What is BS EN 62368?

BS EN 62368 is an international standard that applies to the safety of audio/video, information technology, and communication equipment. It sets out requirements for the design, construction, and testing of these types of equipment in order to ensure their safe operation.

Scope of BS EN 62368

This standard covers a wide range of equipment, including but not limited to:

Audio amplifiers and receivers

Televisions and monitors

Personal computers and laptops

Modems and routers

Mobile phones and tablets

It is important to note that BS EN 62368 does not specify performance or quality requirements for these devices, but rather focuses on their safety aspects.

Key Requirements of BS EN 62368

BS EN 62368 introduces a risk-based approach to safety, aiming to identify and mitigate potential hazards. Some of the key requirements include:

Enclosure: Equipment should be designed and constructed in such a way that protects users from hazardous parts and prevents any ingress of foreign objects, water, or dust.

Electrical Safety: Measures should be taken to prevent electric shock, including proper insulation, grounding, and protection against short circuits and overcurrents.

Fire Hazards: Equipment should be designed with materials and components that reduce the risk of fire or ignition.

Ergonomics: Considerations should be given to the physical and operational characteristics of the equipment to ensure comfortable and safe usage.

Compliance and Certification

In order to meet the requirements of BS EN 62368, manufacturers need to ensure that their equipment undergoes rigorous testing and evaluation. This can be done through a conformity assessment process, where a notified body assesses the equipment's compliance with the standard.

Once compliant, the equipment can bear the CE marking, indicating its conformity with European Union safety requirements. This mark allows for free movement and sale of the equipment within the European Economic Area.

BS EN 62368 is an important standard in ensuring the safety of audio/video, information technology, and communication equipment. By adhering to its requirements, manufacturers can provide consumers with products that are not only technologically advanced but also safe to use.