Overview
EN ISO 9687:2015/A1:2018 (ISO 9687:2015/Amd 1:2018) specifies internationally harmonized graphical symbols for dental equipment. Published by CEN as an endorsed amendment, the document adds new symbols and confirms their intended use on dental devices and in associated documentation - for example in instructions for use, marking, labelling and technical product documentation. The amendment (A1:2018) supplements the 2015 edition with additional symbols relevant to modern dental devices and packaging.
Key topics and requirements
- Purpose: standardized graphical symbols intended for use on the appropriate piece of dental equipment and in related documentation.
- New symbols added by Amendment 1 (2018):
- Electronic instructions for use (ISO 7000‑3500)
- Do not dispose into ordinary municipal waste / WEEE (reference to 2012/19/EU)
- Ultrasonic scaler with illumination (ISO 7000‑3618)
- Recyclable packaging materials (ISO 7000‑1135)
- References: some symbols cross-reference ISO 7000 registration numbers and IEC symbol registries (IEC 60417), as cited in the amendment.
- Implementation: symbols are to be used consistently in device marking, user manuals, labelling and technical documentation to improve safety, usability and regulatory compliance.
- Regulatory note: the amendment was approved by CEN and is intended for national adoption by CEN member bodies; users should be aware of potential patent declarations and follow national implementation rules.
Practical applications and who uses it
- Dental device manufacturers: apply standardized symbols on equipment and packaging to meet international labelling and instructions-for-use expectations.
- Technical writers and documentation teams: include the correct symbols in user manuals, quick guides and online instructions (electronic instructions for use).
- Regulatory and compliance officers: ensure labelling meets ISO/CEN requirements and aligns with waste directives (WEEE) and packaging recycling marks.
- Product designers and industrial designers: integrate graphical symbols into device panels, packaging and service documentation to enhance clarity and cross-border usability.
- Procurement and maintenance teams in dental clinics: rely on consistent symbols for safe operation, disposal and maintenance of dental equipment.
Related standards
- ISO 7000 (Graphical symbols for use on equipment) - referenced registration numbers in the amendment.
- IEC 60417 (Graphical symbols for electrical equipment) - related symbol registries.
- EU Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive (2012/19/EU) - referenced for disposal marking.
Using EN ISO 9687:2015/A1:2018 helps ensure consistent, recognizable graphical symbols for dental equipment, supporting safer use, clearer documentation, and regulatory alignment across international markets.
