Are EN and ISO standards the same ?

EN and ISO standards are both technical guidelines that aim to establish best practices for various industries. However, there are significant differences between the two, which have been identified in this article.

EN standards, also known as European Norms, are specifically developed to harmonize technical specifications across European countries. While adhering to global ISO principles, EN standards refine and supplement ISO standards in certain areas to ensure consistency and compliance within the European market. These standards are created by the European Committee for Standardization (CEN), which is composed of representatives from national standards bodies in European Union member states. EN standards cover various fields, including materials, construction, electrical engineering, and information technology, among others.

ISO standards, on the other hand, have a broader scope as they aim to provide universal guidelines applicable across different industries and nations. Adopted by organizations or industries worldwide, ISO standards are voluntary and can be used as a benchmark for their industry.

The adoption of EN and ISO standards varies. ISO standards are voluntary and can be adopted by any organization or industry worldwide. In contrast, EN standards are intended for implementation within the European Union and have a regulatory aspect. They may be referenced in legislation, contracts, or trade agreements.

EN and ISO standards are similar in that they both provide guidelines for various industries. However, they differ in their scope, adoption, and regulatory aspect. EN standards are specifically developed for the European market, while ISO standards are universal and can be adopted worldwide.