This European Standard applies to water-tube boilers with volumes in excess of 2 litres for the generation of steam and/or hot water at an allowable pressure greater than 0,5 bar and with a temperature in excess of 110 °C as well as auxiliary installations (other plant equipment).

The purpose of this European Standard is to ensure that the hazards associated with the operation of water-tube boilers are reduced to a minimum and that adequate protection is provided to contain the hazards that still prevail when the water-tube boiler is put into service. This protection will be achieved by the proper application of the design, manufacturing, testing and inspection methods and techniques incorporated in the various parts of this European Standard. Where appropriate, adequate warning of residual hazards and the potential for misuse are given in the training and operating instructions and local to the equipment concerned (see prEN 12952‑8, prEN 12952‑9 and prEN 12952‑16).