New Hazard Based Standard: IEC 62368-1

On Jan. 10, 2010, IEC 62368-1 Ed 1.0: Audio/Video, Information and Communication Technology Equipment – Safety Requirements, was published as an International Standard.  Not only will this new standard replace the current standards for these product categories, it is also an important milestone for safety standards to move from the traditional, prescriptive approach to a new, hazard-based approach that emphasizes safety design in the early product development phase. 

The earlier manufacturers understand the Hazard Based Safety Engineering (HBSE) concept, the faster they can meet the challenges and transition to the new standard smoothly.

UL has been serving on various national committees involved in the development of IEC 62368-1 and is your resource for HBSE knowledge and information on hazard-based standards development.

Check this site often for more technical information and updates.


White Paper “IEC 62368-1: A New Safety Standard for High-Tech Products"

This white paper provides background on the new standard and looks ahead to the challenges and potential impact of its implementation.  You will also learn about the Three Block Model, a core concept of Hazard Based Safety Engineering (HBSE) that characterizes the new standard.  Download the White Paper and the Executive Summary.


Technical Briefs

IEC 62368-1's Scope (April 9, 2010) (registration required)

HBSE's Three Block Models (April 16, 2010) (registration required)

Ordinary vs. Skilled vs. Instructed Persons (April 23, 2010) (registration required)

Introduction to Safeguards (May 7, 2010)  (registration required)

General Energy Source Classifications: Class 1, 2 & 3 (May 21, 2010) (registration required)

Electrical Energy Source (ES) vs. SELV and LCC (June 4, 2010) (registration required)