TSE ISO/IEC GUIDE 14:1999

TSE ISO/IEC GUIDE 14:1999 is a guide on the basic principles for operating a product information system for consumers. It focuses on cases where product information is generally based on standards approved or recognised by ISO, IEC, or a national standards body, and it belongs to a wider series on consumer information.

Purpose of consumer product information systems

In general technical terms, product information helps consumers understand what a product is, compare alternatives, and make informed choices. Such information may appear in labels, brochures, technical summaries, declarations of conformity, or other explanatory material. The core idea is that the information should be consistent, understandable, and grounded in a recognised basis. This guide addresses the principles for organising that kind of standards-based information; it is not a test method standard for measuring product performance item by item.

Standards-based information and marks of conformity

Standards-based product information and marks of conformity are related but distinct concepts. The former concerns the information framework used to explain the criteria by which a product is described or assessed. The latter is a marking approach used to indicate conformity with a particular standard or requirement. Comparative testing is another aspect of consumer information, but the guide’s role is to frame how this information system should function rather than to define one specific test programme. The withdrawn status indicates that this TSE listing is no longer in force.