SN EN 1789+A1:2024 - Medical Vehicles and Their Equipment: Road Ambulances

SN EN 1789+A1:2024

Rettungsdienstfahrzeuge und deren Ausrüstung - Krankenkraftwagen

Medical vehicles and their equipment - Road ambulances

INB

This European Standard specifies requirements for the design, testing, performance and equipping of road ambulances used for the transport, monitoring, treatment and care of patients. It contains requirements for the patient’s compartment in terms of the working environment, ergonomic design and the safety of the crew and patients.This European Standard does not cover the training of the staff which is the responsibility of the authority/authorities in the country where the ambulance is to be registered. This European Standard is applicable to road ambulances capable of transporting at least one person on a stretcher and excludes the transportation of hospital beds. This standard also specifies requirements for ambulances intended to carry transport incubator systems. The European Standard covers the specific requirements of each type of road ambulance which are designated according to the patient condition e.g. patient transport road ambulance types A1, A2, B and C. This European Standard gives general requirements for medical devices carried in road ambulances and used therein and outside hospitals and clinics in situations where the ambient conditions can differ from normal indoor conditions.

Publikation: 2024-01-0163 SeitenICS: 43.160, 11.160
This European Standard, SN EN 1789+A1:2024, provides comprehensive requirements for the design, testing, performance, and equipping of road ambulances utilized in patient transport and care. It is applicable to various types of road ambulances and outlines specifications that ensure the safety and effectiveness of both the crew and the patients during transport.

=== SECTION 1 ===

What SN EN 1789+A1:2024 covers

SN EN 1789+A1:2024 delineates the standards for the design, testing, and performance of road ambulances, focusing on their role in transporting, monitoring, treating, and caring for patients. The standard specifies requirements for the patient compartment, including environmental conditions, ergonomic design, and safety features for both patients and crew. It is important to note that the standard does not include training requirements for medical staff, which are governed by national regulations. Furthermore, it pertains to ambulances capable of transporting at least one person on a stretcher and excludes the transportation of hospital beds. The standard also addresses ambulances designed to transport incubator systems, ensuring that each type of ambulance meets specific needs based on patient conditions.

=== SECTION 2 ===

Who needs to comply with SN EN 1789+A1:2024

The primary audience for SN EN 1789+A1:2024 includes manufacturers of road ambulances, healthcare providers, and regulatory authorities within the Road Vehicles industry. This standard is particularly relevant for organizations involved in the design, production, or modification of ambulances, as well as those responsible for their operation. Additionally, compliance is essential for entities seeking to ensure the safety and efficacy of ambulance services, including private ambulance companies, hospitals, and public health agencies. Companies of all sizes, from small manufacturers to large healthcare organizations, will find value in adhering to these standards to enhance patient care and safety.

=== SECTION 3 ===

Key requirements

  • Design Requirements: Road ambulances must be designed to provide a safe and effective environment for patient care, including considerations for space and accessibility.
  • Testing and Performance Criteria: Ambulances must undergo rigorous testing to ensure they meet performance standards for safety and reliability during patient transport.
  • Patient Compartment Specifications: Requirements are established for the patient compartment, focusing on the working environment, including temperature control and ventilation.
  • Safety Requirements: The standard outlines necessary safety features for both patients and crew, including securement of medical equipment and emergency protocols.
  • Ergonomic Design Considerations: Attention must be paid to ergonomics to ensure that both patients and crew can operate within the ambulance comfortably and safely.
  • Requirements for Medical Devices: Ambulances must be equipped with medical devices that are suitable for use in varying ambient conditions outside of typical hospital environments.

These requirements are typically audited through a combination of documentation reviews and on-site inspections to ensure compliance.

=== SECTION 4 ===

How to implement SN EN 1789+A1:2024

Implementing SN EN 1789+A1:2024 involves several key steps that organizations should follow to ensure compliance. First, a gap analysis should be conducted to identify areas that require adjustment to meet the standard's requirements. Next, comprehensive documentation should be developed, including design specifications, testing protocols, and operational procedures. Following this, training sessions should be held for staff to familiarize them with the new standards and procedures. An internal audit is then recommended to assess compliance and identify any potential areas for improvement. Finally, organizations can prepare for a certification audit to validate their adherence to the standard. Each of these steps is crucial for ensuring that road ambulances are safe, effective, and compliant with SN EN 1789+A1:2024.

=== SECTION 5 ===

Related standards

  • ISO 9001: This standard outlines quality management principles that can be applied to the manufacture and operation of road ambulances, ensuring quality control in processes.
  • ISO 13485: Focused on medical devices, this standard complements SN EN 1789+A1:2024 by specifying requirements for quality management systems in the medical device sector, particularly for equipment used in ambulances.
  • EN 1787: This standard provides requirements for the safety of medical devices in road vehicles, enhancing the safety measures outlined in SN EN 1789+A1:2024.
  • EN 62368-1: This standard addresses the safety of audio/video, information, and communication technology equipment, relevant for integrated systems in ambulances.

=== SECTION 6 ===

Why SN EN 1789+A1:2024 matters

Adhering to SN EN 1789+A1:2024 is essential for organizations to gain a competitive advantage in the healthcare market, ensure legal compliance, and enhance patient trust and safety. By aligning with this standard, companies can improve their operational efficiency and market access, ultimately contributing to better healthcare outcomes. Explore the training and purchase options available below to ensure your organization is compliant and equipped for success.

SWITEC — Schweizerisches Informationszentrum für technische Regeln

Benötigen Sie Unterstützung bei der Recherche zu technischen Regelwerken? SWITEC, ein Service der SNV, bietet weltweite Recherchen über nationale, europäische und internationale Normen und Vorschriften.

Mehr erfahren auf switec.info

Last updated: April 15, 2026