Overview
ISO/TR 15847:2008 - "Graphic technology - Graphical symbols for printing press systems and finishing systems, including related auxiliary equipment" provides a recommended set of graphical symbols for use on or near controls in printing and finishing equipment. Intended for pushbuttons, touchscreens, keypads and other control surfaces, the Technical Report standardizes symbol meaning, design and placement to improve operator usability, safety and international interoperability.
Key topics and technical requirements
- Scope and purpose: Symbols identify function, use or state (condition/mode) of controls on printing press systems, finishing systems and related auxiliary equipment.
- Design rules:
- Minimum symbol size 10 mm × 10 mm (larger may be required for pixel/legibility).
- Text integrated into symbols: minimum 4 mm character height.
- Two-dimensional, high-contrast, positive layouts (filled outlines preferred).
- Symbols should represent the actuated condition.
- Placement and orientation:
- Symbols placed on or adjacent to the control element with consistent panel layout.
- Orientation follows the representations in the Technical Report; some symbols may be mirrored when explicitly permitted.
- Organization:
- Symbols grouped into logical categories (Groups 0–6): Basic, Operation-related, Screen-related, Process-related, Design/component, Job-related and Safety.
- Annex A shows how basic symbols can be combined to form more complex symbols.
- Submission and revision:
- Annex B describes how to propose new symbols for future inclusion; proposals are reviewed by ISO/TC 130.
- Reference alignment:
Applications and who uses it
ISO/TR 15847:2008 is practical for:
- OEMs and machine designers standardizing control panels and HMI layouts for presses and finishing equipment.
- HMI/UX designers building touchscreens and keypads for printing systems.
- Maintenance and operations staff who rely on consistent symbols for quick identification of controls and states.
- Safety and compliance teams seeking to reduce language dependence and improve operator safety.
- Technical writers and training developers producing manuals and on-machine labeling.
Practical benefits include improved international interoperability, reduced operator errors, clearer maintenance procedures and simplified localization.
Related standards
- IEC 80416-1 / ISO 80416-2 - basic principles for graphical symbols and arrows
- ISO 7000 / IEC 60417 - repositories of equipment symbols referenced in the report
- ISO/TC 130 - technical committee for graphic technology and future symbol review
Keywords: ISO/TR 15847:2008, graphical symbols, printing press systems, finishing systems, equipment controls, pushbuttons, touchscreens, ISO 7000, IEC 80416.
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