Australia AS/NZS 62368.1:2026 Update
- 3 days ago
- 2 min read
The Australia AS/NZS 62368.1:2026 update introduces the latest revision of the safety standard governing audio/video (AV), information technology (IT), and communication technology (ICT) equipment.
Published by Standards Australia and Standards New Zealand, this standard aligns with IEC 62368-1, reinforcing global harmonization.
Australia AS/NZS 62368.1:2026 Update – Key Changes
1. Full Alignment with IEC Framework
Adoption of the latest IEC 62368-1 edition
Facilitates global market access and mutual recognition
2. Hazard-Based Safety Engineering (HBSE)
Transition from prescriptive rules to risk-based safety evaluation
Focus on:
Energy sources
Safeguards
User exposure
3. Expanded Scope
The standard applies to:
Consumer electronics
Telecom and networking equipment
ICT infrastructure
Hybrid and multifunction devices
4. Updated Technical Requirements
Enhanced rules for:
Electrical safety
Thermal performance
Mechanical hazards
Stronger requirements for:
Batteries
Power supplies
Fire enclosures
5. Coverage of Emerging Technologies
IoT devices
Smart electronics
Converged AV/ICT systems
Transition from Legacy Standards
The update continues replacing:
IEC 60950-1 (IT equipment)
IEC 60065 (AV equipment)
Manufacturers must ensure all new products comply with the 62368.1 framework, particularly for RCM marking and market access in Australia.
What This Means for Manufacturers
Mandatory transition to hazard-based safety engineering principles
Need for product redesign or gap assessments
Updated compliance documentation:
Risk analysis
Safety engineering reports
Possible retesting requirements
Increased scrutiny on:
Lithium batteries
Power systems
Fire protection
Certification Impact Summary
Area | Impact |
Product Design | Must align with HBSE methodology |
Testing | New or updated test methods required |
Documentation | More detailed risk-based evidence needed |
Certification | Re-evaluation of existing approvals |
Market Access | Alignment simplifies global compliance |
Timeline + Required Actions
Immediate (2026)
Review the Australia AS/NZS 62368.1:2026 update requirements
Conduct gap analysis against current certifications
Short-Term
Update technical files and safety documentation
Plan and perform additional testing if required
Mid-Term
Transition all product lines to the new standard
Coordinate with certification bodies and labs
Ongoing
Monitor regulatory enforcement and compliance schemes (RCM)
Maintain updated documentation for audits
The adoption of this updated standard highlights Australia’s continued alignment with international safety frameworks, ensuring consistency with global markets while strengthening product safety requirements.
