Overview of International Electrotechnical Commission Technical Committee 87 ultrasound organization and standards

Abstract

The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) is the world’s leading organization that prepares and publishes International Standards for all electrical, electronic and related technologies. It comprises Technical Committees (TCs) and Subcommittees (SCs) that oversee standards development in all areas of technology. Particular to ultrasound medical devices, TC 87, Ultrasonics, is responsible for preparing standards related to measurement methods, field characterization, and safety concerns, but excluding safety and essential performance standards for equipment and systems. Responsibility for the latter falls under TC 62, Electrical Equipment in Medical Practice. SC 62B in TC 62 is in charge of all diagnostic imaging equipment and related devices, including ultrasound, and SC 62D deals with all electromedical equipment used in medical practice other than diagnostic imaging, such as ultrasound therapeutic and surgical devices. This presentation will discuss the safety standards, measurement standards, maintenance/performance documents and structure and distribution of work in TC 87 and SC62B and SC62D as an introduction to the more specific talks following.