DEKRA broadens scope with new certification services for batteries in (emergency) lighting
DEKRA first TIC organization accredited to certify batteries against ENEC
International Testing, Inspection and Certification (TIC) organization DEKRA Certification B.V. is the first testing facility in the Netherlands to certify batteries against ENEC. This applies to batteries for lighting applications. DEKRA received an accreditation from the Raad voor Accreditatie (Dutch Council for Accreditation) on 21 June 2023, expanding its accreditation scope. In addition, DEKRA received an accreditation for the battery product group, offering accredited testing services against IEC/EN 62133-2 and IEC/EN 62620.
With the ENEC accreditation for batteries, DEKRA is the first Dutch TIC organization to be able to offer a safety mark for batteries in lighting. This contributes to a higher quality level of the product group. “We are proud of this expansion of our scope and we look forward to being able to offer this new service to our customers”, says Bram Holtus, Managing Director van DEKRA Certification B.V. “With the new accreditation, DEKRA can provide high-quality tests against international standards for batteries, ensuring the quality and safety of batteries and lighting in every sector.”
The ENEC standard is an ISO type 5 certification. This means it involves not only a one-time product assessment, but also periodic quality controls on production processes, and testing of samples already on the market ('surveillance'). With a type 5 certification, the manufacturer shows that they take extra steps to guarantee the safety and quality of their products. The certificate is only awarded after independent testing by an accredited test house. For lighting, ENEC is not mandatory, but the mark certainly contributes to trust in the product and the manufacturer.
IEC/EN 62133-2 is an international standard, used to assert the safety of portable batteries. This standard covers all chemical and electrical aspects of battery production, including tests on mechanical safety, current intensity, short circuit, overcurrent, and temperature. In addition, there are tests to verify the safety of electrical power systems and the use of certain chemical substances.
IEC/EN 62620 is an international standard for the safety of batteries for industrial applications. This standard includes tests for electrical and mechanical safety and lifespan. The accreditation fits well within DEKRA's service portfolio.