TS EN 980

TS EN 980 is a terminology and marking standard focused on graphical symbols used in the labelling of medical devices. It provides a general framework for understanding symbols that appear on the device, its packaging, or the accompanying information, with particular relevance to the short, visual communication of medical-device information across multilingual markets.

The role of symbols in medical device labelling

In the medical device sector, graphical symbols can replace or complement text for items such as instructions for use, storage conditions, manufacturer identification, batch or serial information, single-use marking, and certain warnings. This is especially valuable where products are marketed in many languages or where label space is limited. For symbols to be useful, their meaning must be consistent, visually distinct, and unlikely to be misread by the intended audience.

What this standard helps organise

• The use of graphical symbols as a common language in medical device labelling
• Short, readable, language-independent communication of key information
• Consistent interpretation of labels across manufacturers, users, and the distribution chain
• The way terminology and symbols support each other in medical device information

From a general technical perspective, symbols do not always eliminate the need for written warnings; interpretation also depends on the product class, intended use, and target user group. The title of TS EN 980 shows that the document is dedicated to graphical symbols for medical device labels, so it should be understood as a technical reference for symbol-based information display. This record belongs to a withdrawn standard, but the subject remains useful background for understanding medical device labelling practice.