Overview
EN ISO 5356-2:2012/A1:2019 is Amendment 1 to the European adoption of ISO 5356-2 and clarifies requirements for screw-threaded, weight-bearing conical connectors used with anaesthetic and respiratory equipment. Approved by CEN in 2019 and published in English, French and German, the amendment reinforces compatibility with ISO 5356-1 and addresses functional testing and key dimensional references.
This amendment acknowledges the need for more substantial connectors where heavy or fragile components must be supported, while maintaining compatibility with lightweight cone-and-socket systems specified in ISO 5356-1:2015.
Key Topics
- Scope and intent: Confirms that screw-threaded weight-bearing connectors are intended to support heavier breathing system attachments and fragile components while remaining compatible with ISO 5356-1 cones and sockets.
- Introduction updates: Replaces specific introductory sentences to emphasize the complementary role of Part 2 connectors and user responsibility to verify correct assembly before use.
- Normative reference: Updates the reference to ISO 5356-1:2015 (Part 1: Cones and sockets), aligning dimensional and compatibility requirements.
- Conformity and testing: Adds an explicit instruction under Clause 4 to "Check compliance by measurement and functional testing," stressing verification beyond dimensional checks.
- Figure and key revisions: Updates the Figure 1 key to reference 22 mm cone and 22 mm socket as specified in ISO 5356-1:2015 (including optional 15 mm coaxial socket), clarifying mating parts for weight-bearing configurations.
Applications
The amendment is directly relevant to manufacturers, testing laboratories, clinical engineers and purchasing/specification teams in healthcare facilities. Practical applications include:
- Designing and specifying breathing system assemblies that must support monitoring devices, filters, humidifiers, or other heavier components.
- Ensuring interchangeability and compatibility between screw-threaded weight-bearing connectors and standard cones/sockets from ISO 5356-1:2015.
- Establishing factory and field acceptance tests that include measurement and functional testing to confirm load-bearing performance and correct assembly.
Benefits:
- Increased patient and staff safety through reduced risk of inadvertent disconnection or component failure.
- Clearer guidance for manufacturers on compatibility requirements and test expectations.
Related Standards
- ISO 5356-1:2015 - Cones and sockets for anaesthetic and respiratory equipment (normative reference in this amendment).
- Other parts of the ISO 5356 series covering alternative connector types and dimensions.
For implementation questions or feedback, consult your national standards body or the ISO/TC 121 and CEN/TC 215 technical committees responsible for anaesthetic and respiratory equipment.
