EN 50428 specifies requirements for Home and Building Electronic Systems (HBES) switches, covering devices with a working voltage of up to 250 V AC and a rated current of up to 16 A. This standard applies to HBES switches used in households and similar fixed electrical installations, whether indoors or outdoors, and includes electronic extension units. It encompasses:

• HBES switches for lamp circuits, dimmers, motor speed control (e.g., ventilating fans), and heating installations.
• Sensors, actuators, switched-socket-outlets, and other associated electronic extension units.

The term "HBES switch" in this standard refers to all types of HBES devices, such as switches, sensors, and actuators. These devices operate and control through various means, including manual activation (e.g., buttons, cards), sensing (e.g., touch, proximity), and physical influences (e.g., light, temperature). Transmission is achieved via electronic signals across different media, such as powerline, twisted pair, optical fiber, radio frequency, and infrared.

Devices conforming to EN 50428 are designed for ambient temperatures typically up to 25°C, with occasional peaks at 35°C. Functional safety aspects are not covered by this standard; they should be addressed by the standards applicable to the devices controlled by HBES switches. Special considerations may be required for environments with exceptional conditions, such as higher temperatures.