International Safety Standard for Lighting Updated
New requirements for surface temperatures and thermal protection aim to improve safety for home lighting systems.
Updated on Oct. 2, 2026 in Appliances
The International Electrotechnical Commission has published the third edition of the IEC 60598-2-24 standard for luminaires with limited surface temperatures. This update replaces the 2013 version and applies to light sources with supply voltages up to 1000 V.
Why it matters
This update sets stricter safety requirements to reduce the risk of ignition when lighting is placed near combustible dusts or deposited materials. By mandating better thermal protection for controlgear, the new standard helps minimize fire hazards associated with home lighting.
The new IEC 60598-2-24:2026 standard covers luminaires with limited surface temperatures, excluding those designed for use in explosive gas or dust environments. It aligns its structure with IEC 60598-1:2024 to provide consistent safety requirements.
The players
International Electrotechnical Commission
An international organization that prepares and publishes global standards for all electrical, electronic, and related technologies.
The details
The updated standard introduces specific mandates for the thermal protection of built-in controlgear within lighting fixtures. By aligning clause numbers and technical structures with the broader IEC 60598-1 framework, the update ensures that thermal requirements are better integrated. These changes are designed to address the persistent risk of ignition when dust or other materials accumulate on light surfaces.
Timeline
The previous edition of the standard was published in 2013.
The third edition of the standard was published on October 2, 2026.
The Home Front
This revision follows the precedent of updating global electrical standards to account for modern material safety and thermal risks. It serves as an update to the established IEC 60598-1 lighting safety framework.
Check your home lighting fixtures for dust accumulation, especially in areas where light sources are near surfaces that collect debris. If you are planning a renovation that involves new lighting installations, ask your licensed electrician about fixtures that meet the latest thermal safety standards.
The takeaway
Maintaining clean surfaces around your home lighting is a critical step in preventing ignition from accumulated dust or debris. Always consult a licensed professional for any work involving the installation or replacement of built-in electrical lighting systems.
Further reading
Learn more about evolving home safety benchmarks in our Appliances section.
More information
Review the full technical specifications on the IEC standard publication page.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Iec.
