Catalogue number (REF)
The standard’s wording, as the sources below reproduce it:
“Indicates the manufacturer’s catalogue number so that the medical device can be identified.”
ISO 15223-1:2021, 5.1.6 · ISO 7000-2493
What it means for you
REF is the product code: the same for every box of this product in this size or variant. Use it to reorder the right item or to tell a pharmacy exactly which version you have — for example which size of dressing or which strip type fits your meter.
Whether a device is right for you is a question for your pharmacist, nurse or doctor.
- What it looks like
- The letters REF inside a rectangle, followed by the maker’s product code.
- Where you see it
- Device boxes and pouches, spare parts, test kits and meter accessories, usually near the product name.
- Other names
- catalog number; reference number; reorder number; product code; REF
What it does not tell you
It does not identify your individual unit or its batch: two boxes with the same REF can come from different lots. For a recall, the LOT or SN is the number that matters.
Often confused with
Indicates the model number or type number of a product.
More symbols in “Letters”
Sources
ISO 15223-1 is a paid standard, so the wording above is quoted as 3 publishers’ public documents reproduce it. Each was fetched and read on the date shown:
- Boston Scientific: Symbols Glossary — ISO 15223-1 5.1.6 “Catalog number — Indicates the manufacturer’s catalogue number so that the medical device can be identified. NOTE: Synonyms … are ‘commercial product name’, ‘commercial product code’, stock keeping unit, ‘reference number’ and ‘reorder number’.” Image labelled ISO 7000-2493. Checked 2026-09-25.
- NE Scientific: Master Symbol Glossary (CTF-100011 Rev 01) — Shows REF in a box for reference no. 5.1.6 (ISO 7000-2493), “Catalog number”. Checked 2026-09-25.
- Stago: Glossary of symbols (520233-A_EN) — “Catalogue number — Indicates the manufacturer’s catalogue number so that the medical device can be identified. NF EN ISO 15223-1, symbol #5.1.6.” Checked 2026-09-25.
Plain-language parts are in our own words; quotations are the sources’ wording.