The CB Scheme remains one of the most influential international certification systems in 2025, built on the principle of “test once, use everywhere.” It simplifies global product compliance and accelerates market entry by minimizing repetitive testing across different countries.
The IECEE CB Scheme is a global mutual recognition system for product safety test reports and certificates, based on IEC standards.
It allows manufacturers to obtain national certifications in multiple countries by using one CB test report — significantly reducing time and cost for global launches.
| Product Category | Core Applicable Standard | Key Test Focus |
|---|---|---|
| IT & Audio/Video Equipment | IEC 62368-1:2023 | Electric shock protection, temperature rise, insulation, abnormal operation |
| Household Appliances | IEC 60335-1 | Leakage current, mechanical strength, IP rating, heating element protection |
| Lighting Equipment | IEC 60598-1 | Lamp terminals, harmonic current, glare and heat resistance |
| Power Supply Equipment | IEC 61558-1 | Voltage stability, short-circuit, dielectric strength |
| Medical Devices | IEC 60601 / ISO 80601 Series | Electrical and mechanical safety, essential performance |
| Batteries | IEC 62133 | Overcharge, short-circuit, vibration, thermal abuse tests |
Battery products are subject to stringent testing under IEC 62133 and related standards.
✅ Cells must pass tests such as continuous low-rate charging, vibration, temperature cycling, crush, low pressure, and forced discharge.
✅ Battery Packs undergo vibration, case stress at high temperature, temperature cycling, external short circuit, and mechanical shock (impact).
These ensure product safety during transportation, usage, and extreme conditions.
The latest IECEE Operational Document (OD-2037) effective January 1, 2024, brings several important updates:
1️⃣ Functional Safety Listing on Certificates
CB Certificates must now display functional safety parameters (e.g., SIL, PL, PFH, MTTFd) for better transparency — no new tests are added, only clearer reporting.
2️⃣ Integrated Multi-Standard Certification
Products complying with multiple IEC standards (e.g., energy storage systems under IEC 62368-1 and IEC 62040-1) can now obtain a single consolidated CB Certificate, simplifying document management.
3️⃣ Clarified Model Naming Rules
New guidance ensures consistency for hardware/software combinations — e.g., different software versions in the same hardware can share one model name with proper documentation.
4️⃣ Standalone Software Certification Path
Standalone software components (e.g., firmware libraries) can now obtain their own CB certification based on IEC 60730-1, supporting embedded system developers.
1️⃣ Select an NCB (National Certification Body) — choose an IECEE-recognized body authorized to issue CB Certificates.
2️⃣ Submit Application & Technical Files — including manuals, circuit diagrams, component lists, and supplier CB certificates.
3️⃣ Product Testing — conducted by a CBTL (CB Testing Laboratory) according to IEC standards.
4️⃣ Certificate Issuance — once test results are approved, the CB Certificate and test report are issued.
Timeline: typically 4–8 weeks with complete documentation.
✅ Confirm Certification Type: Some categories (like CCP or ACP programs) may issue alternative certificates instead of CB — confirm with your NCB early.
✅ Track Standard Updates: CB Certificates have no expiry, but they lose validity if related IEC standards or product designs change.
✅ Consider National Differences: Before applying, identify additional national deviations (e.g., for China or USA) to include them in testing — saving significant time later.
✅ Maintain Consistency: Ensure test samples match production units and technical files are consistent and complete.
Global Recognition: Accepted in over 50 member countries.
Faster Market Entry: Reduces repetitive testing and documentation.
Increased Credibility: Strengthens product reliability and buyer confidence.
The CB Product Safety Certification is an essential gateway for global manufacturers seeking faster, cost-effective compliance in 2025. With growing convergence between IEC standards and national requirements, aligning early with the CB Scheme ensures your product’s long-term competitiveness.
Q1: How long is a CB Certificate valid?
A: It technically has no fixed expiry but must be re-evaluated if the IEC standard or product design changes.
Q2: Can one CB certificate cover multiple models?
A: Yes, if models share identical safety-critical design and test results. Variants with minor cosmetic changes can be grouped.
Q3: Do I need local factory audits?
A: Only for specific product categories or if required by the target country’s authorities.
Q4: Is the CB test report accepted directly by all countries?
A: Not automatically. Some countries require additional testing to cover “national differences.”
For professional assistance in planning global CB certification strategies or managing updates across multiple product categories:
Email: king.guo@cblueasia.com
Phone: +86 13534225140
Website: www.blueasialabs.com
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