Who issues EN standards

In the field of technical standards, the issuance and establishment of standards play a crucial role in promoting quality and ensuring interoperability. In the European Union, one notable organization takes charge of developing and publishing European Standards (EN). Let's dive into this topic and explore who issues EN standards.

European Committee for Standardization (CEN)

The primary body responsible for issuing EN standards is the European Committee for Standardization (CEN). CEN is a nonprofit organization that fosters collaboration among member countries to develop harmonized standards across various industries. It was founded in 1961 with the aim of facilitating trade and promoting economic growth within Europe.

CEN consists of national standardization bodies from different European countries, including Germany, France, UK, and many others. These bodies work together to draft and publish EN standards, covering a wide range of sectors such as engineering, technology, safety, and environmental practices.

Mandate from the European Commission

Before CEN can issue an EN standard, it needs a mandate from the European Commission. The European Commission is the executive branch of the European Union and has the authority to define the objectives and policies related to standardization in Europe.

Once the European Commission identifies a need for a new standard or updates to existing ones, it provides CEN with a formal mandate. This mandate outlines the scope, purpose, and desired outcomes for the development of the EN standard. It serves as a guideline for CEN during the drafting process.

Collaboration and Consensus

CEN operates based on the principles of collaboration and consensus. The drafting process involves experts and stakeholders from relevant industries, academia, consumer organizations, and public authorities. They come together in technical committees and working groups to discuss and define the content of EN standards.

The committee members review existing research, apply technical expertise, and consider various viewpoints to develop a consensus on the standard's requirements. This inclusive approach ensures that EN standards are well-balanced, reliable, and compatible with the needs of European markets and consumers.

Once a draft standard is ready, it undergoes a rigorous review process involving public consultation, comments from stakeholders, and final approvals. After successful completion, the standard is published by CEN and becomes an official EN standard that member countries are encouraged to adopt as their national standard.

Conclusion

CEN plays a critical role in issuing European Standards (EN) that contribute to the harmonization of technical specifications within Europe. Through collaboration, consensus, and alignment with the European Commission's mandates, CEN ensures the development of high-quality and relevant standards. These standards facilitate trade, enhance product quality, and promote innovation across various industries in the European Union.