Monthly Roundup: Environment, Health Protection, and Safety Standards from July 2025

Looking back at July 2025, the environment, health protection, and safety sector saw the publication of five pivotal standards. This monthly overview offers a retrospective synthesis for professionals seeking to stay current with advancements and regulatory requirements. The covered standards span from methods for optical reflection measurement in modern displays, to robust requirements for additive manufacturing equipment, fire-resistance testing for building columns, assessment of wildland fire impacts, and new performance thresholds for sprinkler system components. For industry leaders, compliance officers, and technical experts, understanding these evolving benchmarks is crucial for informed quality management and regulatory alignment.

Monthly Overview: July 2025

July 2025 represented a cross-section of the sector’s evolving priorities. The month’s publications reflected a deliberate focus on technological adaptation—taking into account both traditional safety engineering (e.g., fire protection and building resistance) and emerging challenges (such as environmental impacts from wildland fires and operational safety in additive manufacturing). The environment, health protection, and safety landscape continued to balance proven methodologies with cutting-edge advances: ergonomic evaluation of reflective displays accounted for usability and visibility in various conditions, while safety protocols kept pace with the risks of new manufacturing technologies and global environmental concerns.

This intensity of interdisciplinary activity demonstrates the ongoing integration of ergonomic metrics, operational safety, environmental stewardship, and emergency management into a cohesive framework. Compared with previous years—where publications often clustered around foundational safety or environmental test methods—the July 2025 suite was distinguished by its nuanced approach to risk, involving not only compliance, but also usability, resilience, and sustainability. These standards signal a sector in transition, where compliance with established requirements is increasingly informed by technical innovation and holistic risk management.

Standards Published This Month

ISO/TR 9241-313:2025 - Ergonomics of Human-System Interaction: Optical Measurement Methods for Reflective Displays

Ergonomics of human-system interaction – Part 313: Optical measurement methods for reflective displays

ISO/TR 9241-313:2025 delivered foundational methodologies for the optical measurement of modern reflective and emissive displays—including electrophoretic displays (EPDs). This technical report consolidates calculation methods for using measured reflection coefficients to predict display performance in both indoor and outdoor ambient conditions. By providing validated procedures for capturing specular, haze, and Lambertian reflection components, the standard equips display designers and evaluators with tools to assess how various lighting environments impact visibility and contrast.

The scope is broad: while its examples focus on EPDs (used in e-readers, signage, and wearables), many of the described measurement geometries apply to a wider variety of flat electronic displays. The document does not provide ergonomics evaluation methods per se, but serves as a technical foundation in the measurement pipeline—thereby supporting downstream usability and compliance activities. This report is particularly relevant to display engineers, testing laboratories, and manufacturers who require standardized, repeatable—yet context-sensitive—methods for predicting user-facing performance.

Key highlights:

• Validated measurement methods for specular and diffuse reflection under variable illumination geometries
• Calculation approaches for predicting ambient-light display contrast and usability
• Technical reference for manufacturers needing to quantify outdoor, high-glare, and variable lighting visibility

Access the full standard:View ISO/TR 9241-313:2025 on iTeh Standards

EN ISO/ASTM 52938-1:2025 - Additive Manufacturing of Metals – Environment, Health and Safety – Part 1: Safety Requirements for PBF-LB Machines

Additive manufacturing of metals – Environment, health and safety – Part 1: Safety requirements for PBF-LB machines (ISO/ASTM 52938-1:2025)

With additive manufacturing rapidly proliferating across advanced manufacturing, EN ISO/ASTM 52938-1:2025 addresses critical safety requirements for powder bed fusion-laser beam (PBF-LB) machines using metallic powders. The standard outlines technical and verification requirements, hazard identification protocols, and life-cycle risk management measures specific to these systems (excluding pyrophoric feedstocks and explosive atmospheres).

Structured to comply with the EU’s Machinery Directive (2006/42/EC) and leveraging presumption of conformity for essential safety requirements, the document connects technical clauses to regulatory obligations. It is directly relevant for AM machine manufacturers, integrators, installers, and facility safety officers who must ensure safe design, operation, and maintenance—from electrical and laser hazards, to containment, emissions, and access control. The standard’s adoption will also serve as a baseline for compliance audits, procurement specifications, and insurance reviews.

Key highlights:

• Comprehensive semi-quantitative hazard analysis and safety engineering requirements
• Verification methods for containment, emergency stops, and control system reliability
• Harmonization with European and international regulatory frameworks for machinery

Access the full standard:View EN ISO/ASTM 52938-1:2025 on iTeh Standards

ISO 834-7:2025 - Fire-Resistance Tests: Elements of Building Construction – Part 7: Specific Requirements for Columns

Fire-resistance tests – Elements of building construction – Part 7: Specific requirements for columns

The revised ISO 834-7:2025 presents robust, updated procedures for evaluating the fire resistance of building columns—a critical facet of structural safety in the built environment. The standard specifies two main test methods: Method A (for all column types with applied axial loads) and Method B (for protected steel columns without applied loads, focusing on temperature limits and protection efficacy).

Architects, civil/structural engineers, fire safety officers, and laboratory personnel benefit from delineated specimen preparation methods, boundary condition requirements, loading protocols, and clear interpretation of results. The revision improves clarity for the direct and extended field of application, including guidance for when protection systems are used solely for fire exposure (rather than structural support). The standard dovetails with ISO 834-1’s general requirements, offering direct applicability in fire safety design and regulatory submissions worldwide.

Key highlights:

• Improved definition of two testing methods to suit different structural scenarios
• Criteria and reporting guidelines for performance under fire, including protection system limits
• Expanded guidance on the direct and extended application to broader construction types

Access the full standard:View ISO 834-7:2025 on iTeh Standards

ISO/TS 19677:2025 - Assessing the Adverse Impact of Wildland Fires on Environment and People

Assessing the adverse impact of wildland fires on the environment and to people through environmental exposure

The scope and societal relevance of ISO/TS 19677:2025 are notable in the context of global climate change and escalating wildfire activity. This technical specification outlines methodologies for assessing short- and long-term environmental impacts of wildland fires—including air, water, soil, vegetation, wildlife, food production, and human populations (with particular focus on firefighter exposure). It integrates scientific approaches with guidance for post-fire mitigation and restoration, supporting incident commanders, investigators, public health authorities, and environmental agencies.

Organizations involved in land stewardship, emergency response, urban planning, and environmental impact assessment will benefit from systematic approaches to quantification, incident review, and mitigation planning. The specification interfaces with related standards in the ISO 26367 series, focusing on protocol development rather than direct data compilation or sampling methodologies.

Key highlights:

• Practical framework for assessment and mitigation of environmental impacts from wildland and prescribed fires
• Identification of impacts across ecological, infrastructural, and human health vectors
• Guidance for authorities and incident teams regarding strategic firefighting and post-fire restoration

Access the full standard:View ISO/TS 19677:2025 on iTeh Standards

ISO 6182-2:2025 - Fire Protection: Automatic Sprinkler Systems – Requirements and Test Methods for Alarm Valves, Check Valves, Water Motor Alarms and Related Devices

Fire protection – Automatic sprinkler systems – Part 2: Requirements and test methods for sprinkler system alarm valves, check valves, water motor alarms, retard devices and accelerators

ISO 6182-2:2025 revises and expands upon previous requirements for critical sprinkler system components—central to modern fire detection and suppression. It specifies requirements for wet alarm valves, retard devices, water motor alarms, dry pipe valves, accelerators, deluge and preaction valves, and check valves, along with mandatory performance, marking, and testing protocols.

This document serves designers, installers, fire safety engineers, manufacturers, and authorities having jurisdiction, who need to ensure system reliability, durability, and interoperability. Enhanced endurance, leakage prevention, corrosion resistance, and operational verification reflect the latest understanding of component failure modes and installation challenges. The document further clarifies marking, maintenance, and user information, creating tighter links between design and in-service performance.

Key highlights:

• Detailed requirements for various sprinkler system valve types and related devices
• Robust production testing, durability, and marking criteria for installation and maintenance
• Clear interface with ISO 6182-16, ISO 6182-17 for advanced valve types and integrations

Access the full standard:View ISO 6182-2:2025 on iTeh Standards

Common Themes and Industry Trends

The July 2025 publications highlight an industry continually adapting to a dynamic risk environment. Several cross-cutting themes emerge:

• Holistic Risk Assessment: Whether evaluating human-system interaction, advanced machinery, or environmental exposures, this month’s standards stress comprehensive risk identification and mitigation, bridging occupational safety with environmental and structural safety.
• Integration of New Technologies: Addressing additive manufacturing, reflective display measurement, and upgraded sprinkler system components presents the sector’s drive to formalize standards for new or evolving technologies.
• Environmental Resilience: The emphasis on wildland fire impacts—both direct and related to firefighting activities—signals a sector-wide awareness of environmental stewardship and climate risks.
• Regulatory Convergence: Harmonization with European and global safety directives (especially in machinery and fire safety) is evident, reinforcing the principle that international best practices are increasingly required at a local and organizational level.
• Advanced Testing and Verification: Refined laboratory and real-world test methodologies—seen in display reflectivity, column fire resistance, and component endurance—point to a demand for reproducibility and actionable benchmarking.

From regulatory affairs specialists to product designers, these trends are shaping compliance strategies and future-proofing investments.

Compliance and Implementation Considerations

Professionals and organizations impacted by July 2025’s standards should assess and act across several dimensions:

• Determine Applicability: Evaluate which new or updated standards affect your organization’s products, operations, or supply chain—especially if you manufacture displays, additive manufacturing systems, or fire suppression and building elements.
• Update Risk Assessments: Incorporate updated methodologies and hazard analyses into existing compliance frameworks, particularly for AM machinery and building fire safety.
• Plan for Transition: Review and align procurement, design, and production practices. Where compulsory (e.g., per the EU Machinery Directive), ensure declarations of conformity reference the revised standards.
• Invest in Training: Technical and operational staff should be briefed on new testing methodologies and operational requirements. Engage with industry forums, and consider training for in-house lab and field personnel on new measurement and test protocols.
• Leverage Resources: Utilize supporting documents, guidance, and checklists provided within the standards—including normative references to series such as ISO 26367, ISO 834, and ISO 9241 for expanded context or implementation examples.
• Compliance Timeline: Factor in a minimum 6–12 months for organizational transition, with interim audits or gap analyses. Early adopters position themselves for smoother regulatory audits and improved market access.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways from July 2025

July 2025 was marked by the publication of five strategically significant standards in environment, health protection, and safety. From advanced optical measurement for reflective displays and new risk-mitigation protocols for additive manufacturing machines, to updated fire-resistance assessment methods, expanded environmental impact evaluation for wildfires, and modernized requirements for sprinkler system valves, this month’s releases reflect an energetic, future-oriented sector.

Professionals in design, manufacturing, engineering, research, regulatory affairs, and emergency management should prioritize familiarization with these standards—not only for compliance, but to inform quality improvement and risk-mitigation decisions. Staying current with standards developments is an investment in both safety and operational excellence.

For those seeking detailed insights or full documents, visit iTeh Standards for comprehensive access to these and other critical standards.