Overview - EN ISO 17480:2018 / ISO 17480:2015
EN ISO 17480:2018 (identical to ISO 17480:2015) defines requirements and recommendations for accessible packaging design with a focus on ease of opening. It applies to reclosable and non‑reclosable consumer packaging that does not rely on other mechanical opening aids. The standard addresses design features (opening location, opening methods, reclosure) and evaluation techniques, including both instrument‑based and user‑based testing. It is intended primarily for packaging designers, developers and evaluators, and notes that product safety regulations (e.g., for toxic goods, medicines, medical devices) take precedence.
Key topics and technical requirements
- Scope and applicability
- Applies to consumer packaging (sales units to end users) for openability design.
- Excludes cases where other mechanical means are used; regulated product rules override this standard.
- Accessible design principles
- Opening strength: nominal opening force should be achievable by intended users and kept as low as possible without compromising integrity.
- Dexterity: opening mechanisms must be usable by a wide range of hand sizes, strength and manual capability.
- Cognition: opening method and location must be readily understood through visual and tactile cues.
- Design elements
- Opening location: differentiated by visual markings (pictograms, color, font) and tactile cues (notches, embossing, texture).
- Opening methods: intuitive, smooth operation, minimize spillage and injury risk.
- Reclosing: clear and usable reclosure methods for reclosable packages.
- Evaluation approaches
- Instrument‑based evaluation: quantitative measurement (force, torque, friction, etc.) to compare designs.
- User‑based evaluation: panel tests and observational methods to capture sensory, physical and cognitive user responses.
- Supporting guidance
- Annexes provide examples of opening types, mechanical tests, human strength/dexterity data, consumer panel test methods, cognition guidance, and checklists for designers and conformance.
Applications - who uses this standard
- Packaging designers and engineers - to create accessible, easy‑to‑open packages.
- Product developers and brand owners - to evaluate user experience and reduce returns/complaints.
- Quality and regulatory teams - to document conformance with accessibility best practices (not replacing safety regulations).
- User researchers and test labs - to combine instrumented testing with user panels for validation.
Related standards and notes
- Adopted by CEN as EN ISO 17480:2018, superseding CEN/TS 15945:2011.
- Developed by ISO/TC 122 “Packaging” and CEN/TC 261 “Packaging”.
- Normative references include ISO packaging vocabulary documents (see standard text for details).
Keywords: EN ISO 17480:2018, ISO 17480:2015, accessible packaging, ease of opening, openability, instrument‑based evaluation, user‑based evaluation, opening strength, dexterity, packaging design.