IEC 60598-2-22 is the international standard for emergency luminaires—including battery-backed exit signs and emergency lights. If you’re operating in a global market or importing lighting systems, this guide breaks down what IEC 60598-2-22 means and how it aligns with UL and NFPA requirements.
View the Full U.S. State-by-State Fire Code Guide🌐 What Is IEC 60598-2-22?
IEC 60598-2-22 is a section of the international luminaire safety standards developed by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). It specifically applies to emergency luminaires powered by batteries or alternate sources during power outages.
It’s the global equivalent of UL 924 in the United States and covers performance, installation, labeling, and testing for emergency lighting systems.
🚨 Why IEC 60598-2-22 Compliance Matters
- Ensures emergency lighting activates automatically during power loss
- Sets global safety expectations for duration, light output, and labeling
- Supports international building compliance and CE certification
- Helps align U.S. systems with global export or import requirements
If your fixtures are being shipped globally or used in facilities designed to international codes, this standard is a must.
📏 Key Requirements of IEC 60598-2-22
- Minimum of 1 hour of emergency illumination (some local rules require 90 minutes)
- Must provide sufficient light to allow safe evacuation
- Light source must remain functional throughout rated duration
- Clear identification labels, charging indicators, and test mechanisms
These fixtures are tested for temperature resistance, electrical isolation, ingress protection, and mechanical durability.
🔄 IEC vs UL 924
- UL 924: U.S. standard with 90-minute duration and higher brightness thresholds
- IEC 60598-2-22: Globally used, compatible with CE-marked systems
Many manufacturers create dual-certified products for both North American and international distribution.
🌍 Where IEC 60598-2-22 Applies
- International airports and transit hubs
- Manufacturing plants operating under ISO standards
- European Union and CE-marked construction
- Data centers, hospitals, and logistics facilities worldwide
Even if you’re U.S.-based, imported fixtures must often meet both UL and IEC standards.
❓ IEC 60598-2-22 FAQ
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Is IEC 60598-2-22 required in the U.S.?
No, but it may be recognized for imported products or multinational projects. -
Does it replace UL 924?
Not in the U.S.—UL 924 remains the standard for U.S. code compliance. -
Can fixtures meet both standards?
Yes, many global manufacturers certify for both UL and IEC standards.
📚 Helpful Resources
🧠 Final Thoughts
IEC 60598-2-22 gives building professionals a globally recognized benchmark for emergency lighting safety. Whether you're specifying signs for an international airport or distributing products abroad, this standard provides clarity, consistency, and confidence in emergency egress performance.