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NEN standards

The NEN standards (Dutch standards) for LED lighting are a set of guidelines and standards focused on the safety, performance, and quality of lighting technologies in the Netherlands, including LED lighting. These standards help manufacturers, designers, and users of lighting ensure that products meet the required safety and quality standards.

In the Netherlands and other European countries, standards are often standardized by the CEN (European Committee for Standardization) and the IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission) . NEN standards for LED lighting are often based on European or international standards.

Important NEN standards for LED lighting

  1. NEN-EN 60598 (Luminaires) : This standard applies to luminaires , including LED lighting. It covers the requirements for the safety , construction , and performance of luminaires. The standard ensures that luminaires can be installed and used safely, and that they meet the required fire safety and electrical safety standards.
    • NEN-EN 60598-1 covers general requirements for luminaires.
    • NEN-EN 60598-2 contains additional requirements for specific types of lighting, such as recessed lighting, wall lighting, etc.
  2. NEN-EN 62471 (Light sources – Photobiological safety) : This standard specifically addresses the photobiological safety of light sources, such as LED lamps . The standard assesses the potential health risks of LED lighting related to blue light exposure and other spectral properties. This is important for protecting the eyes and skin from the harmful effects of light.
  3. NEN-EN 62031 (LED modules) : This standard covers the safety and performance of LED modules . An LED module is a pre-assembled unit of LEDs, commonly used in various types of luminaires and lighting systems. This standard specifies requirements for the safety of the module, the electrical connections, and the performance of the LEDs.
  4. NEN-EN 62717 (LED modules for general lighting) : This standard describes the requirements for LED modules used for general lighting applications , such as residential, office, and commercial environments. It covers aspects such as efficiency , durability , color rendering , and the module's light supply .
  5. NEN-EN 55015 (EMC – Electromagnetic compatibility of lighting) : This standard focuses on the electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) of lighting, including LED lighting. It covers the requirements for preventing interference with electronic equipment by lighting and ensuring that the lighting itself is not susceptible to electromagnetic interference (EMI).
  6. NEN-EN 13032 (Workplace Lighting) : This standard covers the lighting requirements for lighting in workplaces and other functional areas. Although not specifically addressing LED lighting, it can be used when designing lighting applications using LEDs to ensure they meet the luminous intensity , uniformity , and light distribution required for workplaces.

Relevant aspects of NEN standards for LED lighting

  1. Energy efficiency : LED lighting is often selected for its energy efficiency . Standards include specific requirements for the energy consumption of LED lighting, ensuring that the lighting meets the required environmental and energy-saving goals .
  2. Colour Rendering Index (CRI) : The Colour Rendering Index (CRI) is specified in many of these standards, for example NEN-EN 62031. LED lighting must meet a certain colour rendering value to provide natural and clear colour reproduction, which is essential in many environments such as workspaces and shops.
  3. Safety : The NEN standards also address the safety aspects of LED lighting, such as protection against electric shock , overheating, and fire hazards. This is particularly important for lighting used in industrial or commercial environments.
  4. Lifespan : LED lighting is often chosen for its long lifespan. Standards specify the required lifespan and reliability of LED modules and fixtures, which is important for maintenance costs and the total operating cost of lighting applications.
  5. Lighting supply (Driver) : The driver of an LED lighting system, which controls the power supply, must also comply with various standards. For example, NEN-EN 61347 specifies requirements for the safety and performance of LED drivers.

Conclusion

The NEN standards for LED lighting are crucial for ensuring the safety , quality , and performance of LED lighting products. They help manufacturers meet required safety , energy efficiency , and environmental requirements , while also ensuring the consistency of product quality and performance. If you intend to use LED lighting in a specific project, it's important to ensure the products you choose comply with the relevant NEN standards, ensuring they are safe, efficient, and reliable.