Why implement SN EN ISO 24664:2025 now

Implementing SN EN ISO 24664:2025 is crucial for organizations in the Energy & Heat Transfer industry, particularly due to increasing customer demands for safety and regulatory standards. The standard offers a structured approach to ensure that pressure relief devices and their associated piping are correctly calculated and maintained, thereby minimizing risks associated with refrigerating systems and heat pumps. Factors such as regulatory pressures, customer requirements, and internal quality goals are typical triggers that encourage organizations to adopt these compliance requirements as a proactive measure in their operational strategies.

Prerequisites and readiness check

Before embarking on the journey to comply with SN EN ISO 24664:2025, organizations should ensure they have the following in place:

• Management Commitment: Strong support and leadership from management to prioritize compliance.
• Resource Allocation: Sufficient financial and human resources dedicated to the project.
• Current Process Documentation: Up-to-date records of existing processes relating to refrigerating systems and pressure relief devices.
• Staff Awareness: Employees should be informed about the upcoming changes and the importance of compliance.
• Risk Assessment Tools: Tools and methodologies for evaluating current risks and gaps in existing systems.

Step 1: Gap analysis

Performing a gap analysis is essential to identify discrepancies between current practices and the requirements outlined in SN EN ISO 24664:2025. Begin by gathering inputs such as existing documentation and procedures. The process involves evaluating each aspect of pressure relief devices, including mass flow calculations, discharge capacities, and pressure drop assessments. Typical findings might include inadequate documentation or insufficient training. Using tools like checklists and comparison matrices can help streamline this phase. The output should be a clear report highlighting areas needing improvement to meet the compliance requirements, ensuring that all stakeholders understand the necessary changes.

Step 2: Design and documentation

Documenting the management system in accordance with SN EN ISO 24664:2025 involves creating a comprehensive framework that outlines the organization's scope, policies, objectives, and procedures. Start with a scope statement that defines the extent of the management system, followed by a policy that articulates the organization's commitment to compliance. Establish clear objectives that align with the standard's requirements, such as ensuring proper mass flow rates and discharge capacities. Develop detailed procedures for operational processes, referencing the relevant clauses of SN EN ISO 24664:2025, such as those relating to pressure drop calculations and the impact of heat sources. Maintain records to document compliance efforts, facilitating a transparent audit process. This structured documentation will aid in both internal assessments and external certifications.

Step 3: Implementation and training

Rolling out the management system requires careful change management and comprehensive staff training. Engage employees early in the process to foster a culture of compliance and safety. Training sessions should cover the specifics of SN EN ISO 24664:2025, focusing on mass flow calculations, pressure relief device selection criteria, and the implications of thermal expansion. Common pitfalls include inadequate training or resistance to change, which can undermine the implementation process. To mitigate these risks, establish clear communication channels and provide ongoing support to staff as they adapt to new protocols and practices.

Step 4: Internal audit and certification

The internal audit serves as a critical check on the effectiveness of the compliance efforts. Schedule the audit to coincide with key project milestones, ensuring thorough documentation is available for review. The certification audit typically consists of two stages: Stage 1 involves reviewing documentation to ensure it meets ISO 24664:2024 compliance requirements, while Stage 2 assesses the actual implementation of processes. Prepare for potential findings by conducting a pre-audit assessment to identify and address any shortcomings before the official audit. This proactive approach can significantly enhance the likelihood of a successful certification outcome.

Common pitfalls

When implementing ISO 24664:2024 compliance requirements, organizations often encounter several common pitfalls:

• Insufficient Management Support: Ensure management is engaged and committed to the process.
• Lack of Staff Training: Invest in extensive training programs to familiarize staff with compliance requirements.
• Incomplete Documentation: Maintain thorough documentation to aid in audits and compliance checks.
• Ignoring Internal Feedback: Actively seek and incorporate feedback from staff involved in the processes.
• Underestimating Resource Needs: Allocate adequate resources, including time and budget, for successful implementation.