> Quick answer: The IEC 60598-2-3 standard governs the safety of outdoor luminaires, including solar lamps, ensuring they meet thermal and mechanical durability requirements at −25 °C through rigorous testing regimes [2][7].
Understanding how the IEC 60598-2-3 standard ensures safety for outdoor luminaires is crucial for manufacturers and consumers alike. This article delves into the specific tests that verify thermal and mechanical durability at −25 °C.
What Is the IEC 60598-2-3 Standard?
The primary standard governing outdoor luminaires, including solar-powered units, is IEC 60598-2-3, which specifies safety requirements for luminaires intended for outdoor use [2]. This standard is part of a broader series (IEC 60598) that addresses general safety for luminaires. Part 2-3 specifically focuses on luminaires for outdoor applications, ensuring they meet rigorous safety and performance criteria.
Thermal Safety Testing at −25 °C
Thermal safety testing for outdoor luminaires is governed by a combination of IEC 60598-1 and IEC 60598-2-3. These standards require the evaluation of temperature rise under both normal and abnormal operating conditions [2][7]. While the excerpts do not explicitly describe testing at −25 °C, relevant standards like IEC 60068-2-63 (Cold test) are referenced for assessing mechanical and structural integrity at low temperatures.
IEC 60068-2-63 specifies cold testing at −25 °C for 2 hours, followed by a mechanical impact test using a 250 g dead-weight hammer from multiple directions to verify the sturdiness of the casing [2]. This ensures that luminaires can withstand freezing conditions without failure.
Mechanical Safety Testing
Mechanical safety is reinforced through requirements for IP protection codes. IEC 60529 specifies IP 54 or higher for outdoor luminaires, ensuring resistance to dust and water ingress [2]. This is especially important in cold climates where freezing and thawing cycles can compromise seals and lead to internal condensation or component damage.
Dielectric strength and insulation resistance tests are also essential for preventing electric shock in wet or cold environments. These tests ensure that insulation materials do not become brittle or fail at −25 °C [2].
Environmental Stress Regime
Thermal and mechanical safety at −25 °C is not tested in isolation but as part of a broader environmental stress regime. The combination of cold testing, mechanical impact, IP protection, and dielectric testing ensures that luminaires remain safe and functional in harsh climates [2]. This integrated approach reflects the reality that outdoor luminaires must endure not just cold, but also thermal cycling, moisture, and physical impact.
System-Level Certification
Solar luminaires are evaluated as integrated systems rather than individual components. Safety testing covers multiple energy transformations: solar to electrical, electrical to chemical (battery), and back to electrical and light [18]. This complexity underscores the need for holistic standards like UL 8801, which is being developed to certify complete solar luminaire systems rather than individual components [12][21].
Key Takeaways
- IEC 60598-2-3 governs outdoor luminaires and ensures thermal and mechanical durability at −25 °C.
- Cold testing includes exposure to −25 °C for 2 hours, followed by impact tests using a 250 g hammer [2].
- IP protection codes (IP 54 or higher) ensure dust and water resistance in cold climates.
- System-level certification like UL 8801 is crucial for integrated solar luminaires.
Comparison of Outdoor Luminaire Standards
| Standard | Focus | Temperature Test |
| ––– | –– | –––––- |
| IEC 60598-2-3 | General Safety | Indirect via environmental stress regime [2][7] |
| UL 1598 | Luminaires | Wet location requirements [3][13] |
References
- [2] Standards_for_the_Load_-_energypedia__d16de21c — authority
source passage
temperatures will be tested according to IEC 60925, with five cycles between lowest and highest ambient temperature given by the manufacturer and 200 hours at maximum surface temperature (surface temperature may not exceed 80°C). – Suitability of construction and sturdiness of casing as of IEC 60068-2-63 or IEC 60335-1, section 21 with a 250 g dead stroke hammer from different directions, operational test of changing fuse and lamp without danger of injury. – IP protection code according to IEC 60529, IP 20 for solidly built indoor applications, otherwise IP 54. Safety tests according to IEC 60598 and IEC 60924: – Insulation resistance as of IEC 60598, section 10 and IEC 60924, sections 12 and 13 – Dielectric strength as of IEC 60598, section 10 and IEC 60924, sections 12 and 13 – Voltage impulses at electronic ballast as of IEC 60924, section 18 – Terminals as of IEC 60598, sections 14 and 15 – Safety earth terminal as of IEC 60924, section 9 – Creepage and clearance distances as of IEC 60924, section 10 for electronic ballast and section 11 for lighting system – Fault conditions at electronic ballast as of IEC 60924, section 14 – Abnormal operating conditions will be tested as of IEC 60924, section 19: • Removal of lamps • Non-igniting lamps • Reverse polarity of input voltage • Surge voltage of 26 V for 12 V system (52 V for 24 V system) as maximum open circuit voltage from PV generator – Screws, conductive components and connections as of IEC 60598, section 4 – Heat and fi
- [3] Landscape_and_Outdoor_Luminaire_Lighting_ULLighting_Performance_Testin__f858e2e3 — authority
source passage
supplied by a remote power unit or an integrated PV module, present no risk of electric shock injury they are subject to a far more abbreviated evaluation than their line voltage counterparts. Services to evaluate compliance to UL and CSA lighting standards We offer a full range of outdoor lighting testing and certification services, for both safety and performance, through our worldwide network of laboratories and engineering facilities. Line voltage luminaires Line voltage luminaires are evaluated for compliance to UL 1598, the Standard for Safety of Luminaires, including the applicable wet location requirements. These requirements are fully harmonized with the Canadian standard CSA C22.2 No. 250.0. Every UL certification project will provide for installation approval in both the U.S. and Canada. For enclosures made of polymeric material, additional evaluations are needed to assess their ability to retain integrity after exposure to ultraviolet light and very low temperatures. Additionally, many of these products are evaluated for ingress protection (IP) so they may be able to obtain an applicable IP rating per EN 60529, signifying the product’s ability to withstand penetration from moisture and dust. Low-voltage lighting certification Low voltage lighting can be evaluated as a complete system or as separate low voltage luminaires and power units. Over the past two decades, and increasingly with the expansion of LED technology, manufacturers have more commonly focused on ei
- [7] IEC_60598-12020__04a2d19c — authority
source passage
# IEC 60598-1:2020 Source: Blog/Web URL: https://webstore.iec.ch/en/publication/61414 Author: Date: 2010-02-05 IEC 60598-1 Revised – Revision of Clause 4.30, Fixing cover live parts of non-user replaceable light source; – Subclause 4.24.2, Blue Light Hazard: removal of Risk Group 0; – Subclause 5.2.16: additional requirements for AC mains appliance inlets related to IEC 61984; – Addition of Subclause 3.3.25, UV protection of cable; – Addition of Clause 4.34, Inclusion of EMF safety requirements (IEC 62493); – Revision of the requirements for functional earth and protective earth; – Addition of Clause 4.35, Protection against fast rotating parts; – Revision of Clause 3.2, Rated voltage marking; – Revision of Subclause 5.2.10, Cord anchorage; – Revision of Annex G for touch current and protective conductor current test set-up; – Addition of requirements for constant light output function and programmable current output; – Revision of Subclause 8.2.3 c), touch voltage limits for interrupted DC voltage; – Introduction of PELV; – Introduction of Ethernet power supply connection for luminaires (PoE); – Section 9, Introduction of IPX9; – Addition of Subclause 3.3.26 for wall mounted luminaires; – Revision of Annex D introducing alternative thermal tests for luminaires with ta marking higher than 25°C; – Revision of Table 10.3 and Subclause 3.3.19 for protective conductor current limits; – Track-mounted luminaires: cross reference to Annex A of IEC 60570:2003/AMD2:2019; – Revision of
- [12] UL_Certifies_The_First_Solar_Luminaires_To_UL_8801_OoI_-_EdisonReport__292f414e — magazine
source passage
# UL Certifies The First Solar Luminaires To UL 8801 OoI Source: Blog/Web URL: https://edisonreport.com/2021/09/28/ul-certifies-the-first-solar-luminaires-to-ul-8801-ooi/ Author: Jacob Wright Date: 2021-09-28 UL recently listed the first solar luminaires under its new UL 8801 Outline of Investigation (OoI). An OoI is a set of certification requirements prior to formalization as a full safety standard. UL 8801 is expected to become a full safety standard in 2022. In 2018, UL was approached by a solar luminaire manufacturer about creating a certification at the integrated solar luminaire level, rather than just using certified components: photovoltaic panel, battery, LED light engine, and controls. UL investigated the potential hazards and risks of the interaction between solar luminaire components, especially between the battery and photovoltaic controller, and how to ensure thermal runaway in the batteries is prevented. The first issue of UL 8801, Outline of Investigation for Photovoltaic-Powered Luminaire Systems, was published by UL, in April 2020. A year later, UL published the second issue of UL 8801 with updated requirements. Off-grid, solar fixtures have been growing in market share, especially for applications where access to grid power will be expensive. These solar luminaires eliminate trenching, cabling, and electricity costs for end users. They also can: – reduce liability for municipalities and other government agencies, by increasing public safety, – reduce a fac
- [13] UL_1598_-_Standard_for_Luminaires_-_Intertek__1f5be9d2 — authority
source passage
# UL 1598 – Standard for Luminaires Source: Blog/Web URL: https://www.intertek.com/lighting/standards/ul-1598/ Author: Date: 2025-09-05 UL 1598 – Standard for Luminaires What is UL 1598? UL 1598 is the primary safety standard for luminaires (lighting fixtures) used in residential, commercial, and industrial applications. It establishes requirements for the design, construction, and performance of complete lighting fixtures to reduce the risk of electrical shock, fire, and mechanical hazards under normal and abnormal operating conditions. UL 1598 covers aspects such as wiring methods, grounding, spacing of live parts, enclosure strength, temperature limits, protection against overheating, and suitability for specific installation environments (e.g., indoor, outdoor, damp, or wet locations). Compliance with UL 1598/CSA 250.0 demonstrates that a finished luminaire meets recognized safety requirements for installation and use in North America. What are the Benefits for testing to UL 1598 for Lighting Products? Testing lighting products to UL 1598 provides several important benefits for manufacturers, specifiers, and end users by demonstrating that a complete luminaire meets recognized safety requirements. Key benefits include: – Regulatory and Code Acceptance – UL 1598 compliance supports acceptance by OSHA-recognized NRTLs, electrical inspectors, and Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJs) across the U.S. and Canada. – Market Access – Certification to UL 1598 enables lighting pro
- [18] Landscape_and_Outdoor_Luminaire_Lighting_ULLighting_Performance_Testin__f858e2e3 — authority
source passage
luminaire system evaluations are more complex because they include four power transformations: – Light to electrical energy (the PV module) – Electrical to chemical energy (the battery) – Chemical back to electrical energy – Electrical to light (the luminaire) Each transformation generates heat and — where increasingly popular lithium-ion batteries are used — needs to be managed with great precision to reduce the fire risk. Fortunately, these systems work exclusively in lower voltages so there is little electric shock injury risk of concern. As the industry matures, pre-certified components likely will be available to allow the systems to enjoy the mix-and-match opportunities available to the more traditional low voltage systems. While standards exist for all of the major system subassemblies, the selection of certified subassemblies sized for this application remains limited. Published in 2020, UL 8801, Outline of Investigation for Photovoltaic-Powered Lighting, identifies the requirements and test program needed to help ensure the subassemblies operate safely when integrated into a single system. An additional annex to UL 8801 addresses performance tests like ingress protection and other tests that apply to outdoor applications. UL 8801 covers a wide range of product applications, from small garden pathway luminaires to larger street lighting and parking area applications. Marina luminaires A new section (555.38) was recently added to the 2023 National Electrical Code (NEC)
- [21] Photovoltaic_PV_and_Solar_Lighting_System_Testing_and__89123972 — authority
source passage
# Solar Lighting and Photovoltaic Systems Source: Blog/Web URL: https://www.ul.com/services/solar-lighting-and-photovoltaic-systems Author: Date: 2026-01-01 UL 8801, Standard for Photovoltaic (PV) Luminaire Systems Increasing popularity of solar and PV lighting The growing availability of energy-efficient, mid-sized photovoltaic (PV) lighting options, combined with rising consumer interest, is driving a need for new benchmarks in safety, cost savings and ease of installation worldwide. As a vital component of rural, off-the-grid development, and as a way for urban utility grids to preserve capacity, PV and solar lighting systems have increased expectations for versatility, reliability and durability. PV-powered luminaire systems are ideal for illuminating areas that lack a utility connection or reducing electrical use and cost in areas that have a connection. As a result, PV solutions hold great interest for manufacturers, property owners, utilities, municipalities and other stakeholders. Common applications in residential, public spaces and infrastructure include: – Pathway stake lights – Driveway or garden post lights – Exterior building wall-mounted area lighting – Municipal park post lights – Parking and area lighting – Streetlights Lighting for sustainability Our principal engineer discusses lighting for sustainability. PV safety standards and regulations We have capabilities and competencies for IEC, EN and regional/national standards and in the IECEE CB Scheme related
temperatures will be tested according to IEC 60925, with five cycles between lowest and highest ambient temperature given by the manufacturer and 200 hours at maximum surface temperature (surface temperature may not exceed 80°C). – Suitability of construction and sturdiness of casing as of IEC 60068-2-63 or IEC 60335-1, section 21 with a 250 g dead stroke hammer from different directions, operational test of changing fuse and lamp without danger of injury. – IP protection code according to IEC 60529, IP 20 for solidly built indoor applications, otherwise IP 54. Safety tests according to IEC 60598 and IEC 60924: – Insulation resistance as of IEC 60598, section 10 and IEC 60924, sections 12 and 13 – Dielectric strength as of IEC 60598, section 10 and IEC 60924, sections 12 and 13 – Voltage impulses at electronic ballast as of IEC 60924, section 18 – Terminals as of IEC 60598, sections 14 and 15 – Safety earth terminal as of IEC 60924, section 9 – Creepage and clearance distances as of IEC 60924, section 10 for electronic ballast and section 11 for lighting system – Fault conditions at electronic ballast as of IEC 60924, section 14 – Abnormal operating conditions will be tested as of IEC 60924, section 19: • Removal of lamps • Non-igniting lamps • Reverse polarity of input voltage • Surge voltage of 26 V for 12 V system (52 V for 24 V system) as maximum open circuit voltage from PV generator – Screws, conductive components and connections as of IEC 60598, section 4 – Heat and fi
supplied by a remote power unit or an integrated PV module, present no risk of electric shock injury they are subject to a far more abbreviated evaluation than their line voltage counterparts. Services to evaluate compliance to UL and CSA lighting standards We offer a full range of outdoor lighting testing and certification services, for both safety and performance, through our worldwide network of laboratories and engineering facilities. Line voltage luminaires Line voltage luminaires are evaluated for compliance to UL 1598, the Standard for Safety of Luminaires, including the applicable wet location requirements. These requirements are fully harmonized with the Canadian standard CSA C22.2 No. 250.0. Every UL certification project will provide for installation approval in both the U.S. and Canada. For enclosures made of polymeric material, additional evaluations are needed to assess their ability to retain integrity after exposure to ultraviolet light and very low temperatures. Additionally, many of these products are evaluated for ingress protection (IP) so they may be able to obtain an applicable IP rating per EN 60529, signifying the product’s ability to withstand penetration from moisture and dust. Low-voltage lighting certification Low voltage lighting can be evaluated as a complete system or as separate low voltage luminaires and power units. Over the past two decades, and increasingly with the expansion of LED technology, manufacturers have more commonly focused on ei
# IEC 60598-1:2020 Source: Blog/Web URL: https://webstore.iec.ch/en/publication/61414 Author: Date: 2010-02-05 IEC 60598-1 Revised – Revision of Clause 4.30, Fixing cover live parts of non-user replaceable light source; – Subclause 4.24.2, Blue Light Hazard: removal of Risk Group 0; – Subclause 5.2.16: additional requirements for AC mains appliance inlets related to IEC 61984; – Addition of Subclause 3.3.25, UV protection of cable; – Addition of Clause 4.34, Inclusion of EMF safety requirements (IEC 62493); – Revision of the requirements for functional earth and protective earth; – Addition of Clause 4.35, Protection against fast rotating parts; – Revision of Clause 3.2, Rated voltage marking; – Revision of Subclause 5.2.10, Cord anchorage; – Revision of Annex G for touch current and protective conductor current test set-up; – Addition of requirements for constant light output function and programmable current output; – Revision of Subclause 8.2.3 c), touch voltage limits for interrupted DC voltage; – Introduction of PELV; – Introduction of Ethernet power supply connection for luminaires (PoE); – Section 9, Introduction of IPX9; – Addition of Subclause 3.3.26 for wall mounted luminaires; – Revision of Annex D introducing alternative thermal tests for luminaires with ta marking higher than 25°C; – Revision of Table 10.3 and Subclause 3.3.19 for protective conductor current limits; – Track-mounted luminaires: cross reference to Annex A of IEC 60570:2003/AMD2:2019; – Revision of
# UL Certifies The First Solar Luminaires To UL 8801 OoI Source: Blog/Web URL: https://edisonreport.com/2021/09/28/ul-certifies-the-first-solar-luminaires-to-ul-8801-ooi/ Author: Jacob Wright Date: 2021-09-28 UL recently listed the first solar luminaires under its new UL 8801 Outline of Investigation (OoI). An OoI is a set of certification requirements prior to formalization as a full safety standard. UL 8801 is expected to become a full safety standard in 2022. In 2018, UL was approached by a solar luminaire manufacturer about creating a certification at the integrated solar luminaire level, rather than just using certified components: photovoltaic panel, battery, LED light engine, and controls. UL investigated the potential hazards and risks of the interaction between solar luminaire components, especially between the battery and photovoltaic controller, and how to ensure thermal runaway in the batteries is prevented. The first issue of UL 8801, Outline of Investigation for Photovoltaic-Powered Luminaire Systems, was published by UL, in April 2020. A year later, UL published the second issue of UL 8801 with updated requirements. Off-grid, solar fixtures have been growing in market share, especially for applications where access to grid power will be expensive. These solar luminaires eliminate trenching, cabling, and electricity costs for end users. They also can: – reduce liability for municipalities and other government agencies, by increasing public safety, – reduce a fac
# UL 1598 – Standard for Luminaires Source: Blog/Web URL: https://www.intertek.com/lighting/standards/ul-1598/ Author: Date: 2025-09-05 UL 1598 – Standard for Luminaires What is UL 1598? UL 1598 is the primary safety standard for luminaires (lighting fixtures) used in residential, commercial, and industrial applications. It establishes requirements for the design, construction, and performance of complete lighting fixtures to reduce the risk of electrical shock, fire, and mechanical hazards under normal and abnormal operating conditions. UL 1598 covers aspects such as wiring methods, grounding, spacing of live parts, enclosure strength, temperature limits, protection against overheating, and suitability for specific installation environments (e.g., indoor, outdoor, damp, or wet locations). Compliance with UL 1598/CSA 250.0 demonstrates that a finished luminaire meets recognized safety requirements for installation and use in North America. What are the Benefits for testing to UL 1598 for Lighting Products? Testing lighting products to UL 1598 provides several important benefits for manufacturers, specifiers, and end users by demonstrating that a complete luminaire meets recognized safety requirements. Key benefits include: – Regulatory and Code Acceptance – UL 1598 compliance supports acceptance by OSHA-recognized NRTLs, electrical inspectors, and Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJs) across the U.S. and Canada. – Market Access – Certification to UL 1598 enables lighting pro
luminaire system evaluations are more complex because they include four power transformations: – Light to electrical energy (the PV module) – Electrical to chemical energy (the battery) – Chemical back to electrical energy – Electrical to light (the luminaire) Each transformation generates heat and — where increasingly popular lithium-ion batteries are used — needs to be managed with great precision to reduce the fire risk. Fortunately, these systems work exclusively in lower voltages so there is little electric shock injury risk of concern. As the industry matures, pre-certified components likely will be available to allow the systems to enjoy the mix-and-match opportunities available to the more traditional low voltage systems. While standards exist for all of the major system subassemblies, the selection of certified subassemblies sized for this application remains limited. Published in 2020, UL 8801, Outline of Investigation for Photovoltaic-Powered Lighting, identifies the requirements and test program needed to help ensure the subassemblies operate safely when integrated into a single system. An additional annex to UL 8801 addresses performance tests like ingress protection and other tests that apply to outdoor applications. UL 8801 covers a wide range of product applications, from small garden pathway luminaires to larger street lighting and parking area applications. Marina luminaires A new section (555.38) was recently added to the 2023 National Electrical Code (NEC)
# Solar Lighting and Photovoltaic Systems Source: Blog/Web URL: https://www.ul.com/services/solar-lighting-and-photovoltaic-systems Author: Date: 2026-01-01 UL 8801, Standard for Photovoltaic (PV) Luminaire Systems Increasing popularity of solar and PV lighting The growing availability of energy-efficient, mid-sized photovoltaic (PV) lighting options, combined with rising consumer interest, is driving a need for new benchmarks in safety, cost savings and ease of installation worldwide. As a vital component of rural, off-the-grid development, and as a way for urban utility grids to preserve capacity, PV and solar lighting systems have increased expectations for versatility, reliability and durability. PV-powered luminaire systems are ideal for illuminating areas that lack a utility connection or reducing electrical use and cost in areas that have a connection. As a result, PV solutions hold great interest for manufacturers, property owners, utilities, municipalities and other stakeholders. Common applications in residential, public spaces and infrastructure include: – Pathway stake lights – Driveway or garden post lights – Exterior building wall-mounted area lighting – Municipal park post lights – Parking and area lighting – Streetlights Lighting for sustainability Our principal engineer discusses lighting for sustainability. PV safety standards and regulations We have capabilities and competencies for IEC, EN and regional/national standards and in the IECEE CB Scheme related