What is BS EN 62368-1:2018+A11:2018

BS EN 62368-1:2018+A11:2018 is a professional technical standard that pertains to the safety requirements for electrical and electronic equipment intended for general purpose use. This standard encompasses various components such as audio, video, information technology, and communication technology equipment. It provides guidelines and criteria for ensuring the safety of these devices, with the aim of preventing hazards and minimizing risks for users.

Background and Purpose

The need for BS EN 62368-1:2018+A11:2018 arose due to the rapidly evolving technological landscape and the consequent changes in the risks associated with electronic equipment. Traditional standards, such as BS EN 60065 and BS EN 60950, were inadequate in addressing these new risks. Hence, there was a demand for a comprehensive and updated standard that could encompass a wide range of equipment types and technologies.

The purpose of BS EN 62368-1:2018+A11:2018 is to provide manufacturers, regulators, and users with a unified framework for evaluating and ensuring the safety of electrical and electronic equipment. By adhering to this standard, manufacturers can ensure that their products are safe for use, while regulators can enforce consistent safety standards and users can have confidence in the safety of the devices they interact with.

Key Features and Requirements

BS EN 62368-1:2018+A11:2018 introduces several key features and requirements that distinguish it from its predecessors. One significant change is the adoption of a hazard-based approach to risk assessment. This means that manufacturers need to identify potential hazards associated with their equipment and implement appropriate safeguards to mitigate these risks. Additionally, the standard emphasizes the importance of considering reasonably foreseeable misuse of the equipment.

Another notable aspect of BS EN 62368-1:2018+A11:2018 is the inclusion of requirements related to energy sources and energy management. This ensures that equipment is designed to operate efficiently and safely, taking into account factors such as power supplies, battery management, and thermal considerations.

The standard also provides comprehensive guidelines on electrical insulation, protection against electric shock, fire hazards, mechanical hazards, and the avoidance of excessive temperatures. It covers aspects such as product marking, user instructions, and safety tests that need to be conducted during the manufacturing process.

Benefits and Impact

BS EN 62368-1:2018+A11:2018 offers several benefits to various stakeholders in the industry. For manufacturers, it provides a unified standard that replaces the need to comply with multiple standards for different types of equipment. This simplifies the design and development process, reduces costs, and facilitates global market access. Additionally, adhering to this standard enhances the reputation of manufacturers by demonstrating their commitment to producing safe and reliable products.

Regulators benefit from having a harmonized and consistent standard that can be applied across different countries and regions. This promotes international trade and streamlines regulatory processes. Users, on the other hand, enjoy increased confidence in the safety of the equipment they purchase, knowing that it has undergone rigorous testing and meets stringent criteria for risk mitigation. This contributes to overall consumer satisfaction and trust.

In conclusion, BS EN 62368-1:2018+A11:2018 is a vital technical standard that ensures the safety of electrical and electronic equipment meant for general purpose use. Its hazard-based approach, emphasis on energy management, and comprehensive requirements contribute significantly to the protection of users and the prevention of accidents. This standard has a profound impact on the industry by providing a unified framework for manufacturers, regulators, and users to ensure the safety of electronic devices.