What is IEC 60335-3-19?

IEC 60335-3-19, also known as the International Electrotechnical Commission's Standard for Safety of Household and Similar Electrical Appliances, is a technical standard that focuses specifically on the safety requirements for electric infant swings.

Why is it important?

The purpose of IEC 60335-3-19 is to establish safety guidelines for manufacturers, retailers, and consumers in order to mitigate potential risks associated with using electric infant swings. This standard ensures that these products are designed, manufactured, and tested to meet specific safety criteria, thus reducing the chances of accidents or harm to infants.

Key requirements of IEC 60335-3-19

The standard outlines several key requirements that manufacturers must follow to comply with safety regulations. Some of the main requirements include:

Electrical Safety: The swing should be designed to prevent electrical hazards such as short circuits or electric shocks. Proper insulation, grounding, and protection against moisture are critical aspects.

Mechanical Stability: The swing should exhibit stability when subjected to expected use and foreseeable misuse. It should be able to support the weight of an infant without tipping over or becoming unstable.

Minimum Gaps: The gaps between different components of the swing should not pose any risk of injury to the child. There are specific requirements concerning finger entrapment, head entrapment, and other potential hazards.

Durability and Construction: The materials used in the construction of the swing should be durable, free from sharp edges or protrusions, and able to withstand normal use without degradation or failure.

User Instructions: Clear and comprehensive instructions should be provided to the user, including guidelines for installation, usage, and maintenance of the electric infant swing.

Compliance and Certification

Manufacturers of electric infant swings must ensure that their products comply with IEC 60335-3-19. Compliance can be achieved through rigorous testing by accredited laboratories, which evaluate if the swings meet all requirements specified in the standard. Once compliance is established, manufacturers can obtain certification from relevant authorities or certification bodies. This certification assures consumers that the product has undergone necessary testing and meets the safety standards outlined in IEC 60335-3-19.

In conclusion, IEC 60335-3-19 plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety of electric infant swings. By adhering to the requirements outlined in this standard, manufacturers can produce reliable and safe products, and consumers can make informed choices while purchasing these devices for their infants.