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Advancing the Sustainable Development Goals through standardization
The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development is a call to action to make the world a safer, more peaceful and prosperous place, for all.To achieve this, in 2015, United Nations Member States adopted 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The risks of connected lives
Securing devices and data on the internet of thingsTurn on the radio, set the timer for dinner, turn down the temperature, shut off the lights. With the internet of things (IoT), all of this is possible from the comfort of the couch or while sitting on the bus. As noted by a New York Times journalist, IoT makes homes, offices and vehicles “smarter, more measurable and chattier”.
Protecting supply chains against cyber attacks
Cyber resilience can only be achieved by focusing both on information and operational technologiesIn recent months, a number of international studies and reports have highlighted an alarming increase in cyber attacks targeting the supply chain. One such survey, conducted in the Americas, Asia and Europe, suggests that in the past year two thirds of companies have experienced a cyber attack on their supply chain.
Recognizing exceptional achievements
2018 Thomas A. Edison Awards laureatesEvery year, the IEC pays tribute to people from its organization, for their distinguished work and commitment to improving the safety, compatibility and energy efficiency of electrical products and systems, with its Thomas Edison Award.
A belt and braces approach to cyber security
A holistic strategy, combining best practices with testing and certification, is the best way to build cyber resilience.We use the expression “belt and braces” to mean that we are being extra careful about something. The idea is that if our belt breaks unexpectedly, our braces will ensure that our trousers stay up.
Invaluable support for developing countries
IEC Affiliate Country Programme encourages active participation in IEC workEach year sees an increase not only in the number of countries participating in the IEC Affiliate Country Programme but also in the number of International Standards adopted as national ones, national electrotechnical committees (NECs) established and Affiliate Plus status granted. In the past 12 months, the Programme has seen changes in its leadership, and the Secretariat has been extremely busy supporting participating countries through workshops, seminars, webinars and training sessions, to name but a few of the activities organized to raise awareness and know-how in developing countries.
IECEE work benefits the environment, workplace and homes
Testing and certification can save energy and make life saferEvery day, whether at home, in the workplace, hospitals, airports or other public places, we come into contact with many devices and their operating systems, which we expect should function safely and reliably.
Cyber security for supply chains: as strong as the weakest links
Supply chains vulnerabilities make them targets of choice for attacksAs up to 80% of cyber breaches may originate in supply chains, protecting these is an absolute priority for all organizations. Industrial and critical infrastructure assets are most at risk. The IEC has developed many Standards for these. It works also on conformity assessment (CA) and global certification schemes through Working Groups (WGs) set up by its Conformity Assessment Board (CAB) and by the Certification Management Committee (CMC) of IECEE, the IEC System for Conformity Assessment Schemes for Electrotechnical Equipment and Components. Both should help better protect supply chains.
2018 IEC Awards
Recognizing excellence and commitment to IECEvery year IEC honours the commitment and work of a number of individuals in its community who, through their leadership and technical expertise, have contributed to making products and electrical systems safer, more energy efficient, more reliable and more compatible.
Staying one step ahead
Cyber security and the role of International StandardsInnovation brings new challenges – or, put another way, every silver lining has a cloud. While the Internet has given us connected, smart and interactive technologies, it has also spawned the murky, underground world of cyber crime.
A new era for solar PV
Technology cost reductions contribute to global growth of photovoltaic power applicationsThe International Energy Agency (IEA) Renewables 2017 Report highlights that new solar photovoltaic (PV) capacity grew globally by 50% in 2016, reaching over 74 GW. It also notes the significant point that for the first time, solar PV additions rose faster than any other fuel, surpassing the net growth in coal.
Don’t be a fool, follow the rule
e-tech talks with Dr Ulrich Spindler, IEC Vice-President and Chair of CABFor more than half his life, Ulrich Spindler has participated in standards development and conformity assessment (CA) activities, at the German, European and international levels. Between 2002 and 2007, he was President of CENELEC , the European Committee for Electrotechnical Standardization, and since 1 January 2015, he has been Chair of the Conformity Assessment Board (CAB) and IEC Vice-President, the first time that a German national has occupied these roles. As his assignment comes to an end, he shares with e-tech what has motivated him and why his company participated in standardization in the first place.
Quality assurance is vital for global PV market growth
IRENA report emphasizes role of international standardsBy 2030, total installed PV capacity could range between 1 760 gigawatts (GW) and 2 500 GW. However, if market growth is to remain sustainable, the technology must be enhanced, and the risk for investors, policy makers and consumers reduced, according to a recent report by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA).
Improving relevance and efficiency
CAB Chair shares key decisions and developmentsHighlights of the IEC Conformity Assessment Board (CAB) meeting, which took place during the 81th IEC General Meeting in Vladivostok, Russian Federation.
Recognizing exceptional achievements
2017 Thomas A. Edison Awards laureatesEvery year, the IEC pays tribute to people from its organization, for their distinguished work and commitment to improving the safety, compatibility and energy efficiency of electrical products and systems, with its Thomas Edison Award.
Digitization: direct impact on standardization
IEC must seize opportunities and address challengesIn his address to Council, Frans Vreeswijk, IEC General Secretary & CEO, reminded the audience that digitization is a key focus for both industry and standards organizations. Standards will play a key role in the digitization of industry, healthcare and every other part of our life. The new Masterplan, approved and published prior to the General Meeting in Vladivostok, Russia, sets the goals and expectations for the Commission, in this area among others, for the years to come.
Plugged in safely
It’s all about trustThe home appliance industry is booming and is expected to generate USD 590 billion by 2020, according to Statista, a market research company.
In the home stretch
Wearables are getting increasingly stretchable, small and smartFrom smart clothes to talking cows: the IEC prepares Standards for the latest wearable applications.
2017 IEC Awards
Recognizing excellence and commitment to the IECEvery year the IEC honours the commitment and work of a number of individuals in its community who, through their leadership and technical expertise, have contributed to making products and electrical systems safer, more energy efficient, more reliable and more compatible.
Helping prevent a cyber nightmare
With daily cyber attacks on the increase and reaching all areas, IEC work is essential to prevent or, fails this, mitigate their impactStandardization work by the IEC technical committees (TCs) and subcommittees (SCs), and by the Joint Technical Committee (ISO/IEC JTC 1) set up by the IEC and the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), is meant to prevent and mitigate the catastrophic impact of cyber attacks on parts of the critical infrastructure everywhere. In addition, IECEE, the IEC System for Conformity Assessment Schemes for Electrotechnical Equipment and Components, is working on a generic conformity assessment (CA) model which can be applied to cyber security.
Strengthening participation
IEC Affiliate Country Programme committed to provide invaluable support to developing countriesEach year sees an increase not only in the number of countries participating in the IEC Affiliate Country Programme but also in the number of International Standards adopted as national ones, national electrotechnical committees (NECs) established and Affiliate Plus status granted. In the past 12 months, the Affiliate Secretariat has been extremely busy supporting participants in the Programme through workshops, seminars, webinars and training sessions, to name but a few of the support activities organized to raise awareness and know-how in developing countries.
The importance of testing against International Standards
Everyone benefits from using efficient, safe products and servicesToday, many devices and services found in homes, hospitals, the workplace and industry run off electricity. Such machines and equipment can be dangerous if they malfunction, causing explosions, fires or electrocuting users or anyone who comes into contact with them, in addition to damaging property.
Energy efficiency to recover power for the future
IEC work helps tap the biggest pool of available energyEnergy efficiency (EE) is the most important and easily available source of energy; it can be collected along the entire energy chain, from generation, transmission and storage to final use in industry, homes or transportation. IEC standardization and conformity assessment (CA) work are central to electrical EE at all levels.
Morocco steps up standardization activities
COMELEC Forum emphasizes need for active participation in IEC workThe IEC National Committee of Morocco (COMELEC), held a successful forum to enhance stakeholder awareness of IEC Conformity Assessment Systems in Casablanca, in May.
Wear your health on your sleeve
Medical wearables push for innovationNew flexible and organic printing technologies are revolutionizing the medical wearable device market and the IEC is establishing the key relevant International Standards.
Growing the IEC next generation
Ongoing opportunities for IEC Young Professionals in IECEE, SMB and CAB groupsLearn more about how IEC Young Professionals are becoming involved in the technical work of the IEC.
Effective testing for hazardous substances in electronic equipment
Manufacturers use international IECEE service to show complianceElectrical and electronic equipment is part of our lives, from televisions, fridges and other appliances, to computers, printers and mobile phones.
Plug and play for refugees
Low-cost technologies are helping refugee camps get some basic comfortsAccess to clean and affordable energy for all is a sustainable development goal for the United Nations and the IEC is contributing to the effort with a number of its International Standards. While access to electricity remains an issue for many of the world’s poorest, refugee camps are finding that cheap solar energy is a way of overcoming the odds.
Energy Efficiency starts at home
Manufacturers address energy usage in home appliancesToday, numerous machines and devices powered by electricity can be found in our homes. Take, for example, the kitchen. This room alone probably has a dishwasher, an oven and a fridge, not to mention an array of smaller appliances for preparing and cooking food.
Nailing safety
Products tested to international standards instil confidencePower tools are lighter, perform better and last longer, thanks to improved cordless battery technology, benefiting professionals in manufacturing, aerospace, automotive and construction, and amateurs alike. This booming global industry is expected to post revenues of more than USD 34 billion by 2020, according to market research by Technavio.
Better to blow a fuse
Checking a critical part of electrical system reliabilityEver run the washing machine, ironed a shirt and blown a fuse?
The technology that runs smart homes
Electronic controls are increasingly used to operate home appliancesWe are all familiar with remote controls. We use them to change TV channels, select our favourite music and protect ourselves with sophisticated security systems. Still, more appliances and systems in our homes work by using automated electronic controls.
Portable medical devices radically change healthcare delivery
Wireless technology is revolutionizing the way we approach chronic diseases and other health-related conditionsIn our mobile world, portable smart devices keep us connected and able to access information anytime, anywhere. The healthcare industry has also embraced connected technology in the form of medical wearables and portable devices. These offer accurate real-time monitoring, diagnosis and tailored treatment of conditions, such as some types of diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
A year of brand building and increasing visibility
IEC General Secretary addresses CouncilDuring his address to Council, IEC General Secretary and CEO Frans Vreeswijk highlighted the main achievements since Minsk and talked about important ongoing projects.
Keeping our powered lives safe
IECEE offers an efficient system for testing the quality, performance and energy use of many electronic devicesFrom the smartphone alarm first thing in the morning to switching off the lights last thing at night, many products and systems in our daily lives run off electricity. We use the hairdryer, washing machine, stove, get on and off transport and walk through automated doors at the office, take the elevator, fire up the computer and purchase items online, expecting that everything will work reliably and safely.
Our battery-powered world
International Standards and testing help keep batteries safe and reliableMany items we use on a daily basis require battery power, such as tablets, laptops, medical devices, toothbrushes, gaming hardware or power tools. They enable our ever-increasing mobility - batteries power e-bikes, the starter, lights, and ignition systems of electric and fuel powered vehicle engines, and they start the engines or auxiliary power units of planes.
The off-grid solar revolution
Off-grid solar powered products are booming and giving millions of people access to electricityWe don’t think twice about using lights at home during the day or after dark. We have also got used to charging our smart phones wherever we are – at the airport, on a train or in the office – so that we can make online purchases, read the news, send messages, do banking or make a call. When we forget our phones or there is a blackout for an hour and we can’t watch television, use the computer or boil the kettle, we find it very annoying, but imagine if this were the norm.
Curbing electricity consumption
A globally harmonized programme for motor efficiencyElectric motors have many uses, in heavy industry, hospital generators, power tools, pumps to clean swimming pools, and many transport vehicles. Yet, they are the single biggest users of electricity, driving pumps, fans and other machines.
Medical equipment in the digital era
How to ensure safety of state-of-the-art medical equipmentPeople live longer today than ever before. There are however major variations in life expectancy between continents and countries. Even within a given country, there may be differences between wealthier and poorer regions.
Power to the people
Be energy efficient, make a differenceOn the one hand, energy efficiency is a new way of life that requires behavioural changes on the consumer’s part. On the other, the pressure is on the manufacturers of electrical equipment and devices to produce goods that consume as little energy as possible.
You are the IEC
IEC General Secretary addresses CouncilDuring his address to Council, the IEC General Secretary & CEO, Frans Vreeswijk, provided a brief overview of key accomplishments since Tokyo and drew the audience’s attention to a number of topics of high importance for the future relevance of the Commission.
Obituary - Ron Collis
IECEE Chairman passed away on 10 November 2015It is with immense sadness and regret that we have to inform the IEC community of the tragic death of IECEE Chairman Ron Collis on 10 November 2015. Ron Collis had been the victim of an unfortunate accident a month ago and never woke from a deep coma. He leaves behind his wife Marion.
IEC, IAF and ILAC join forces
Tripartite Memorandum of Understanding prolongs collaboration for the next three-yearThe IEC has had a tradition of cooperating with other standardization and conformity assessment (CA) organization for many years. In addition to the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), with which it forms the World Standards Cooperation (WSC), one of the Commission’s main partners is the World Trade Organization (WTO) in the context of the Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Agreement. These are but a few of the 180+ bodies with which the IEC has close links.
Long-term commitment to safety
IECEE: 30 years of experience in testing and certification of electrical and electronic equipmentThe number of CB Certificates issued by members of IECEE, the IEC System of Conformity Assessment Schemes for Electrotechnical Equipment and Components, keeps increasing each year and is again expected to break the 80 000 mark at the end of 2015. Add to that the successful and fruitful collaboration with international organizations, the outreach to developing countries and the introduction of new programmes and you have confirmation that IECEE is THE global certification system for electrical and electronic products. In 2015, IECEE is celebrating its 30th anniversary!
Light up, light up!
IEC support for the International Year of LightSwitching on a light is such a routine task that we often take it for granted, however for millions of people worldwide, this is far from the case. The IEC is delighted to be associated with the global initiative, International Year of Light, adopted by the United Nations under the patronage of UNESCO.
Energy-efficient living
IECEE certification targets energy efficiencyHow many electrical appliances and devices do we rely on in any one day? From the lights that we switch on, to the hair dryer, oven and television at home and the computer in the office, most of the tasks we accomplish require the assistance of electrical devices. And then there are the appliances that run 24 hours a day, seven days a week: refrigerators and heaters, for example.
Switched on to safety
IECEE helps build strong consumer confidenceWhen buying a new electrical appliance, who pays much attention to the cord – or to the control switch, for that matter? Customers tend to focus on the design, the look, the size, the price or the overall performance of the product. Cords and switches, seen as necessary appendages that don’t merit close examination, are seldom, if ever, part of the decision-making process that leads to the purchase of household goods. Consumers usually take it for granted that the device they acquire is safe and reliable, and will perform without any problems.
Safety on the factory floor
IECEE certification brings benefits to industrial automationThe development of automation throughout the 20th century brought enormous changes to the industrial world: some jobs disappeared, others underwent major transformation, new ones were created and, most importantly, the interaction between man and machine was altered forever. In recent years, the emergence and proliferation of robots on the factory floor has raised automation to a new level.
How to accelerate EV adoption
Certification to boost buyer confidence in EV range and technologiesAlthough many automotive manufacturers have added EVs (electric vehicles) to their product lines in recent years, they remain very much a niche market, albeit one that is dynamic and developing steadily. And while potential buyers may still be somewhat concerned by the short range and long charges generally associated with EVs nowadays, industry is striving to come up with innovative solutions to remedy these problems.
Have you ever been shocked?
Some simple rules and useful tools that protect against electric shockWho among you hasn’t at least once in your life received an electric shock, for example while changing a light bulb? In most cases you don’t feel much and it has no serious consequences. So much so that you will not do anything about it once the new light bulb is in place. That’s where the problem starts. An electric shock is a first sign that something may be defective in the electrical installation of the building.
Safe lighting for everyone, everywhere
IECEE certification of great value to industry and consumers alikeFor many of us, switching a light on or off is such a routine task that we take it for granted. With the exception of extreme situations – major power outages – we’ve never had to worry about lighting in our homes offices, factories, streets, and so forth. But there are still millions of people with limited or no access to electricity who don’t have that privilege. The United Nations have declared 2015 the International Year of Light to raise awareness on the central role played by light-based technologies in providing solutions to global challenges in energy, education, agriculture and health.
Shaping the future
IEC CAB focuses on the evolution of IEC Conformity AssessmentHighlights of the IEC CAB (Conformity Assessment Board) meeting that took place in Tokyo, Japan, during the 78th IEC General Meeting.
Safety first
Paving the way to safer electronic equipmentThe theme of this year’s Workshop for Industrializing Countries was "Challenges to Ensure Safety of Electronic Equipment". Held during the IEC General Meeting in Tokyo, Japan, the meeting aimed to facilitate the sharing of experiences and help highlight solutions to a particularly pertinent issue for developing countries.
A quiet force
Tribute to Hiromichi Fujisawa, IEC Vice-President and CAB ChairmanHiromichi Fujisawa, IEC Vice President and Chairman of CAB (Conformity Assessment Board) will step down at the end of 2014. Under his competent and thoughtful leadership IEC CA (Conformity Assessment) Systems have become stronger expanding their portfolio to better serve industry. A new CA System, IECRE, saw the light of day and will serve the needs of the renewable energy industry, in particular wind, marine and solar PV, and a new governance structure will provide a strong basis for the future. Fujisawa has left his mark on the IEC and the IEC CA Systems in many positive ways.
A leader in its field
IECEE is a truly international partner for the electrical and electronic industryThe number of CB Certificates issued by members of the IECEE (IEC System of Conformity Assessment Schemes for Electrotechnical Equipment and Components) keeps increasing each year (more than 80 000 in 2013). Add to that the successful and fruitful collaboration with international organizations, the outreach to developing countries and the introduction of new services and product categories and you have confirmation that IECEE is THE global certification system for electrical and electronic products.
Protection against electromagnetic effects
Specific IECEE EMC programme ensures safety and reliability of electrical and electronic devicesLightning is a huge natural electrostatic discharge between electrically charged areas within a single cloud, from one cloud to another or between a cloud and the earth. The discharge is accompanied by a flash or strike, can result in serious injuries or fatalities when people are exposed to it, and can cause serious damage to equipment, installations and buildings when it hits the ground.
IECEE helps build customer confidence
Safe and reliable consumer goods for everyone, everywhereFast-evolving technologies and a wealth of electronic devices and equipment on the market have dramatically altered people’s lives in recent years. All facets of life have been affected by these changes; home chores, office and factory work, education, leisure activities and commercial endeavours have at some point all embraced a new technology.
What makes a person buy a certain type of equipment, a particular brand? What are the criteria that come into play?
Tackling cybersecurity threats
IECEE is developing the necessary strategy and business plan to minimize exposure to these risksThe development of automation throughout the 20th century brought enormous changes to the industrial world: some jobs disappeared, others underwent major transformations, new ones were created and, most importantly, the interaction between man and machine was altered forever. The rapid evolution of IT (information technology) in the second part of the 20th century enabled engineers to create increasingly complex control systems that integrated fully between the factory floor and the office environment.
Compatibility and interconnectivity
All power grids need IECEE certification for trouble-free operationElectricity is so deeply entrenched in our lives that we take it for granted…until there’s a power outage. Whether on a small or large scale, power outages may have dire social and economic consequences: no lights in homes, offices, public places; disruption of public transportation services; temporary factory shutdown, to name but a few. In recent years, major power outages have been able to paralyze whole regions or countries in North and South America, Europe and Asia. Can this happen again? Probably, but there are ways of ensuring that energy generation, transmission and distribution occurs in the safest, most reliable and efficient way possible.
Medical equipment advances at lightning speed
IECEE focuses on its safety and reliabilitySince 2007, IECEE (IEC System of Conformity Assessment Schemes for Electrotechnical Equipment and Components) has been managing the risks surrounding medical electrical equipment. Its task has become more important as technological changes and enhancements have radically increased the complexity of the sector.
Getting to know Kerry McManama
A mind open to all possibilitiese-tech talks to Kerry McManama, the new Executive Secretary and Chief Operating Officer of IECEE (IEC System of Conformity Assessment Schemes for Electrotechnical Equipment and Components) to find out how he arrived at this point and the challenges he sees in his new role.
Nightmare of a child chewing on a cord
IECEE Certification means safetyIt happens to every parent at some point. Your child is playing with her toys in the living room. You step out of the room for a minute, knowing that the room has been baby proofed, feeling confident that nothing could happen. Then you come back and see that your curious little one is chewing on the television cord. A raft of nightmare scenarios pass before your eyes as you imagine what could have happened while you were gone. Then you shake yourself and remove the cord from your child’s grasp. You are able to do this because IECEE, the IEC System of Conformity Assessment Schemes for Electrotechnical Equipment and Components, tests and certifies the safety of audio/video equipment.
Continued safety and strength
Kerry McManama joins IECEEIECEE, the IEC System of Conformity Assessment Schemes for Electrotechnical Equipment and Components, has a new Executive Secretary and Chief Operating Officer. Kerry McManama will assume this role on 1 January 2014. McManama, a US citizen, has been involved in Conformity Assessment almost since its beginning. His goal is to continue to ensure the safety of the products that are certified and tested by IECEE.
CAB report to IEC Council
Dr Hiromichi Fujisawa, IEC Vice-President and Chairman of CAB (Conformity Assessment Board) reported to the IEC Council.Fujisawa gave an update on CAB activities in the 12 months since the Oslo GM (General Meeting). He talked about the creation of IECRE, the new IEC CA (Conformity Assessment) System for renewable energies, presented the work of some of the CAB working groups and of the WT CAC (Wind Turbine Certification Advisory Committee). Furthermore Fujisawa provided insights into the process that is currently being undertaken to harmonize the basic rules of the three CA Systems, IECEE, IECEx and IECQ.
Testing and certifying
IECEE PSC Working Group 2A on Smart GridIECEE has a working group that is trying to satisfy the needs of industry in terms of Smart Grid. It is looking to help industry ensure that its products are safe, of high quality and interoperable.
Making the world a safer place
IECEE is an internationally trusted partnerThe last 12 months have been extremely successful and fruitful for IECEE, the IEC System of Conformity Assessment Schemes for Electrotechnical Equipment and Components. Increased collaboration with international organizations, outreach to developing countries and the introduction of new services and product categories have contributed greatly to confirming IECEE as the leading global certification system for electrical and electronic products.
Brighter, cleaner and cheaper lights
More efficient and robust technologies will benefit users and the environmentIn 2007, the International Energy Agency estimated that lighting accounted for just under 20% of electricity use worldwide. Public policies, reflecting environmental and energy saving concerns, are driving the global take-up of energy-efficient bulbs. The lighting industry's need for proper International Standards to ensure the safety and measure the performance of these bulbs is obvious and proceeding apace under the aegis of IEC TC (Technical Committee) 34: Lamps and related equipment, and its SCs (Subcommittees).
He did it his way
IECEE Executive Secretary and COO Pierre de Ruvo to step down end 2013IECEE Executive Secretary and COO Pierre de Ruvo will step down at the end of 2013. As in previous years, IECEE, the IEC System of Conformity Assessment Schemes for Electrotechnical Equipment and Components, held its annual series of meetings at the beginning of the summer, this time in Vancouver, Canada, from 17 to 21 June 2013. What distinguished this year’s gathering was the announcement that IECEE Executive Secretary and COO Pierre de Ruvo would step down at the end of the year.
Focus on industrial automation
IECEE launches INDAT, a new service for products and installations in the automation fieldThe development of automation throughout the 20th century brought enormous changes to the industrial world: some jobs disappeared, others underwent major transformations, new ones were created and, most importantly, the interaction between man and machine was altered forever. In the pre-automation era, machinery had been used to assist workers.
Trust is the keyword
IECEE leads the way in electromedical equipment safety and performanceA few weeks ago, as I underwent eye surgery, I realized that I was much more worried about the outcome than about the operation itself. Why was that? Given the numerous problems caused by poor eyesight since I was a kid, I had difficulties imagining a world that wasn’t hazy and out of focus, a world in which I would see sharp outlines and well-defined silhouettes. As for surgery, I had total confidence in the skills of my ophthalmologist. I trust him.
Supporting EV development
IECEE certification key to EV technologiesAlthough many automotive manufacturers have added EVs (electric vehicles) to their product lines in recent years, they remain very much a niche market, albeit one that is dynamic and developing steadily. And while potential buyers may still be somewhat concerned by the short range and long charges generally associated with EVs nowadays, industry is striving to come up with innovative solutions to remedy these problems.
Protection against electromagnetic effects
Specific IECEE EMC programme ensures safety and reliability of electrical and electronic devicesLightning is a huge natural electrostatic discharge between electrically charged areas within a single cloud, from one cloud to another or between a cloud and the earth. The discharge is accompanied by a flash or strike, can result in serious injuries or fatalities when people are exposed to it, and can cause serious damage to equipment, installations and buildings when it hits the ground.
IEC, IAF and ILAC increase cooperation
New tripartite Memorandum of Understanding is signedCooperation agreements with other standardization and conformity assessment bodies have been on the IEC agenda for many years. One such agreement, made between the Commission’s three CA (Conformity Assessment) Systems, IAF (International Accreditation Forum) and ILAC (International Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation) has proved highly rewarding, with levels of collaboration increasingly constantly.
Connecting people
IECEE celebrates WTO ITA 15th anniversaryThe past 15 years have seen the extraordinary growth of the ICT (Information and Communication Technology) sector. The emergence of mobile devices, and their immediate success in markets worldwide, has provided an additional boost to a sector that was already expanding rapidly.
One test, one standard, everywhere
IECEE Affiliate status explained to ASEAN member countriesIn an effort to establish a single market and production base with an aim to facilitate the free flow of goods, services and investment, ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) member countries are moving towards establishing the AEC (ASEAN Economic Community). The goal is to allow capital to flow more freely and to stimulate more equitable economic development, while reducing poverty and socio-economic disparities.
Taking developing countries onboard
IEC Affiliate Countries can participate in IECEE activities as observersStandardization and conformity assessment are complementary. While it is essential that products and systems comply with standards, this compliance has then to be verified and certified. This may be a given in industrialized countries; it is less obvious for developing and industrializing countries.
Fruitful IEC, ILAC and IAF cooperation
Canada’s SCC recognizes IECEE CB Scheme qualified laboratoriesWhen it was signed in October 2010, the MoU (Memorandum of Understanding) between IEC, ILAC(International Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation) and IAF (International Accreditation Forum) was seen as a cornerstone of enhanced collaboration for the three organizations involved. Now this agreement, which generated much interest in the CA (conformity assessment) community, is bearing more fruits.
Raising awareness
IEC speaks at UNIDO conformity assessment workshop for developing countriesWhile conformity assessment is a given in industrialized countries, the concept has not necessarily been fully integrated into developing economies. Recognizing the need to raise awareness and provide a better understanding of the specific requirements linked to standardization and conformity assessment activities, UNIDO (United Nations Industrial Development Organization) has been implementing a series of projects, tailored specifically for developing countries.
Electrical energy efficiency certified
New IECEE service is fully operationalHow many electrical appliances and devices do we rely on in any one day? From the lights that we switch on, to the hair dryer, oven and television at home and the computer in the office, most of the tasks we accomplish require the assistance of electrical devices. And then there are the appliances that run 24 hours a day, seven days a week: refrigerators and heaters, for example.
Pooling resources
IEC-OIML agreement helps reduce costs, time and complexity“If you cannot measure it, you cannot improve it”. Lord Kelvin, First IEC President.
What Lord Kelvin said more than a hundred years ago is still true. The technology of the 21st century may be a far cry from that of Lord Kelvin’s era, but metrology is still a key element of standardization and conformity assessment, essential to the work of the IEC and the OIML, the International Organization of Legal Metrology.
Switched on to safety
IECEE helps build strong consumer confidenceWhen buying a new electrical appliance, who pays much attention to the cable – or to the control switch, for that matter? Customers tend to focus on the design, the look, the size, the price or the overall performance of the product. They are likely to overlook other aspects and see the cable and the switches as necessary appendages that don’t merit close examination. They usually take it for granted that the device they acquire is safe and reliable, and will perform without any problems.
Safe batteries
Harmonization of safety requirements for batteries is underwayBatteries are used in numerous devices and their safety determines the lifespan and faultless operation of countless products. With converging technologies and the advent of horizontal standards comes the need to regularly review, compare and update the standards that define safety requirements in order to ensure that testing and conformity assessment processes are coordinated. This is what is currently happening for the standards issued by IEC TC 108 and IEC SC 21A.
Moving forward
IECEE developments to meet industry demandIECEE, the IEC System of Conformity Testing and Certification for Electro-technical Equipment and Components, is a truly international conformity assessment system. The IECEE CB Scheme opens up access to the global market, while the IECEE CB-FCS (Full Certification Scheme) takes testing and certification a step further with a complete factory inspection process. IECEE is also the exclusive provider of the PV (photovoltaic) Quality Seal and Quality Mark. Technological innovations and environmental issues have prompted the setting up of additional services to meet specific demands from industry and governments worldwide.
Industrial automation certified
IECEE responds to market demandFrom the wheel that helped transport heavy loads to the fire that provided heat, inventions and discoveries have made life much easier. The advent of electricity was a turning point in the industrial world. Automated operations were introduced that could be performed without the need for human intervention. The development of automation throughout the 20th century brought enormous changes: some jobs disappeared, others underwent major transformations and new ones were created.
High rise
Number of IECEE CB Test Certificates issued is growing fastIECEE, the IEC System of Conformity Assessment Schemes for Electrotechnical Equipment and Components, held its annual series of meetings in Istanbul, Turkey, during the last week of June 2011. IECEE Executive Secretary Pierre de Ruvo made a presentation on the System's activities over the past 12 months and highlighted the good results obtained by CB Test Certificates.
Certifying energy efficiency
Certifying energy efficiencyIn commercial and office buildings, energy is consumed by appliances and equipment, from computers and copiers to water coolers and lighting. Heating and cooling equipment – often out of sight – is another major source of energy consumption.
DIY and gardening made safer
IECEE at forefront in certification of portable electric toolsSunny days. Milder temperatures. No doubt spring is back. If you have a garden, it’s time to resume all the great outdoor activities the winter interrupted. Mowing the lawn, pruning the trees, fixing things around the house, uncovering and filling the pool (if you’re lucky enough to have one) and getting the barbecue ready are some of the tasks to be performed before you can relax and enjoy the good life in your garden.
Keep the engine running
Safety and performance of batteries certified by IECEEAs EVs (electric vehicles) make their comeback — they were first seen in the 1900s and then briefly in the 1970s — much of the focus is on batteries, their main power source. Fuel-powered and hybrid cars, trucks, buses, locomotives and aircraft also rely on batteries to start their engine or, in some cases, the APU (auxiliary power unit).
Reducing risks and injuries
IECEE tests essential in reducing risksIt is safe to assume that there is at least one electrical appliance in every room of your house or apartment. If nothing else, there is at least a lamp.