In contrast to the US, the multiplicity of languages in the international market has created a demand for symbol-based safety labels. The principle standard regarding international safety labeling is the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 3864 Graphical Symbols - Safety Colours and Safety Signs. ISO signs are symbol only -- or, if words are present, they must be in the official language of that country.
In Europe, all Safety Labels must meet the requirements of ISO 3864. Meeting current international safety labeling requirements is an important part of preparing your product for export. ISO-formatted and harmonized safety labels are one of the most visible aspects of your product's design. If your products ship to Europe, proper safety labeling is essential to meet CE marking requirements. If the wrong safety labeling system is used, you risk your equipment failing inspection.
Where practical, it is often possible to use harmonized ANSI Z535.4 and ISO 3864 standards (such as the Safety Label on the left, above). This is NOT required in the US, but it is advisable when practical since these labels meet both standards.
