our approach aimed at maximizing productivity & efficiency.
Human Factors and Usability under EU MDR/IVDR
The European Union Medical Device Regulation (EU MDR 2017/745) and the In Vitro Diagnostic Medical Device Regulation (EU IVDR 2017/746) place strong emphasis on human factors and usability engineering as integral parts of device safety and performance. Both regulations recognise that many adverse events and device related incidents are caused not by technical malfunctions but by use errors linked to poor design, unclear instructions, or failure to consider the abilities and limitations of the intended users.
To address this, MDR and IVDR require manufacturers to demonstrate that devices are designed and manufactured in a way that ensures safe, effective, and intuitive use across the full range of intended users whether healthcare professionals, patients, or lay-man and within the environments where the devices will be used, such as hospitals, laboratories, or home settings. These requirements are reflected in the General Safety and Performance Requirements (Annex I) of both regulations, which specifically call for usability considerations in areas like labeling, instructions for use, device interface, and risk control.
Compliance is closely tied to standards such as ISO 62366-1 (Usability Engineering for Medical Devices) and ISO 14971 (Risk Management), ensuring that usability is systematically evaluated throughout design, risk management, and clinical evaluation. For IVDs, usability plays a crucial role in preventing misinterpretation of test results, ensuring that lay users and professionals alike can operate devices correctly and consistently.
In short, under EU MDR and IVDR, human factors and usability are not optional, they are mandatory requirements that must be addressed in the technical documentation, risk management files, and clinical/performance evaluation reports to achieve CE certification.
MDR 2017/745 Requirements on Human Factors & Usability
predictive machines
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certified factory
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service related FAQ’s
- Improved Document Control
- Effective Audit Management
- Better Employee Training Programs
- Better Risk Management
- Efficient Tracking and Reporting
- Improved Supplier Quality
- Robust CAPA Processes
Key standards include:
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ISO 62366-1 – Usability engineering for medical devices.
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ISO 14971 – Risk management for medical devices.
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IEC 60601-1-6 – Usability requirements for medical electrical equipment.
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ISO 20916 – Performance studies for IVDs.
All MDD-certified devices must transition to MDR compliance by the applicable deadline. Significant changes to the product or intended use may require a full MDR re-certification.
All medical device manufacturers intending to sell devices in the EU, including Class I, IIa, IIb, and III must comply with the MDR.
Yes. If your company is based outside the EEA and wishes to market medical devices or IVDs in Europe, it is legally required to appoint an EC REP. This representative’s name and address must appear on the product labeling, outer packaging, or Instructions for Use (IFU).
