The IECEE CB Scheme is an international system for mutual acceptance of test reports and certificates for electrical and electronic equipment. Established under the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), it operates on a simple but powerful principle: one test, one certificate, accepted by 50+ participating countries [1]. This multilateral agreement eliminates the need for duplicate testing when exporting electrical products to different markets, significantly reducing time to market and certification costs for manufacturers.
Important Scope Clarification: The CB Scheme applies specifically to electrical and electronic products across multiple product categories. It does NOT apply to textiles, clothing, or non-electrical products. If you're manufacturing women's blouses, shirts, or other apparel items, CB certification is not relevant to your product line. This guide is intended for manufacturers and exporters of electrical products such as power adapters, USB chargers, LED lighting, home appliances, IT equipment, power tools, and medical devices who are considering CB certification for international market access.
The CB Scheme works through a network of National Certification Bodies (NCBs) and Certified Testing Laboratories (CBTLs) in each member country. When a manufacturer submits a product for testing, the CBTL conducts safety tests according to relevant IEC standards. Upon successful completion, the NCB issues a CB Test Report and CB Certificate. These documents can then be presented to NCBs in other member countries to obtain national certifications without repeating the full testing process [1].
The CB Scheme is designed to facilitate international trade by reducing technical barriers. One product, one test, one mark - this is the core value proposition that makes CB certification attractive for manufacturers targeting multiple international markets [1].
