IEC 60073:2002

Overview

IEC 60073:2002 - "Basic and safety principles for man‑machine interface, marking and identification - Coding principles for indicators and actuators" - establishes general rules for assigning specific meanings to visual, acoustic and tactile indications. As a Basic Safety Publication (IEC Guide 104), it guides designers and technical committees on consistent, unambiguous coding for indicators and actuators across equipment from single LEDs and push‑buttons to extensive control stations and video displays.

Key topics and requirements

• Scope and purpose
  • Increase safety of persons, property and environment by improving monitoring and control.
  • Facilitate rapid, unambiguous recognition of control conditions and actuator positions.
• Coding principles
  • Establish coding early in system design and keep it consistent across a plant or process.
  • Use one or more complementary coding channels (visual, acoustic, tactile) rather than a single means.
• Visual codes
  • Colour (hue, brightness, saturation, contrast) - e.g., for status signaling.
  • Shape and graphics (alphanumeric, pictographs, symbols, texture).
  • Position and orientation (absolute/relative location on panels or screens).
  • Temporal changes (flashing, colour or shape changes over time).
• Acoustic codes
  • By type of sound (tone, noise, spoken message).
  • Pure tone and selected frequencies; change over time (frequency, volume, duration).
• Tactile codes
  • By shape, force, vibration, surface texture or position; can change over time.
• Application requirements
  • Indication modes, actuation modes (non‑illuminated and illuminated actuators), and integration with video display screens.
  • Definitions and normative references to ensure clarity and interoperability.
• Documentation
  • Meanings of selected codes must be documented and unambiguous; annexes provide examples and special requirements (e.g., mechanical indicators).

Practical applications and users

IEC 60073 is used by:

• HMI and control-panel designers, electrical and safety engineers implementing indicator and actuator coding.
• Machine builders, control-room integrators and plant operators standardizing alarm and status signaling.
• Technical committees and standards writers assigning coding for specialized functions.
• UX/ergonomics specialists optimizing human‑machine interface for safety and operability.

Typical applications include alarm systems, industrial control panels, safety marking, illuminated push‑buttons, LED indicators, tactile controls, and graphical displays where consistent coding improves speed and accuracy of operator response.

Related standards

Normative references include IEC 60447 (actuating principles), IEC 60417/60617 (graphical symbols), IEC 61310‑1 (indication/marking requirements), ISO 3864 (safety colours/signs), ISO 8201 (audible evacuation), and other IEC/ISO guidance relevant to man‑machine interfaces. Use IEC 60073 alongside these for comprehensive HMI safety and coding compliance.