Due to the growing use of devices like smart phones, laptops, and tablets that communicate wirelessly, the new IEC 60601-1-2 collateral standard was introduced to address a reciprocal concern about electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) affecting both the medical device in question and other devices in the vicinity. In the past, it may have been possible to exclude these sources of interference from sensitive medical environments, such as hospitals, but with more and more medical equipment now intended to operate in homes and other environments, EMC concerns had to be taken into account. These “intended use environments” introduced in the 4th edition are specifically defined in three categories: professional healthcare facilities, home healthcare, and “special” environments. The details of these intended use environments are further outlined here.