standard will not necessarily be considered to
comply with the safety principles of the standard if, when examined and tested, it is found to
have other features which impair the level of safety covered by these requirements.
An appliance employing materials or having forms of construction differing from those detailed
in the requirements of this standard may be examined and tested according to the intent of
the requirements and, if found to be substantially equivalent, may be considered to comply
with the standard.
– 8 – IEC 60335-2-96:2019 RLV © IEC 2019
HOUSEHOLD AND SIMILAR ELECTRICAL APPLIANCES – SAFETY –

Part 2-96: Particular requirements for flexible
sheet heating elements for room heating

1 Scope
This clause of Part 1 is replaced by the following.
This part of IEC 60335 deals with the safety of flexible sheet heating elements intended to
be incorporated into the building to heat the room in which they are located floors and walls
below 1,2 m and above 2,3 m and in ceilings, their rated voltage being not more than 250 V
for single-phase installations and 480 V for other installations.
Flexible sheet heating elements are converted into heating units that are incorporated in
the building in accordance with the instructions after which the required level of protection
against hazards is achieved.
NOTE 101 Attention is drawn to the fact that
– in many countries, different wiring rules apply;
– for heating units intended to be used in vehicles or on board ships or aircraft, additional requirements may
can be necessary;
– in many countries, additional requirements are specified by the national authorities for fire protection, the
national authorities for building regulations, the national health authorities, the national authorities responsible
for the protection of labour and similar authorities.
NOTE 102 This standard does not apply to
– heating units intended exclusively for industrial purposes;
– heating units intended to be used in locations where special conditions prevail, such as the presence of a
corrosive or explosive atmosphere (dust, vapour or gas);
– blankets, pads, clothing and similar flexible heating appliances (IEC 60335-2-17);
– foot warmers and heating mats (IEC 60335-2-81);
– heating appliances intended to be used under a carpet;
– heated carpets and for heating units for room heating installed under removable floor coverings
(IEC 60335-2-106);
– flexible sheet heating elements incorporated in other appliances.
2 Normative references
This clause of Part 1 is applicable except as follows.
Addition:
IEC 60364-7-701:2006, Low-voltage electrical installations of buildings – Part 7-701:
Requirements for special installations or locations – Section 701: Electrical installations in
bathrooms Locations containing a bath or shower
IEC 60884-1:19952002, Plugs and socket-outlets for household and similar purposes – Part 1:
General requirements
IEC 60884-1:2002/AMD1:2006
IEC 60884-1:2002/AMD2:2013
ISO 3864-1, Graphical symbols – Safety colours and safety signs – Part 1: Design principles
for safety signs and safety markings
3 Terms and definitions
This clause of Part 1 is applicable except as follows.
3.1 Definitions relating to physical characteristics
Replacement:
3.1.9
normal operation
operation of the heating unit after incorporation into the building in accordance with the
instructions.
Flexible sheet heating elements, the current of which can vary depending on the length of
the flexible sheet heating elements and those that can supply other flexible sheet heating
elements are loaded so that the current marked on the flexible sheet heating elements
flows through the heating unit.
Heating units for storage heating applications are charged for 75 % of the rated charging
period.
3.1.101
rated charging period
longest uninterrupted charging period assigned to the heating unit by the manufacturer
3.2 Definitions relating to means of connection
Replacement:
3.2.1
supply leads
set of wires intended for connecting the appliance to fixed wiring
3.5 Definitions relating to types of appliances
3.5.4 Addition:
Heating units are considered to be fixed appliances.
3.5.101
flexible sheet heating element
heating element consisting of sheets of electrical insulation laminated with electrical
resistance material, or a base material on which electrically insulated heating wires are fixed
Note 1 to entry: This definition does not preclude other methods of combining the insulation and resistance
materials.
___________
There exists a consolidated edition 3.2:2013 that includes edition 3:2002, its Amendment 1:2006 and
Amendment 2:2013.
– 10 – IEC 60335-2-96:2019 RLV © IEC 2019
3.5.102
heating unit
flexible sheet heating element equipped with means of connection to the supply and with
insulation surrounding live parts
Note 1 to entry: The heating unit can be partly or completely prefabricated.
3.5.103
modular heating unit
prefabricated assembly consisting of a heating unit and other materials to form a rigid
construction for mounting on a ceiling
3.5.104
storage heating application
use of heating units to heat thermal accumulating material
Note 1 to entry: The heat is discharged naturally, the heat output being varied by adjusting the energy input.
3.105
rated charging period
longest uninterrupted charging period assigned to the heating unit by the manufacturer
3.6 Definitions relating to parts of an appliance
3.1066.101
electrode
conductive part incorporated in a flexible sheet heating element for supplying the heating
material
4 General requirement
This clause of Part 1 is applicable.
5 General conditions for the tests
This clause of Part 1 is applicable except as follows.
5.2 Replacement:
In general, eight samples are required for the tests.
The tests of 13.3 and of Clauses 15 and 16 are carried out on one sample.
The tests of 18.101 and of Clause 30 are carried out on one sample.
The test of 21.102 is carried out on two samples. One of these samples is also used for the
test of 22.101.
The test of 22.103 is carried out on one sample.
The remaining tests are carried out on the sixth sample. The other two samples are required
for incorporating into the test arrangement to create the necessary thermal environment.
NOTE 101 Additional samples may can be necessary if tests have to be repeated.
Nine samples of modular heating units are necessary for the tests of 11.2.102.

Additional samples are necessary if the tests of 18.102 are carried out.
Additional samples may can be necessary for testing different sizes of heating units.
The test of 22.105 is carried out on the same sample as that used for the test of 13.2.
Two samples of the additional layer of material, of sufficient size to cover the heating unit,
are required if the test of 21.104 is carried out.
5.3 Addition:
The test of 22.105 is carried out after the test of 13.2.
5.6 Addition:
Thermostats sensitive to room air temperature or outdoor air temperature are short circuited.
However, the thermostat is not short circuited if it can be set so that it does not cycle.
NOTE 101 For electronic controls, it may be necessary to render the sensing elements inoperative instead of
short circuiting the thermostat.
5.10 Addition:
However, for flexible sheet heating elements that are cut on site, the tests are carried out
after connecting the supply leads and protecting the edges in accordance with the
instructions.
5.101 Heating units intended to be installed in walls above a height of 2,3 m are subjected
to the tests for installation in ceilings.
6 Classification
This clause of Part 1 is applicable except as follows.
6.1 Addition:
Heating units need not be classified. However, if a heating unit is classified, the relevant
requirements apply.
6.2 Addition:
Heating units for installation in a floor of concrete or similar material shall be at least IPX7.
Other heating units shall be at least IPX1.
7 Marking and instructions
This clause of Part 1 is applicable except as follows.
7.1 Modification:
Instead of the marking of rated power input or rated current the following applies:
– heating units shall be marked with their rated power input;

– 12 – IEC 60335-2-96:2019 RLV © IEC 2019
– flexible sheet heating elements without connection between adjacent elements shall be
individually marked with their rated power input;
– other flexible sheet heating elements shall be marked with their rated power input per
metre length.
Flexible sheet heating elements shall be marked with their maximum current if
– the current can vary depending on the length of the flexible sheet heating element;
– other flexible sheet heating elements can be supplied through them.
Addition:
Flexible sheet heating elements shall be marked with:
– the indication of orientation, unless heating units are symmetrical;
– the intended installation (ceilings, walls between 0,2 m and 1,2 m and/or above 2,3 m, or
floors);
– the heating mode (direct heating or storage heating), unless intended for both modes.
If the heating unit is only intended for application in floors of concrete or similar materials, it
shall be marked accordingly with the symbol for installation in concrete or similar materials.
NOTE 101 The marking may be in the form of symbols that are explained in the instructions.
The marking shall be repeated at least once every 0,5 m of the flexible sheet heating
element or on every section that can be cut to form a heating unit.
Flexible sheet heating elements that can be cut on site and have to be cut at specified
places shall be marked appropriately.
Appliances with separate controls, without a control, or with detachable controls shall be
marked with the reference number or by other means of identification of the control.
7.6 Addition:
direct ceiling heating
direct floor heating
floor storage heating
wall heating
installation in concrete or similar material

These symbols are information signs and, except for the colours, the rules of ISO 3864-1
apply.
7.12.1 Addition:
Instructions shall be provided. They shall include
a) explanation of the marking and symbols, if necessary;
b) information for incorporating the heating units into the building, in particular the following:
– precautions to be taken to avoid damage during installation, such as dropping sharp
objects or stepping on the heating unit, or careless pouring of concrete;
– dimensions and distances to be taken into account;
– a statement that the heating units have to be separated from other heat sources such
as luminaires and chimneys;
– description of the fixing areas of the heating unit and the separate screen, if
applicable;
– guidance on how to avoid air gaps between the flexible sheet heating element and
the screed of concrete floors;
– guidance on how to avoid damage to a flexible sheet heating element and its
terminations in timber constructions due to relative movement after installation;
– a warning against incorporating heating units below a height of 2,3 m into walls or
into ceilings inclined at less than 45° to the vertical;
– the lowest ambient temperature at which heating units may be installed;
– the minimum radius for bending the flexible sheet heating element, if applicable;
– a statement that heating units shall not cross expansion joints of the building or
structure;
– a statement to ensure that attachment of room fittings does not restrict heat emission
from heated areas.
Except for modular heating units, the instructions shall include the following:
– precautions to be taken to avoid creasing the flexible sheet heating element;
– a statement that the heating unit is not to be installed on irregular surfaces;
– a description of the intended orientation and a statement that the heating unit is to be
installed with the correct orientation in this way (for heating units having non-
symmetric construction);
c) a statement that the installation is to be in accordance with the national wiring rules. The
substance of the following information shall be included:
– the heating units are to be supplied through a residual current device (RCD) having a
rated residual operating current not exceeding 30 mA. The RCD shall not be of the
time delayed type. Alternatively, except for installations in floors surrounding swimming
pools or walls below a height of 2,3 m, they may be supplied through an isolating
transformer. This statement is not required for class III heating units and for
applications in
• timber floors provided that the instructions for installation state that there is to be
an air gap between the heating unit and the floor;
• timber ceilings;
– 14 – IEC 60335-2-96:2019 RLV © IEC 2019
• floors of concrete or similar material in dry locations (dry locations are areas
outside zone 3 as defined in IEC 60364-7-701) as long as the basic insulation and
additional electrical insulation each withstand the electric strength test of 16.3 for
reinforced insulation;
– how to connect heating units to the supply, giving the cross-sectional area of the
leads, if applicable;
– how to interconnect the heating units, giving the cross-sectional area of the leads, if
applicable;
– heating units shall be installed to avoid increasing the ambient temperature of any
existing electrical installation;
d) the maximum current allowed to flow through one heating unit when other units are
supplied through it or when the current can vary depending on its length;
e) list of controls, unless they are incorporated into the heating unit;
NOTE 101 Only those controls that are necessary to ensure compliance with the standard need be listed.
f) the maximum thermal resistance between the heating unit and the room;
g) the type of covering materials that are allowed to be used in conjunction with the heating
units with a statement that the advice of the manufacturer is to be requested before
materials other than those recommended are used; the thickness of covering materials,
which for floors shall be at least 5 mm;
h) characteristics of the thermal insulation that is to be inserted between separate heating
units installed to heat a floor and the ceiling below it;
i) characteristics of the thermal insulation that is to be inserted between separate heating
units installed to heat both sides of a wall;
j) specification of any adhesive to be used;
k) a statement that a label is to be fixed adjacent to the distribution board and that it has to
contain the locations of the heating units;
l) if the heating units are installed in a suspended ceiling, or are accessible from the roof
space, a statement that a label giving this information is to be fixed to the access point of
the ceiling;
m) in applications in timber floors, a statement indicating that heating units having basic
insulation only shall be covered by additional electrical insulation or supplied through an
isolating transformer.
NOTE 102101 A summary of particular installation requirements for different applications is given in Annex AA.
7.12.101 The instructions for applications in floors of concrete or similar material or under
tiles shall state that
a) a grid is to be installed above the heating unit. The grid is to
– be protected against corrosion but not electrically insulated;
– be electrically and mechanically equivalent to a steel grid having a mesh not more than
50 mm × 50 mm and a wire diameter of 1 mm, unless the grid covers
• class II heating units;
• heating units installed with additional electrical insulation;
– fully cover the heating unit including the fixing areas. It may cover several heating
units;
– be connected to earth;
– be fitted with terminals suitable for the connection of two conductors each having a
nominal cross-sectional area of 2,5 mm ;
– be checked for electrical continuity during installation.
The grid is not required for
– class III heating units;
– class II heating units supplied through an isolating transformer;
– class II heating units that are installed in dry locations (dry locations are areas
outside zone 3 as defined in IEC 60364-7-701) and are supplied through a residual
current device (RCD);
– heating units installed in dry locations (dry locations are areas outside zone 3 as
defined in IEC 60364-7-701) if the basic insulation and additional electrical insulation
each withstand the electric strength test of 16.3 of reinforced insulation;
– heating units incorporating a metallic shield or braid having a resistance per unit
length equivalent to that of 0,5 mm copper wire;
b) when the heating units have been positioned, they must be covered with an additional
layer of polyethylene film approximately 250 µm thick or other material having similar
mechanical properties for mechanical protection. If the heating units are placed on
concrete, a similar layer is to be inserted between the heating unit and the concrete.
Adjacent layers are to overlap and be fixed to each other. The layer is to extend up each
wall to the surface level of the screed. These statements are not required if
– screened insulated heating wires are covered with a sheath complying with 21.103;
– the additional electrical insulation complies with the test of 21.102;
c) when heating units having basic insulation only, other than those supplied at safety
extra-low voltage, are provided with additional electrical insulation, this additional
insulation is to be placed directly on the heating unit;
d) class II heating units are to be installed at a distance of at least 30 mm from conductive
parts of the building, such as water pipes.
NOTE These instructions apply to applications where the concrete or similar material is laid on a timber floor.
7.12.102 The instructions for applications in metallic ceilings or metallic floors for heating
units with basic insulation only, other than those supplied at safety extra-low voltage, shall
state that
a) the flexible sheet heating element is to be fully covered by the ceiling or floor;
b) the metallic parts of the ceiling or floor are to be earthed. The instructions shall state that
they have to be fitted with terminals suitable for the connection of two conductors each
having a nominal cross-sectional area of 2,5 mm and explain how the connection to the
earthing terminal is to be made to ensure a low resistance. The statements regarding the
need for earthing are not required if it is stated that a layer of additional electrical
insulation is to be installed between the heating unit and the ceiling. If this insulation is
not provided, the name of the manufacturer and reference of the insulation shall be given.
7.12.103 The instructions for applications on floors where the heating units are to be
covered by tiles shall state that the heating units are to be covered by additional electrical
insulation, unless the heating units are class I, class II or class III.
7.12.104 The instructions for flexible sheet heating elements that can be cut on site shall
state that this work is only to be carried out by persons authorized by the manufacturer and
shall give information on how to
– cut the flexible sheet heating elements;
– protect the edges of the flexible sheet heating elements;
– connect the supply leads and the interconnection leads, and insulate the connections.
7.12.105 The instructions for heating units for storage heating applications shall specify
the rated charging period.
7.12.106 Unless heating units
– 16 – IEC 60335-2-96:2019 RLV © IEC 2019
– incorporate a metallic shield or braid having a resistance per unit length equivalent to that
of 0,5 mm copper wire; or
– are of class III; or
– consist of a base material on which metallically screened electrically insulated heating
wires are fixed and are for application in walls below a height of 1,2 m,
their instructions shall state that the heating units shall be of the type constructed with an
electrical conductive screen. The heating unit shall be installed so that the screen is towards
the covering material.
The instructions for heating units which are for application in walls below a height of 1,2 m
and with a separate electrical conductive screen shall state that the screen shall be placed
between the covering material and the heating unit.
The instructions for heating units which are for application in walls, shall state that the
heating unit shall be installed:
– between 0,2 m and 1,2 m above the floor; or
– above 2,3 m above the floor.
The screen is to be connected to the earthing conductor of the fixed installation.
If the heating unit is installed in an internal wall with the distance between the wall materials
less than 50 mm, the heating unit shall be installed so that the screen is towards the wall
covering material on both sides of the heating unit.
The instructions for heating units with detachable protection circuit shall give instructions
for their installation.
7.14 Modification:
The test with petroleum spirit is not carried out.
Addition:
If symbols are used relating to the intended installation or heating mode, the superimposed
rectangle shall have a height of at least 15 mm.
7.15 Modification:
Only the requirements for switches and controls are applicable.
7.101 A label that contains sufficient space for the locations of the heating units to be listed
shall be provided for each installation giving
– the name, trade mark or identification mark of the manufacturer or responsible vendor;
– the model or type reference.
It shall state the substance of the following:
– flexible sheet heating units are installed in the ceiling/wall/floor, as applicable;
– do not restrict the thermal emission of the heated ceiling/wall/floor, as applicable;
NOTE The specific application is to be stated on the label.
– do not affix materials other than those recommended;
– do not insert nails, screws and do not drill in other than heating free areas;

– this label shall be fixed to or adjacent to the distribution board that supplies the heating
unit.
If heating units are installed in walls below a height of 1,2 m, the label shall state the
locations of the heating free areas or heated areas.
Compliance is checked by inspection.
8 Protection against access to live parts
This clause of Part 1 is applicable.
9 Starting of motor-operated appliances
This clause of Part 1 is not applicable.
...

IEC 60335-2-96 ®
Edition 2.0 2019-05
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
NORME
INTERNATIONALE
Household and similar electrical appliances – Safety –
Part 2-96: Particular requirements for flexible sheet heating elements for room
heating
Appareils électrodomestiques et analogues – Sécurité –
Partie 2-96: Exigences particulières pour les films souples chauffants pour le
chauffage des locaux
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IEC 60335-2-96 ®
Edition 2.0 2019-05
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
NORME
INTERNATIONALE
Household and similar electrical appliances – Safety –

Part 2-96: Particular requirements for flexible sheet heating elements for room

heating
Appareils électrodomestiques et analogues – Sécurité –

Partie 2-96: Exigences particulières pour les films souples chauffants pour le

chauffage des locaux
INTERNATIONAL
ELECTROTECHNICAL
COMMISSION
COMMISSION
ELECTROTECHNIQUE
INTERNATIONALE
ICS 97.100.10; 13.120 ISBN 978-2-8322-6865-0

– 2 – IEC 60335-2-96:2019 © IEC 2019
CONTENTS
FOREWORD . 4
INTRODUCTION . 7
1 Scope . 8
2 Normative references . 8
3 Terms and definitions . 9
4 General requirement . 10
5 General conditions for the tests . 10
6 Classification . 11
7 Marking and instructions . 11
8 Protection against access to live parts . 16
9 Starting of motor-operated appliances . 16
10 Power input and current . 16
11 Heating . 17
12 Void . 21
13 Leakage current and electric strength at operating temperature . 21
14 Transient overvoltages . 21
15 Moisture resistance . 22
16 Leakage current and electric strength . 22
17 Overload protection of transformers and associated circuits . 23
18 Endurance . 23
19 Abnormal operation . 25
20 Stability and mechanical hazards . 26
21 Mechanical strength . 26
22 Construction . 28
23 Internal wiring . 30
24 Components . 30
25 Supply connection and external flexible cords . 30
26 Terminals for external conductors . 31
27 Provision for earthing . 31
28 Screws and connections . 31
29 Clearances, creepage distances and solid insulation . 31
30 Resistance to heat and fire . 32
31 Resistance to rusting . 32
32 Radiation, toxicity and similar hazards . 32
Annexes . 46
Annex AA (informative) Summary of installation instructions . 47
Bibliography . 49

Figure 101 – Arrangement for testing heating units in timber ceilings . 33
Figure 102 – Arrangement for testing modular heating units . 34
Figure 103 – Arrangement for testing heating units in timber floors . 35

Figure 104 – Arrangement for testing heating units below concrete . 36
Figure 105 – Arrangement for testing heating units in timber floors and ceilings in
combination . 37
Figure 106 – Jig for locating the contact needle . 38
Figure 107 – Arrangement for testing heating units above timber floors . 39
Figure 108 – Arrangement for testing heating units above concrete floors . 40
Figure 109 – Arrangement for measuring capacitive currents . 41
Figure 110 – Arrangement for testing heating units in timber walls . 42
Figure 111 – Arrangement for testing heating units in both sides of timber wall
applications . 43
Figure 112 – Arrangement for testing heating units intended to be installed in a wall of
concrete or similar material . 44
Figure 113 – Arrangement for testing heating units against wall of concrete or similar
material . 45

Table 101 – Temperature rise limits for surfaces . 21
Table AA.1 – Summary of installation instructions . 47

– 4 – IEC 60335-2-96:2019 © IEC 2019
INTERNATIONAL ELECTROTECHNICAL COMMISSION
____________
HOUSEHOLD AND SIMILAR ELECTRICAL APPLIANCES – SAFETY –

Part 2-96: Particular requirements for flexible
sheet heating elements for room heating

FOREWORD
1) The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) is a worldwide organization for standardization comprising
all national electrotechnical committees (IEC National Committees). The object of IEC is to promote
international co-operation on all questions concerning standardization in the electrical and electronic fields. To
this end and in addition to other activities, IEC publishes International Standards, Technical Specifications,
Technical Reports, Publicly Available Specifications (PAS) and Guides (hereafter referred to as “IEC
Publication(s)”). Their preparation is entrusted to technical committees; any IEC National Committee interested
in the subject dealt with may participate in this preparatory work. International, governmental and non-
governmental organizations liaising with the IEC also participate in this preparation. IEC collaborates closely
with the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) in accordance with conditions determined by
agreement between the two organizations.
2) The formal decisions or agreements of IEC on technical matters express, as nearly as possible, an international
consensus of opinion on the relevant subjects since each technical committee has representation from all
interested IEC National Committees.
3) IEC Publications have the form of recommendations for international use and are accepted by IEC National
Committees in that sense. While all reasonable efforts are made to ensure that the technical content of IEC
Publications is accurate, IEC cannot be held responsible for the way in which they are used or for any
misinterpretation by any end user.
4) In order to promote international uniformity, IEC National Committees undertake to apply IEC Publications
transparently to the maximum extent possible in their national and regional publications. Any divergence
between any IEC Publication and the corresponding national or regional publication shall be clearly indicated in
the latter.
5) IEC itself does not provide any attestation of conformity. Independent certification bodies provide conformity
assessment services and, in some areas, access to IEC marks of conformity. IEC is not responsible for any
services carried out by independent certification bodies.
6) All users should ensure that they have the latest edition of this publication.
7) No liability shall attach to IEC or its directors, employees, servants or agents including individual experts and
members of its technical committees and IEC National Committees for any personal injury, property damage or
other damage of any nature whatsoever, whether direct or indirect, or for costs (including legal fees) and
expenses arising out of the publication, use of, or reliance upon, this IEC Publication or any other IEC
Publications.
8) Attention is drawn to the Normative references cited in this publication. Use of the referenced publications is
indispensable for the correct application of this publication.
9) Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this IEC Publication may be the subject of
patent rights. IEC shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights.
International Standard IEC 60335-2-96 has been prepared by IEC technical committee 61:
Safety of household and similar electrical appliances.
This second edition cancels and replaces the first edition published in 2002,
Amendment 1:2003 and Amendment 2:2008. This edition constitutes a technical revision.
This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the first
edition:
– aligns the text with IEC 60335-1:2010, and its Amendments 1 and 2;
– some notes have been converted to normative text or deleted (5.6, 7.12.1, 10.1, 11.2.103,
13.1, 13.2, 16.2, 16.3, 18.101, 18.102.5, 21.1, 22.103, 22.105, 22.106);
– the strength test for heating units incorporating insulated wires intended to be installed in
floors has been modified a (21.103);

– the scope and specific requirements have been added for heating units installed in walls
below a height of 1,2 m (6.2, 7.1, 7.12.1, 7.12.6, 7.101, 11.2, 19.2, 22.106, 24.102, Annex
AA).
The text of this International Standard is based on the following documents:
FDIS Report on voting
61/5789/FDIS 61/5806/RVD
Full information on the voting for the approval of this International Standard can be found in
the report on voting indicated in the above table.
This document has been drafted in accordance with the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2.
A list of all parts of the IEC 60335 series, under the general title: Household and similar
electrical appliances – Safety, can be found on the IEC website.
This part 2 is to be used in conjunction with the latest edition of IEC 60335-1 and its
amendments. It was established on the basis of the fifth edition (2010) of that standard.
NOTE 1 When “Part 1” is mentioned in this standard, it refers to IEC 60335-1.
This part 2 supplements or modifies the corresponding clauses in IEC 60335-1, so as to
convert that publication into the IEC standard: Particular requirements for flexible sheet
heating elements for room heating.
When a particular subclause of Part 1 is not mentioned in this part 2, that subclause applies
as far as is reasonable. When this standard states "addition", "modification" or "replacement",
the relevant text in Part 1 is to be adapted accordingly.
NOTE 2 The following numbering system is used:
– subclauses, tables and figures that are numbered starting from 101 are additional to those in Part 1;
– unless notes are in a new subclause or involve notes in Part 1, they are numbered starting from 101, including
those in a replaced clause or subclause;
– additional annexes are lettered AA, BB, etc.
NOTE 3 The following print types are used:
– requirements: in roman type;
– test specifications: in italic type;
– notes: in small roman type.
Words in bold in the text are defined in Clause 3. When a definition concerns an adjective, the adjective and the
associated noun are also in bold.
The committee has decided that the contents of this document will remain unchanged until the
stability date indicated on the IEC website under "http://webstore.iec.ch" in the data related to
the specific document. At this date, the document will be
• reconfirmed,
• withdrawn,
• replaced by a revised edition, or
• amended.
NOTE 4 The attention of National Committees is drawn to the fact that equipment manufacturers and testing
organizations may need a transitional period following publication of a new, amended or revised IEC publication in
which to make products in accordance with the new requirements and to equip themselves for conducting new or
revised tests.
– 6 – IEC 60335-2-96:2019 © IEC 2019
It is the recommendation of the committee that the content of this publication be adopted for implementation
nationally not earlier than 12 months or later than 36 months from the date of publication.
The following additional differences exist in the countries indicated below.
– 1: Flexible sheet heating elements that are cut on site are not allowed (France).
– 1: The intended installation is not to include walls (USA).
– 7.1: The intended installation is not to include walls (USA).
– 7.12.1 c): The instructions in timber floors shall state that the heating unit is to be covered with additional
insulation, be supplied through an isolating transformer, or be class II (Sweden).
– 7.12.1 c): The instructions need not refer to residual current devices (USA).
– Clause 18: The tests are different (USA).
– 22.102: The test is different (USA).
– 22.103: The test is different (USA).
– 25.3: Heating units are not allowed to incorporate supply cords (USA).

INTRODUCTION
It has been assumed in the drafting of this International Standard that the execution of its
provisions is entrusted to appropriately qualified and experienced persons.
This standard recognizes the internationally accepted level of protection against hazards such
as electrical, mechanical, thermal, fire and radiation of appliances when operated as in
normal use taking into account the manufacturer's instructions. It also covers abnormal
situations that can be expected in practice and takes into account the way in which
electromagnetic phenomena can affect the safe operation of appliances.
This standard takes into account the requirements of IEC 60364 as far as possible so that
there is compatibility with the wiring rules when the appliance is connected to the supply
mains. However, national wiring rules may differ.
If an appliance within the scope of this standard also incorporates functions that are covered
by another part 2 of IEC 60335, the relevant part 2 is applied to each function separately, as
far as is reasonable. If applicable, the influence of one function on the other is taken into
account.
When a part 2 standard does not include additional requirements to cover hazards dealt with
in Part 1, Part 1 applies.
NOTE 1 This means that the technical committees responsible for the part 2 standards have determined that it is
not necessary to specify particular requirements for the appliance in question over and above the general
requirements.
This standard is a product family standard dealing with the safety of appliances and takes
precedence over horizontal and generic standards covering the same subject.
NOTE 2 Horizontal and generic standards covering a hazard are not applicable since they have been taken into
consideration when developing the general and particular requirements for the IEC 60335 series of standards. For
example, in the case of temperature requirements for surfaces on many appliances, generic standards, such as
ISO 13732-1 for hot surfaces, are not applicable in addition to Part 1 or part 2 standards.
An appliance that complies with the text of this standard will not necessarily be considered to
comply with the safety principles of the standard if, when examined and tested, it is found to
have other features which impair the level of safety covered by these requirements.
An appliance employing materials or having forms of construction differing from those detailed
in the requirements of this standard may be examined and tested according to the intent of
the requirements and, if found to be substantially equivalent, may be considered to comply
with the standard.
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HOUSEHOLD AND SIMILAR ELECTRICAL APPLIANCES – SAFETY –

Part 2-96: Particular requirements for flexible
sheet heating elements for room heating

1 Scope
This clause of Part 1 is replaced by the following.
This part of IEC 60335 deals with the safety of flexible sheet heating elements intended to
be incorporated into floors and walls below 1,2 m and above 2,3 m and in ceilings, their rated
voltage being not more than 250 V for single-phase installations and 480 V for other
installations.
Flexible sheet heating elements are converted into heating units that are incorporated in
the building in accordance with the instructions after which the required level of protection
against hazards is achieved.
NOTE 101 Attention is drawn to the fact that
– in many countries, different wiring rules apply;
– for heating units intended to be used in vehicles or on board ships or aircraft, additional requirements can be
necessary;
– in many countries, additional requirements are specified by the national authorities for fire protection, the
national authorities for building regulations, the national health authorities, the national authorities responsible
for the protection of labour and similar authorities.
NOTE 102 This standard does not apply to
– heating units intended exclusively for industrial purposes;
– heating units intended to be used in locations where special conditions prevail, such as the presence of a
corrosive or explosive atmosphere (dust, vapour or gas);
– blankets, pads, clothing and similar flexible heating appliances (IEC 60335-2-17);
– foot warmers and heating mats (IEC 60335-2-81);
– heated carpets and for heating units for room heating installed under removable floor coverings
(IEC 60335-2-106);
– flexible sheet heating elements incorporated in other appliances.
2 Normative references
This clause of Part 1 is applicable except as follows.
Addition:
IEC 60364-7-701:2006, Low-voltage electrical installations – Part 7-701: Requirements for
special installations or locations – Locations containing a bath or shower
IEC 60884-1:2002, Plugs and socket-outlets for household and similar purposes – Part 1:
General requirements
IEC 60884-1:2002/AMD1:2006
IEC 60884-1:2002/AMD2:2013
___________
There exists a consolidated edition 3.2:2013 that includes edition 3:2002, its Amendment 1:2006 and
Amendment 2:2013.
ISO 3864-1, Graphical symbols – Safety colours and safety signs – Part 1: Design principles
for safety signs and safety markings
3 Terms and definitions
This clause of Part 1 is applicable except as follows.
3.1 Definitions relating to physical characteristics
Replacement:
3.1.9
normal operation
operation of the heating unit after incorporation into the building in accordance with the
instructions.
Flexible sheet heating elements, the current of which can vary depending on the length of
the flexible sheet heating elements and those that can supply other flexible sheet heating
elements are loaded so that the current marked on the flexible sheet heating elements
flows through the heating unit.
Heating units for storage heating applications are charged for 75 % of the rated charging
period.
3.1.101
rated charging period
longest uninterrupted charging period assigned to the heating unit by the manufacturer
3.2 Definitions relating to means of connection
Replacement:
3.2.1
supply leads
set of wires intended for connecting the appliance to fixed wiring
3.5 Definitions relating to types of appliances
3.5.4 Addition:
Heating units are considered to be fixed appliances.
3.5.101
flexible sheet heating element
heating element consisting of sheets of electrical insulation laminated with electrical
resistance material, or a base material on which electrically insulated heating wires are fixed
Note 1 to entry: This definition does not preclude other methods of combining the insulation and resistance
materials.
3.5.102
heating unit
flexible sheet heating element equipped with means of connection to the supply and with
insulation surrounding live parts
Note 1 to entry: The heating unit can be partly or completely prefabricated.

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3.5.103
modular heating unit
prefabricated assembly consisting of a heating unit and other materials to form a rigid
construction for mounting on a ceiling
3.5.104
storage heating application
use of heating units to heat thermal accumulating material
Note 1 to entry: The heat is discharged naturally, the heat output being varied by adjusting the energy input.
3.6 Definitions relating to parts of an appliance
3.6.101
electrode
conductive part incorporated in a flexible sheet heating element for supplying the heating
material
4 General requirement
This clause of Part 1 is applicable.
5 General conditions for the tests
This clause of Part 1 is applicable except as follows.
5.2 Replacement:
In general, eight samples are required for the tests.
The tests of 13.3 and of Clauses 15 and 16 are carried out on one sample.
The tests of 18.101 and of Clause 30 are carried out on one sample.
The test of 21.102 is carried out on two samples. One of these samples is also used for the
test of 22.101.
The test of 22.103 is carried out on one sample.
The remaining tests are carried out on the sixth sample. The other two samples are required
for incorporating into the test arrangement to create the necessary thermal environment.
NOTE 101 Additional samples can be necessary if tests have to be repeated.
Nine samples of modular heating units are necessary for the tests of 11.2.102.
Additional samples are necessary if the tests of 18.102 are carried out.
Additional samples can be necessary for testing different sizes of heating units.
The test of 22.105 is carried out on the same sample as that used for the test of 13.2.
Two samples of the additional layer of material, of sufficient size to cover the heating unit,
are required if the test of 21.104 is carried out.

5.3 Addition:
The test of 22.105 is carried out after the test of 13.2.
5.6 Addition:
Thermostats sensitive to room air temperature or outdoor air temperature are short circuited.
However, the thermostat is not short circuited if it can be set so that it does not cycle.
5.10 Addition:
However, for flexible sheet heating elements that are cut on site, the tests are carried out
after connecting the supply leads and protecting the edges in accordance with the
instructions.
5.101 Heating units intended to be installed in walls above a height of 2,3 m are subjected
to the tests for installation in ceilings.
6 Classification
This clause of Part 1 is applicable except as follows.
6.1 Addition:
Heating units need not be classified. However, if a heating unit is classified, the relevant
requirements apply.
6.2 Addition:
Heating units for installation in concrete or similar material shall be at least IPX7.
Other heating units shall be at least IPX1.
7 Marking and instructions
This clause of Part 1 is applicable except as follows.
7.1 Modification:
Instead of the marking of rated power input or rated current the following applies:
– heating units shall be marked with their rated power input;
– flexible sheet heating elements without connection between adjacent elements shall be
individually marked with their rated power input;
– other flexible sheet heating elements shall be marked with their rated power input per
metre length.
Flexible sheet heating elements shall be marked with their maximum current if
– the current can vary depending on the length of the flexible sheet heating element;
– other flexible sheet heating elements can be supplied through them.
Addition:
Flexible sheet heating elements shall be marked with:

– 12 – IEC 60335-2-96:2019 © IEC 2019
– the indication of orientation, unless heating units are symmetrical;
– the intended installation (ceilings, walls between 0,2 m and 1,2 m and/or above 2,3 m, or
floors);
– the heating mode (direct heating or storage heating), unless intended for both modes.
If the heating unit is only intended for application in floors of concrete or similar materials, it
shall be marked with the symbol for installation in concrete or similar materials.
The marking shall be repeated at least once every 0,5 m of the flexible sheet heating
element or on every section that can be cut to form a heating unit.
Flexible sheet heating elements that can be cut on site and have to be cut at specified
places shall be marked appropriately.
Appliances with separate controls, without a control, or with detachable controls shall be
marked with the reference number or by other means of identification of the control.
7.6 Addition:
direct ceiling heating
direct floor heating
floor storage heating
wall heating
installation in concrete or similar material

These symbols are information signs and, except for the colours, the rules of ISO 3864-1
apply.
7.12.1 Addition:
Instructions shall be provided. They shall include
a) explanation of the marking and symbols, if necessary;
b) information for incorporating the heating units into the building, in particular the following:
– precautions to be taken to avoid damage during installation, such as dropping sharp
objects or stepping on the heating unit, or careless pouring of concrete;

– dimensions and distances to be taken into account;
– a statement that the heating units have to be separated from other heat sources such
as luminaires and chimneys;
– description of the fixing areas of the heating unit and the separate screen, if
applicable;
– guidance on how to avoid air gaps between the flexible sheet heating element and
the screed of concrete floors;
– guidance on how to avoid damage to a flexible sheet heating element and its
terminations in timber constructions due to relative movement after installation;
– the lowest ambient temperature at which heating units may be installed;
– the minimum radius for bending the flexible sheet heating element, if applicable;
– a statement that heating units shall not cross expansion joints of the building or
structure;
– a statement to ensure that attachment of room fittings does not restrict heat emission
from heated areas.
Except for modular heating units, the instructions shall include the following:
– precautions to be taken to avoid creasing the flexible sheet heating element;
– a statement that the heating unit is not to be installed on irregular surfaces;
– a description of the intended orientation and a statement that the heating unit is to be
installed in this way (for heating units having non-symmetric construction);
c) a statement that the installation is to be in accordance with the national wiring rules. The
substance of the following information shall be included:
– the heating units are to be supplied through a residual current device (RCD) having a
rated residual operating current not exceeding 30 mA. The RCD shall not be of the
time delayed type. Alternatively, except for installations in floors surrounding swimming
pools or walls below a height of 2,3 m, they may be supplied through an isolating
transformer. This statement is not required for class III heating units and for
applications in
• timber floors provided that the instructions for installation state that there is to be
an air gap between the heating unit and the floor;
• timber ceilings;
• floors of concrete or similar material in dry locations (dry locations are areas
outside zone 3 as defined in IEC 60364-7-701) as long as the basic insulation and
additional electrical insulation each withstand the electric strength test of 16.3 for
reinforced insulation;
– how to connect heating units to the supply, giving the cross-sectional area of the
leads, if applicable;
– how to interconnect the heating units, giving the cross-sectional area of the leads, if
applicable;
– heating units shall be installed to avoid increasing the ambient temperature of any
existing electrical installation;
d) the maximum current allowed to flow through one heating unit when other units are
supplied through it or when the current can vary depending on its length;
e) list of controls, unless they are incorporated into the heating unit;
f) the maximum thermal resistance between the heating unit and the room;
g) the type of covering materials that are allowed to be used in conjunction with the heating
units with a statement that the advice of the manufacturer is to be requested before
materials other than those recommended are used; the thickness of covering materials,
which for floors shall be at least 5 mm;
h) characteristics of the thermal insulation that is to be inserted between separate heating
units installed to heat a floor and the ceiling below it;

– 14 – IEC 60335-2-96:2019 © IEC 2019
i) characteristics of the thermal insulation that is to be inserted between separate heating
units installed to heat both sides of a wall;
j) specification of any adhesive to be used;
k) a statement that a label is to be fixed adjacent to the distribution board and that it has to
contain the locations of the heating units;
l) if the heating units are installed in a suspended ceiling, or are accessible from the roof
space, a statement that a label giving this information is to be fixed to the access point of
the ceiling;
m) in applications in timber floors, a statement indicating that heating units having basic
insulation only shall be covered by additional electrical insulation or supplied through an
isolating transformer.
NOTE 101 A summary of particular installation requirements for different applications is given in Annex AA.
7.12.101 The instructions for applications in floors of concrete or similar material or under
tiles shall state that
a) a grid is to be installed above the heating unit. The grid is to
– be protected against corrosion but not electrically insulated;
– be electrically and mechanically equivalent to a steel grid having a mesh not more than
50 mm × 50 mm and a wire diameter of 1 mm, unless the grid covers
• class II heating units;
• heating units installed with additional electrical insulation;
– fully cover the heating unit including the fixing areas. It may cover several heating
units;
– be connected to earth;
– be fitted with terminals suitable for the connection of two conductors each having a
nominal cross-sectional area of 2,5 mm ;
– be checked for electrical continuity during installation.
The grid is not required for
– class III heating units;
– class II heating units supplied through an isolating transformer;
– class II heating units that are installed in dry locations (dry locations are areas
outside zone 3 as defined in IEC 60364-7-701) and are supplied through a residual
current device (RCD);
– heating units installed in dry locations (dry locations are areas outside zone 3 as
defined in IEC 60364-7-701) if the basic insulation and additional electrical insulation
each withstand the electric strength test of 16.3 of reinforced insulation;
– heating units incorporating a metallic shield or braid having a resistance per unit
length equivalent to that of 0,5 mm copper wire;
b) when the heating units have been positioned, they must be covered with an additional
layer of material for mechanical protection. If the heating units are placed on concrete, a
similar layer is to be inserted between the heating unit and the concrete. Adjacent layers
are to overlap and be fixed to each other. The layer is to extend up each wall to the
surface level of the screed. These statements are not required if
– screened insulated heating wires are covered with a sheath complying with 21.103;
– the additional electrical insulation complies with the test of 21.102;
c) when heating units having basic insulation only, other than those supplied at safety
extra-low voltage, are provided with additional electrical insulation, this additional
insulation is to be placed directly on the heating unit;
d) class II heating units are to be installed at a distance of at least 30 mm from conductive
parts of the building, such as water pipes.

NOTE These instructions apply to applications where the concrete or similar material is laid on a timber floor.
7.12.102 The instructions for applications in metallic ceilings or metallic floors for heating
units with basic insulation only, other than those supplied at safety extra-low voltage, shall
state that
a) the flexible sheet heating element is to be fully covered by the ceiling or floor;
b) the metallic parts of the ceiling or floor are to be earthed. The instructions shall state that
they have to be fitted with terminals suitable for the connection of two conductors each
having a nominal cross-sectional area of 2,5 mm and explain how the connection to the
earthing terminal is to be made to ensure a low resistance. The statements regarding the
need for earthing are not required if it is stated that a layer of additional electrical
insulation is to be installed between the heating unit and the ceiling. If this insulation is
not provided, the name of the manufacturer and reference of the insulation shall be given.
7.12.103 The instructions for applications on floors where the heating units are to be
covered by tiles shall state that the heating units are to be covered by additional electrical
insulation, unless the heating units are class I, class II or class III.
7.12.104 The instructions for flexible sheet heating elements that can be cut on site shall
state that this work is only to be carried out by persons authorized by the manufacturer and
shall give information on how to
– cut the flexible sheet heating elements;
– protect the edges of the flexible sheet heating elements;
– connect the supply leads and the interconnection leads, and insulate the connections.
7.12.105 The instructions for heating units for storage heating applications shall specify
the rated charging period.
7.12.106 Unless heating units
– incorporate a metallic shield or braid having a resistance per unit length equivalent to that
of 0,5 mm copper wire; or
– are of class III; or
– consist of a base material on which metallically screened electrically insulated heating
wires are fixed and are for application in walls below a height of 1,2 m,
their instructions shall state that the heating units shall be of the type constructed with an
electrical conductive screen. The heating unit shall be installed so that the screen is towards
the covering material.
The instructions for heating units which are for application in walls below a height of 1,2 m
and with a separate electrical conductive screen shall state that the screen shall be placed
between the covering material and the heating unit.
The instructions for heating units which are for application in walls, shall state that the
heating unit shall be installed:
– between 0,2 m and 1,2 m above the floor; or
– above 2,3 m above the floor.
The screen is to be connected to the earthing conductor of the fixed installation.
If the heating unit is installed in an internal wall with the distance between the wall materials
less than 50 mm, the heating unit shall be installed so that the screen is towards the wall
covering material on both sides of the heating unit.

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The instructions for heating units with detachable protection circuit shall give instructions
for their installation.
7.14 Modification:
The test with petroleum spirit is not carried out.
Addition:
If symbols are used relating to the intended installation or heating mode, the superimposed
rectangle shall have a height of at least 15 mm.
7.15
...