ISO 1703:2018

Overview

ISO 1703:2018 - "Assembly tools for screws and nuts - Nomenclature" provides a standardized English nomenclature for tools used to assemble screws and nuts. This fourth edition (2018) updates and harmonizes terminology across commonly used hand and machine-operated tools, and includes informative annexes with French and other language equivalents. The standard supports consistent naming, documentation, procurement and technical communication for assembly tools, such as wrenches, sockets, screwdriver bits, screwdrivers and torque tools.

Key topics and technical requirements

• Scope and language: Official ISO terms are provided in English; Annex A gives the technically equivalent French terms. Annex B lists German, Italian, Spanish and Swedish equivalents for information only.
• Principle of designation: A systematic designation format is defined as A B CC DD E, where:
  • A = group of tools (1: wrenches, 2: sockets, 3: bits, 4: screwdrivers, 5: connecting parts, 6: driving parts, 7: torque tools)
  • B = hand (1) or machine (2) operation
  • CC = geometrical characteristics of the driven part (e.g., hexagon, slotted, recessed PH/PZ, spline, square)
  • DD = serial number
  • E = coating option (0 = standard, 1 = insulated for live working to IEC 60900)
• Tool categories and examples: Detailed nomenclature entries cover many specific types - single- and double-headed wrenches, adjustable wrenches, ratcheting types, square‑drive sockets (hand and machine), machine-operated bits and sockets, and torque tools.
• Updates in 2018 edition: Torque tools moved to a dedicated clause and updated per ISO 6789‑1; ratcheting wrenches and new driving-end types per ISO 2351 series were added; French designations moved to Annex A.

Applications

ISO 1703:2018 is practical for:

• Manufacturers and tool designers for consistent product naming and technical data sheets
• Purchasing and procurement teams to specify interchangeability and product families
• Technical authors and translators preparing manuals, catalogs and compliance documents
• Quality, maintenance and workshop managers ensuring correct tool selection and safe use (e.g., insulated tools for live working)
• Standards committees and conformity assessors aligning related ISO documents

Related standards

ISO 1703 is intended to harmonize with and reference other ISO standards for dimensional and performance requirements, including:

• ISO 2351 series (screwdriver bits)
• ISO 2725 (square drive sockets)
• ISO 6789‑1 (hand torque tools)
• ISO 8764 (screwdrivers)
• ISO 2936, ISO 3315–3317 (driving/adapter parts)

By adopting ISO 1703:2018, organizations achieve clearer cross-border communication, improved procurement accuracy, and better interoperability of assembly tools across industries.