IEC 60598-2-20:2014

IEC 60598-2-20 ®
Edition 4.0 2014-11
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
NORME
INTERNATIONALE
Luminaires –
Part 2-20: Particular requirements – Lighting chains

Luminaires –
Partie 2-20: Exigences particulières – Guirlandes lumineuses

All rights reserved. Unless otherwise specified, no part of this publication may be reproduced or utilized in any form
or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying and microfilm, without permission in writing from
either IEC or IEC's member National Committee in the country of the requester. If you have any questions about IEC
copyright or have an enquiry about obtaining additional rights to this publication, please contact the address below or
your local IEC member National Committee for further information.

Droits de reproduction réservés. Sauf indication contraire, aucune partie de cette publication ne peut être reproduite
ni utilisée sous quelque forme que ce soit et par aucun procédé, électronique ou mécanique, y compris la photocopie
et les microfilms, sans l'accord écrit de l'IEC ou du Comité national de l'IEC du pays du demandeur. Si vous avez des
questions sur le copyright de l'IEC ou si vous désirez obtenir des droits supplémentaires sur cette publication, utilisez
les coordonnées ci-après ou contactez le Comité national de l'IEC de votre pays de résidence.

IEC Central Office Tel.: +41 22 919 02 11
3, rue de Varembé Fax: +41 22 919 03 00
CH-1211 Geneva 20 info@iec.ch
Switzerland www.iec.ch
About the IEC
The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) is the leading global organization that prepares and publishes
International Standards for all electrical, electronic and related technologies.

About IEC publications
The technical content of IEC publications is kept under constant review by the IEC. Please make sure that you have the
latest edition, a corrigenda or an amendment might have been published.

IEC Catalogue - webstore.iec.ch/catalogue Electropedia - www.electropedia.org
The stand-alone application for consulting the entire The world's leading online dictionary of electronic and
bibliographical information on IEC International Standards, electrical terms containing more than 30 000 terms and
Technical Specifications, Technical Reports and other definitions in English and French, with equivalent terms in 14
documents. Available for PC, Mac OS, Android Tablets and additional languages. Also known as the International
iPad. Electrotechnical Vocabulary (IEV) online.

IEC publications search - www.iec.ch/searchpub IEC Glossary - std.iec.ch/glossary
The advanced search enables to find IEC publications by a More than 55 000 electrotechnical terminology entries in
variety of criteria (reference number, text, technical English and French extracted from the Terms and Definitions
committee,…). It also gives information on projects, replaced clause of IEC publications issued since 2002. Some entries
and withdrawn publications. have been collected from earlier publications of IEC TC 37,

77, 86 and CISPR.
IEC Just Published - webstore.iec.ch/justpublished
Stay up to date on all new IEC publications. Just Published IEC Customer Service Centre - webstore.iec.ch/csc
details all new publications released. Available online and If you wish to give us your feedback on this publication or
also once a month by email. need further assistance, please contact the Customer Service
Centre: csc@iec.ch.
A propos de l'IEC
La Commission Electrotechnique Internationale (IEC) est la première organisation mondiale qui élabore et publie des
Normes internationales pour tout ce qui a trait à l'électricité, à l'électronique et aux technologies apparentées.

A propos des publications IEC
Le contenu technique des publications IEC est constamment revu. Veuillez vous assurer que vous possédez l’édition la
plus récente, un corrigendum ou amendement peut avoir été publié.

Catalogue IEC - webstore.iec.ch/catalogue Electropedia - www.electropedia.org
Application autonome pour consulter tous les renseignements
Le premier dictionnaire en ligne de termes électroniques et
bibliographiques sur les Normes internationales,
électriques. Il contient plus de 30 000 termes et définitions en
Spécifications techniques, Rapports techniques et autres
anglais et en français, ainsi que les termes équivalents dans
documents de l'IEC. Disponible pour PC, Mac OS, tablettes
14 langues additionnelles. Egalement appelé Vocabulaire
Android et iPad.
Electrotechnique International (IEV) en ligne.

Recherche de publications IEC - www.iec.ch/searchpub
Glossaire IEC - std.iec.ch/glossary
Plus de 55 000 entrées terminologiques électrotechniques, en
La recherche avancée permet de trouver des publications IEC
en utilisant différents critères (numéro de référence, texte, anglais et en français, extraites des articles Termes et
comité d’études,…). Elle donne aussi des informations sur les Définitions des publications IEC parues depuis 2002. Plus
projets et les publications remplacées ou retirées. certaines entrées antérieures extraites des publications des

CE 37, 77, 86 et CISPR de l'IEC.
IEC Just Published - webstore.iec.ch/justpublished

Service Clients - webstore.iec.ch/csc
Restez informé sur les nouvelles publications IEC. Just
Published détaille les nouvelles publications parues. Si vous désirez nous donner des commentaires sur cette
Disponible en ligne et aussi une fois par mois par email. publication ou si vous avez des questions contactez-nous:
csc@iec.ch.
IEC 60598-2-20 ®
Edition 4.0 2014-11
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
NORME
INTERNATIONALE
Luminaires –
Part 2-20: Particular requirements – Lighting chains

Luminaires –
Partie 2-20: Exigences particulières – Guirlandes lumineuses

INTERNATIONAL
ELECTROTECHNICAL
COMMISSION
COMMISSION
ELECTROTECHNIQUE
PRICE CODE
INTERNATIONALE
CODE PRIX S
ICS 29.140.40 ISBN 978-2-8322-1940-9

– 2 – IEC 60598-2-20:2014 © IEC 2014
CONTENTS
FOREWORD . 4
20.1 Scope . 6
20.2 Normative references . 6
20.3 Terms and definitions . 7
20.4 General test requirements . 7
20.5 Classification of luminaires . 7
20.5.1 General . 7
20.5.2 Protection against electric shock . 7
20.5.3 Protection against dust, solid objects and moisture . 8
20.6 Marking . 8
20.6.1 General . 8
20.6.2 Lighting chain marking . 8
20.6.3 Lighting chain and packing marking . 8
20.6.4 Packing or instruction marking . 8
20.7 Construction . 9
20.7.1 General . 9
20.7.2 Lampholders . 9
20.7.3 Terminal blocks . 10
20.7.4 Terminals and supply connections . 10
20.7.5 Gaskets . 10
20.7.6 Mechanical strength . 10
20.7.7 Lamp bridging devices . 10
20.7.8 Control units . 10
20.7.9 Lamp rotation . 11
20.7.10 Lamp insertion/withdrawal force . 11
20.7.11 Lamp mechanical requirements . 11
20.8 Creepage distances and clearances . 12
20.9 Provisions for earthing . 12
20.10 Terminals . 12
20.11 External and internal wiring . 12
20.11.1 General . 12
20.11.2 Cables for lighting chains . 12
20.11.3 Cord anchorage test . 13
20.11.4 Plugs and cable length . 13
20.11.5 Maximum length of extendable class II lighting chains . 13
20.12 Protection against electric shock . 13
20.12.1 General . 13
20.12.2 Divisible plug . 13
20.12.3 Electrification of decorations . 14
20.12.4 Contacts of push-in lampholders . 14
20.12.5 Blanking plugs . 15
20.13 Endurance tests and thermal tests . 15
20.13.1 General . 15
20.13.2 Test voltage . 15
20.13.3 Lamp bridging devices . 16

20.13.4 Short-circuit test of rectifier . 16
20.14 Resistance to dust, solid objects and moisture . 16
20.15 Insulation resistance and electric strength . 16
20.16 Resistance to heat, fire and tracking . 17
Annex A (normative) Requirements for interconnecting connectors for use in lighting
chains . 18
Bibliography . 20

Figure 1 – Example of a connector to a divisible plug for lighting chains . 14
Figure 2 – Example of test device suitable for checking security of lampholder contacts . 15

Table 1 – Cables for lighting chains . 12

– 4 – IEC 60598-2-20:2014 © IEC 2014
INTERNATIONAL ELECTROTECHNICAL COMMISSION
____________
LUMINAIRES –
Part 2-20: Particular requirements –
Lighting chains
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 60598-2-20 has been prepared by subcommittee 34D: Luminaires,
of IEC technical committee 34: Lamps and related equipment.
This fourth edition cancels and replaces the third edition (2010).
This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous
edition, where the requirements for rope lights (sealed lighting chains) have been removed and
are now dealt with in IEC 60598-2-21.

The text of this standard is based on the following documents:
FDIS Report on voting
34D/1145/FDIS 34D/1153/RVD
Full information on the voting for the approval of this standard can be found in the report on
voting indicated in the above table.
This publication has been drafted in accordance with the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2.
This standard is intended to be read in conjunction with IEC 60598-1 Luminaires – Part 1:
General requirements and tests.
In this standard, the following print types are used:
– requirements: in roman type;
– test specifications: in italic type;
– notes: in small roman type.
A list of all the parts in the IEC 60598 series, published under the general title Luminaires can
be found on the IEC website.
The committee has decided that the contents of this publication will remain unchanged until the
stability date indicated on the IEC web site under "http://webstore.iec.ch" in the data related to
the specific publication. At this date, the publication will be
• reconfirmed,
• withdrawn,
• replaced by a revised edition, or
• amended.
The contents of the Corrigendum 1 of December 2016 have been included in this copy.

– 6 – IEC 60598-2-20:2014 © IEC 2014
LUMINAIRES –
Part 2-20: Particular requirements –
Lighting chains
20.1 Scope
This part of IEC 60598 specifies requirements for lighting chains fitted with series, parallel or a
combination of series/parallel connected light sources for use either indoors or outdoors on
supply voltages not exceeding 250 V.
For combinations where rope lights (also known as sealed lighting chains) are included, see
IEC 60598-2-21.
Lighting chains provided with fixed or detachable attachments e.g. ornamental or decorative,
are considered to be covered by this standard.
For lighting chains fitted with lampholders of the push-in type, the appropriate requirements of
this standard applies.
NOTE 1 A Christmas tree lighting chain is an example of a lighting chain fitted with series or series/parallel
connected lamps. A chain for illuminating ski-tracks or promenades is an example of a lighting chain fitted with
parallel connected lamps.
For lighting chains with non-standardised lamps (e.g. lamps of the push-in type) the lamps are
regarded as a part of the lighting chain and consequently included in the testing.
NOTE 2 For products where the lighting chain is permanently fixed to a frame or pre-lit Christmas tree the relevant
clauses of IEC 60598-2-4 and/or IEC 60598-2-7 can also apply.
NOTE 3 In some countries the term "strings" is used instead of "chains".
NOTE 4 Candlestick luminaries are tested according to IEC 60598-2-4.
20.2 Normative references
The following documents, in whole or in part, are normatively referenced in this document and
are indispensable for its application. For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For
undated references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including any amendments)
applies.
IEC 60227-5:2011, Polyvinyl chloride insulated cables of rated voltages up to and including
450/750 V – Part 5: Flexible cables (cords)
IEC 60238, Edison screw lampholders
IEC 60245-4:2011, Rubber insulated cables – Rated voltages up to and including 450/750 V –
Part 4: Cords and flexible cables
IEC 60320 (all parts), Appliance couplers for household and similar general purposes
IEC 60529, Degrees of protection provided by enclosures (IP Code)
IEC 60598-1, Luminaires – Part 1: General requirements and tests

IEC 60906 (all parts), IEC System of plugs and socket-outlets for household and similar
purposes
IEC 61184, Bayonet lampholders
IEC 61347-2-11, Lamp controlgear – Part 2-11: Particular requirements for miscellaneous
electronic circuits used with luminaires
IEC 61347-2-13, Lamp controlgear – Part 2-13: Particular requirements for d.c. or a.c. supplied
electronic controlgear for LED modules
IEC 61984:2008, Connectors – Safety requirements and tests
ISO 4046-4:2002, Paper, board, pulps and related terms – Vocabulary – Part 4: Paper and
board grades and converted products
20.3 Terms and definitions
For the purpose of this document, the terms and definitions given in IEC 60598-1 as well as the
following apply.
20.3.1
lighting chain
luminaire comprising an assembly of series-connected lamps, parallel-connected lamps or
series/parallel-connected lamps and interconnecting insulated conductors
Note 1 to entry: For lighting chains with non-standardised lamps (e.g. lamps of the push-in type) the lamps are
regarded as part of the chain.
Note 2 to entry: For lighting chains with non-removable lamps, the lamps are regarded as part of the chain.
Note 3 to entry: A lighting chain may incorporate control devices (e.g. flasher units, see 20.7.8).
Note 4 to entry: Unless otherwise stated, references to lamps within this standard also refer to LEDs.
20.3.2
rope light
sealed lighting chain
lighting chain with non-replaceable light sources enclosed in a rigid or flexible insulating
translucent pipe or tube, sealed at the ends, with or without joints
Note 1 to entry: Covered by IEC 60598-2-21.
20.4 General test requirements
The provisions of Section 0 of IEC 60598-1 apply. The tests described in each appropriate
section of IEC 60598-1 shall be carried out in the order listed in this part of IEC 60598.
20.5 Classification of luminaires
20.5.1 General
Lighting chains shall be classified in accordance with the provisions of Section 2 of
IEC 60598-1 together with the requirements of 20.5.2 and 20.5.3.
20.5.2 Protection against electric shock
Lighting chains shall be classified as Class II or Class III.

– 8 – IEC 60598-2-20:2014 © IEC 2014
20.5.3 Protection against dust, solid objects and moisture
Lighting chains for outdoor use shall have a protective index IP 44 or higher.
20.6 Marking
20.6.1 General
The provisions of Section 3 of IEC 60598-1 apply together with the requirements of 20.6.2 to
20.6.4.
20.6.2 Lighting chain marking
The following information shall be marked on the lighting chain:
– rated voltage of the complete chain;
– rated wattage of the complete chain.
Where the information is on the cable, it shall be marked on a durable non-removable sleeve or
label.
20.6.3 Lighting chain and packing marking
The following marking shall be placed on the lighting chain and on the accompanying packing
of lighting chains for indoor use only.
– “FOR INDOOR USE ONLY”.
– As an alternative to the text, the lighting chain can be marked with the symbol
[SOURCE: IEC 60417-5957 (2004-12)]. The symbol shall be explained in the instructions.
NOTE In some countries (UK and Australia) national requirements are such that a plug must be fitted to a portable
appliance. In situations where this plug does not provide the same ingress protection of the lighting chain
information concerning the location of the plug/transformer may be given e.g. "Plug/transformer for indoor use
only".
20.6.4 Packing or instruction marking
The following or similar marking shall be placed on the accompanying packing or instructions.
a) For all lighting chains where the packing has not been adapted for display purposes:
– “Do not connect the chain to the supply while it is in the packing”.
b) For lighting chains with replaceable lamps:
– voltage and wattage or manufacturer's article number of replacement lamps;
– “Do not remove or insert lamps while the chain is connected to the supply”;
– “Ensure that all lampholders are fitted with a lamp”.
c) Lighting chains designed to be used without a lamp in every lampholder:
– adequate information about required blanking plug(s).
d) For chains with replaceable series-connected lamps:
– “Replace failed lamps immediately by lamps of the same type as delivered or of a type
specified by the manufacturer”.
e) For lighting chains with ‘fuse’ lamp(s):
– “Do not replace a ‘fuse’ lamp with a non-’fuse’ lamp”; in order to indicate the difference
from ‘ordinary’ lamps, ‘fuse’ lamps shall be partly coloured white;
– information indicating that the chain is provided with ‘fuse’ lamps and explanation of
their function.
f) For lighting chains with non-replaceable lamps:
– “The lamps are not replaceable”.
g) For class II lighting chains with non-replaceable lamps, the substance of the following:
– where breakage or damage to lamps occurs the chain must not be used/energised but
disposed of safely.
h) For lighting chains which rely on gaskets to provide the specified degree of protection
against dust, solid objects and moisture:
– “WARNING – THIS LIGHTING CHAIN MUST NOT BE USED WITHOUT ALL GASKETS
BEING IN PLACE”
i) For lighting chains intended for interconnection:
– “Do not interconnect parts of this lighting chain with parts of another manufacturer's
lighting chain”;
– “Interconnection shall be made only by the use of the supplied connectors. Any open
ends must be sealed-off before use”;
– maximum system length that may be interconnected;
– maximum number of lamps or max system wattage that may be interconnected.
j) For lighting chains incorporating lamp bridging device(s):
– information stating that the chain is fitted with a bridging device(s).
k) For class III lighting chains delivered without a supply source:
– relevant information concerning the required supply source.
l) For mains voltage lighting chains with series connected lamps:
– “WARNING – RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK IF LAMPS ARE BROKEN OR MISSING. DO
NOT USE”
20.7 Construction
20.7.1 General
The provisions of Section 4 of IEC 60598-1 apply together with the requirements of 20.7.2 to
20.7.11
20.7.2 Lampholders
In lighting chains where non-standardised lampholders (e.g. of the push-in type) are used, the
lampholders are regarded as parts of the lighting chain and tested accordingly.
Edison screw lampholders E5, E10, E14 and E27 shall meet the requirements of IEC 60238.
Bayonet lampholders shall meet the requirements of IEC 61184.
Insulation piercing terminals on lampholders are acceptable only if used in the SELV circuit of
lighting chains or as permanent, non-rewireable connections in class II chains.
E5 and E10 lampholders and similar small lampholders of the push-in type shall be used only if
the rated voltage of each lamp does not exceed:
– for E5 and similar small lampholders 25 V
– for series connected E10 lampholders 60 V
– for parallel connected E10 lampholders 250 V
Compliance is checked by inspection.

– 10 – IEC 60598-2-20:2014 © IEC 2014
Lampholders shall have a body of insulating material.
Compliance is checked by inspection.
20.7.3 Terminal blocks
Clause 4.6 of Section 4 of IEC 60598-1 referring to terminal blocks does not apply.
20.7.4 Terminals and supply connections
Clause 4.7 of Section 4 of IEC 60598-1 referring to terminals and supply connections applies
together with the following requirement.
Interconnecting connectors for lighting chains shall, in addition, comply with the requirements
and modifications given in Annex A.
Compliance is checked by inspection and by carrying out the tests of this standard.
20.7.5 Gaskets
Gaskets used to provide the specified degree of protection against dust, solid objects and
moisture of lighting chains for outdoor use shall be weather resistant. Such gaskets shall
remain in place on the chain when the lamp is removed and shall fit tightly round the inserted
lamp.
Compliance is checked by inspection and by manual test.
NOTE A test to verify the weather resistance of gaskets is under consideration.
20.7.6 Mechanical strength
Compliance with the mechanical strength requirements of Clause 4.13 of Section 4 of
IEC 60598-1 for Edison screw lampholders and small lampholders of the push-in type shall be
checked by the tests given in Clause 15 of IEC 60238. The free fall test specified for E5 and
E10 lampholders shall also apply for push-in lampholders.
For bayonet lampholders, the tests in Clause 15 of IEC 61184 apply.
The tests are made on three samples of the lampholder without the lamp inserted. After the
test, the relevant compliance requirements of Clause 4.13 of Section 4 of IEC 60598-1 shall be
met.
Accessories, for example plugs, interconnecting connectors, etc. incorporated in a lighting
chain shall comply with the mechanical requirements of 4.13.6 of IEC 60598-1.
20.7.7 Lamp bridging devices
Protection against electric shock and fire shall not be impaired when devices for bridging lamp
filaments in series connected chains are functioning.
Compliance is checked by inspection and, where appropriate, by the test of 20.13.3
20.7.8 Control units
Control units and similar devices forming an integral part of the lighting chain, shall be
enclosed in non-flammable insulating material. In addition they shall be securely fixed to the
cable of the chain.
Compliance is checked by inspection and, for the non-flammability of the insulating material, by
the tests of Clause 20.16.
Any electronic control device (e.g. flasher units) shall, in addition to the requirements of this
standard, comply with the requirements of IEC 61347-2-11.
LED-drivers shall comply with the requirements of IEC 61347-2-13.
Compliance is checked by carrying out the relevant tests.
20.7.9 Lamp rotation
The lamp (bulb) glass of push-in lamps shall not rotate in relation to the lamp cap, if any, and
the lamp cap, if any, shall not rotate in relation to the lampholder.
Compliance is checked by applying a torque of 0,025 Nm for 1 min between the glass envelope
and the lampholder. No displacement shall occur between the parts during the test.
20.7.10 Lamp insertion/withdrawal force
Replaceable push-in type lamps shall remain in the seated position when the lamp is subjected
to a pull force of up to 3 N. Replaceable push-in type lamps shall make electrical contact with
the lampholder contacts by applying a push-in force of up to 3 N. Withdrawal of the lamp from
the holder shall be effected when subjected to a pull force of between 3 N and 10 N.
Non-replaceable lamps shall withstand a pull force of 10 N ± 1 N during which the lamp shall
remain seated and shall not have become unsafe.
During each application of the specified forces no damage shall occur impairing safety and in
particular no breakage or separation of the lamp glass envelope from the lamp cap shall take
place.
Compliance is checked on three new samples, by manual test, by measurement of the forces
and by inspection.
The samples are then placed in an oven at a temperature of 120 °C ± 5 °C for 2 h, following
which it is allowed to cool down to room temperature. During this test, lampholders for
replaceable lamps are left empty.
The same three samples are then re-submitted to the same tests, requirements and
compliance criteria as those specified for the sample before the heating treatment. For
lampholders for replaceable lamps, the lamps are reintroduced by a push-in force of 5 N ± 1 N.
20.7.11 Lamp mechanical requirements
The lamps of Class II lighting chains shall be resistant to typical handling forces.
The bulb (envelope) of the following lamps shall be tested:
– non-removable lamps,
– non-standardized lamps.
Compliance is checked by the test of 4.13.1 of IEC 60598-1 using an impact energy of 0,2 Nm
and with the lamp held against a suitable rigid wooden board.

– 12 – IEC 60598-2-20:2014 © IEC 2014
20.8 Creepage distances and clearances
The provisions of Section 11 of IEC 60598-1 apply.
20.9 Provisions for earthing
The provisions of Section 7 of IEC 60598-1 do not apply.
20.10 Terminals
The provisions of Sections 14 and 15 of IEC 60598-1 apply.
20.11 External and internal wiring
20.11.1 General
The provisions of Section 5 of IEC 60598-1 apply together with the requirements of 20.11.2 to
20.11.4.
20.11.2 Cables for lighting chains
Subclause 5.2.2 of Section 5 of IEC 60598-1 is replaced by the following.
Internal and external cables for lighting chains shall not be lighter than those given in Table 1
and below.
Table 1 – Cables for lighting chains
a
Class II ordinary lighting chains 60227 IEC 52
a
Class II lighting chains other than ordinary 60245 IEC 57
b
Class III lighting chains and parts of chains supplied by SELV Insulation according to 5.3.1 of IEC 60598-1
a
The cable may consist of a single core cable provided with a two-layer insulation corresponding to the specified
standard sheet.
b
The insulation may consist of rubber or PVC

Compliance is checked by inspection and measurement.
The nominal cross-sectional area of the conductors shall provide adequate current-carrying
capacity and mechanical properties but shall not be less than the following values:
a) 0,5 mm for class II lighting chains;
b) 1,5 mm for class II lighting chains with E14, E27, B15 or B22 lampholders and fitted with
parallel-connected lamps;
c) 0,15 mm for class III lighting chains and parts of chains supplied by SELV;
for separate supply cables and extension cables for interconnection between
d) 1 mm
different parts of extendable class II lighting chains.
Compliance is checked by inspection and measurement.
For the mechanical properties the relevant requirements given in 4.14.1 and 4.14.2 of
IEC 60598-1 apply.
20.11.3 Cord anchorage test
For lighting chains incorporating a single-core cable, the test described in 5.2.10.1 of Section 5
of IEC 60598-1 is made in the following way.
The cable is subjected 25 times to a pull of 30 N. The torque test is not made.
For lighting chains fitted with screwless type terminals, the electrical connections are
disconnected without adversely affecting the efficiency of the cord anchorage function.
20.11.4 Plugs and cable length
Lighting chains for outdoor use shall either be provided with a splash-proof plug or be suitable
for permanent connection to fixed wiring by means of a junction box.
The length of the cable between the plug and the first lamp or lampholder shall be not less than
1,5 m.
Compliance is checked by measurement.
NOTE 1 National rules in some countries do not permit plugs in accordance with IEC 60083.
NOTE 2 In some countries (UK and Australia) national requirements are such that a plug must be fitted to a
portable appliance. In situations where this plug does not provide the same ingress protection of the lighting chain
information concerning the location of the plug/transformer may be given e.g. "Plug/transformer for indoor use
only".
20.11.5 Maximum length of extendable class II lighting chains
Extendable class II lighting chains shall be limited to a maximum length of:
cable;
– 100 m for systems using 0,5 mm
– 150 m for systems using 0,75 mm cable.
Compliance is checked by inspection and measurement.
20.12 Protection against electric shock
20.12.1 General
The provisions of Section 8 of IEC 60598-1 apply together with the requirements of 20.12.2 to
20.12.5.
20.12.2 Divisible plug
If the plug of a lighting chain incorporates a means for disconnecting one end of the chain to
facilitate installation, the connector fitted at the end of the cable shall have an entry such that
the diameter of the opening and the distance from the front to live parts are equal to the
corresponding dimensions specified in Figure 1. The two parts of the connector shall not
separate when subjected to a pull force of 10 N.

– 14 – IEC 60598-2-20:2014 © IEC 2014
Dimensions in millimetres
R = 1,5 max.
0,2
+
∅ 2,9
IEC
Figure 1 – Example of a connector to a divisible plug for lighting chains
Compliance is checked by a test with the standard test finger specified in IEC 60529.
20.12.3 Electrification of decorations
Lighting chains shall not electrify tinsel or other metallic decorations with which they are used.
Compliance shall be checked by means of a flat probe, 0,5 mm thick and 8 mm wide, with a
rounded tip having a radius of 4 mm. It shall not be possible to touch live parts with this probe,
when it is applied in any position with a force not exceeding 0,5 N, the chain being fitted with
the lamps with which it is delivered.
20.12.4 Contacts of push-in lampholders
Lampholder contacts in push-in lampholders shall be reliably secured in the lampholder body
by means other than friction to avoid a displacement of the lampholder contacts such that live
parts of the chain become accessible either through the bottom or top of the lampholder.
NOTE An example of an adequate securing method is by the provision of ears on the contacts of the lampholder.
Compliance is checked by inspection and by the following test.
Six lampholders are heated for 7 h according to the requirements of Clause 12.3 of Section 12
of IEC 60598-1 in an orientation to reach the highest temperature. After the lampholders have
cooled down to room temperature, the lamps are removed and a force of 15 N is applied for
1 min to each of the conductors connected. Following this, a force of 30 N is applied for 1 min
to the two conductors together. The forces are applied at a distance of 3 mm ± 0,8 mm from
the insertion points in the lampholder so as to try to move the contacts from the lampholders.

+0,5
5,8 min.
During the test the contacts shall not move more than 0,8 mm. An example of a device suitable
for this test is shown in Figure 2.
Dimensions in millimetres
Movable weight
Lampholder
Hinge pin
Support to raise lampholder so lever arm is
in horizontal position when force is first applied
Holdes for leads
Cut in arm to facilitate clamping of lampholder lead
IEC
Figure 2 – Example of test device suitable for
checking security of lampholder contacts
20.12.5 Blanking plugs
Where a lighting chain is designed to be used without a lamp in every lampholder, suitable
blanking plug(s) shall be provided to prevent access to live parts.
20.13 Endurance tests and thermal tests
20.13.1 General
The provisions of Section 12 of IEC 60598-1 apply together with the requirements of 20.13.2 to
20.13.3.
Lighting chains with an IP classification greater than IPX0 shall be subjected to the relevant
tests of Clauses 12.4, 12.5 and 12.6 of Section 12 of IEC 60598-1 after the test(s) of
Clause 9.2 but before the test(s) of Clause 9.3 of Section 9 of IEC 60598-1 specified in Clause
20.14 of this standard.
20.13.2 Test voltage
The provisions of 12.3.1 d) of IEC 60598-1 together with the following apply.
3 ± 0,8
– 16 – IEC 60598-2-20:2014 © IEC 2014
For class III chains supplied from an associated transformer/convertor, the test is carried out at
1,10 times the rated voltage of the transformer/convertor.
The provisions of 12.4.1 d) of IEC 60598-1 together with the following apply.
For class III chains supplied from an associated transformer/convertor, the test is carried out at
1,06 times the rated voltage of the transformer/convertor.
20.13.3 Lamp bridging devices
The operation of devices for bridging the lamp filament, where fitted in accordance with 20.7.7,
shall not cause any part of the lighting chain to attain a temperature which would impair safety.
Compliance is checked by causing the bridging device to operate successively on each lamp
until the complete set falls or until half the chain is bridged, whichever occurs first. The lamps
are not replaced during the test. The temperature of the component parts of the lighting chain
shall be allowed to stabilize before each bridging device is made to operate. The temperature
of lampholders and cables shall not exceed the appropriate values given in Tables 12.1 and
12.2 of IEC 60598-1 and eventual deformation shall not give access to live parts.
If a protective device (e.g. a ‘fuse’ lamp) operates during the test, the highest temperatures
reached shall be taken as the final temperatures.
20.13.4 Short-circuit test of rectifier
A class II or class III LED lighting chain incorporating a rectifier unit shall be subjected to the
following test.
The lighting chain is supplied with a voltage between 0,9 and 1,1 times the rated supply
voltage. The output of the rectifier is short-circuited. During this test there shall be no emission
of flames or molten material or production of flammable gases. Live parts shall not become
accessible.
Compliance. To check whether emission of flames or molten material might present a safety
hazard, the test specimen is wrapped with a tissue paper, as specified in 4.187 of
ISO 4046-4:2002, and shall not ignite.
20.14 Resistance to dust, solid objects and moisture
The provisions of Section 9 of IEC 60598-1 apply together with the following requirement.
For lighting chains with an IP classification greater than IP20, the order of the tests specified in
Section 9 of IEC 60598-1 shall be as specified in Clause 20.13 of this standard.
During the test the lighting chains are completely assembled ready for use, appropriate lamps
are inserted and the lampholders are positioned at random.
20.15 Insulation resistance and electric strength
The provisions of Section 10 of IEC 60598-1 apply together with the following.
During the measurement of the insulation resistance and the electric strength test the following
procedure applies:
– for lighting chains for outdoor use, the metal foil shall be completely wrapped over the
lampholder and the lamp;
– for lighting chains for indoor use with Edison screw lampholders tested according to
IEC 60238, or bayonet lampholders tested according to IEC 61184, the metal foil is only
wrapped on the lampholder near to the rim of the lampholder, but the lamp is not wrapped
with metal foil;
– for lighting chains with push-in lampholders, the metal foil shall be completely wrapped over
the lampholder and the lamp.
20.16 Resistance to heat, fire and tracking
The provisions of Section 13 of IEC 60598-1 apply, except that:
– for Edison lampholders, the tests of Clause 13 are replaced by the tests of Clause 20 of
IEC 60238 and for Bayonet lampholders the tests are replaced by the tests of Clause 19 in
IEC 61184.
– 18 – IEC 60598-2-20:2014 © IEC 2014
Annex A
(normative)
Requirements for interconnecting
connectors for use in lighting chains
This annex consists of relevant modifications to IEC 61984 to cover interconnecting connectors
used in lighting chains. Only the subclauses of IEC 61984:2008 referred to, including indicated
changes, in this
...