EN 1655:1997

Overview

EN 1655:1997 (CEN) - Copper and copper alloys - Declarations of conformity - sets out the framework for issuing and receiving declarations of conformity for copper and copper alloy products. The standard specifies the criteria for four types of declarations available to purchasers, defines minimum content requirements for each type, and establishes criteria related to the competence of suppliers who issue these declarations. For inspection-document definitions, EN 10204 is referenced.

Key topics

• Scope of declarations: Defines the availability and purpose of four distinct declaration types for copper and copper alloy products.
• Minimum content requirements: Specifies the essential information each declaration must contain (e.g., clear statement of conformity and identifying information) to be accepted by purchasers and regulators.
• Supplier competence: Establishes criteria that suppliers must meet to issue valid declarations of conformity, addressing responsibilities and authority to certify product conformity.
• Reference to inspection documents: Notes the relationship to EN 10204, which defines types of inspection documents and complements EN 1655 for document classification and verification.

Applications

EN 1655 is practical for organizations and stakeholders involved in the production, procurement, testing, and certification of copper and copper alloy products, including:

• Suppliers and manufacturers issuing conformity declarations to customers.
• Purchasers and procurement teams who require validated conformity evidence as part of contracts or quality requirements.
• Quality managers and compliance officers implementing product conformity and supplier qualification processes.
• Specifiers and engineers who reference conformity documentation in technical specifications and tender documents.
• Inspection bodies and testing laboratories that support suppliers by producing test data used in declarations.

Benefits of applying EN 1655 include clearer contractual documentation, improved traceability of conformity claims, reduced commercial disputes, and a more consistent approach to supplier competence and declaration content.

Related standards

• EN 10204 - Defines types of inspection documents and should be consulted alongside EN 1655 for inspection-document classification and interpretation.
• CEN framework and national adaptations (e.g., SIST EN 1655:1998) - check local transpositions for national implementation details.

Using EN 1655 helps ensure that declarations of conformity for copper and copper alloys are consistent, auditable, and aligned with recognized European practice in material conformity and supplier competence.