IEC 60335-2-81:2020 deals with the safety of electric foot warmers and heating mats for household and similar purposes, their rated voltage being not more than 250 V. Appliances not intended for normal household use but which nevertheless may be a source of danger to the public, such as appliances intended to be used by laymen in shops, in light industry and on farms, are within the scope of this standard. As far as is practicable, this standard deals with the common hazards presented by appliances that are encountered by all persons in and around the home. However, in general, it does not take into account persons (including children) whose physical, sensory or mental capabilities; or lack of experience and knowledge prevents them from using the appliance safely without supervision or instruction. It also does not take into account children playing with the appliance. It was established on the basis of the fifth edition (2010) of that standard. This third edition cancels and replaces the second edition published in 2002, its Amendment 1 (2007) and its Amendment 2 (2011). It constitutes a technical revision. The principal changes in this edition as compared with the second edition of IEC 60335-2-81 are as follows (minor changes are not listed):
- requirements for washable appliances (5.3, 7.1, 7.6, 7.12);
- requirements for controls in flexible cords (15.1.1, 24.2) and requirements for appliance inlets (22.105, 24.1.5, 29.1.3). The attention of National Committees is drawn to the fact that equipment manufacturers and testing organizations may need a transitional period following publication of a new, amended or revised IEC publication in which to make products in accordance with the new requirements and to equip themselves for conducting new or revised tests. It is the recommendation of the committee that the content of this standard be adopted for implementation nationally not earlier than 12 months or later than 36 months from the date of its publication. This publication is to be read in conjunction with IEC 60335-1:2010. This consolidated version consists of the third edition (2015) and its amendments, amendment 1 (2017) and amendment 2 (2020). Therefore, no need to order amendment in addition to this publication.

Key words: Foot warmer, heating element, heating mat