Something established by authority, custom, or general consent as a model or example; Something set up and established by authority as a rule for the measure of quantity, weight, extent, value, or quality. (Merriam-Webster Online)
A technical standard is usually a formal document that establishes uniform engineering or technical criteria, methods, processes and practices. (Wikipedia)
ISO/IEC Guide 2:2004 defines a standard as a document, established by consensus and approved by a recognized body, that provides, for common and repeated use, rules, guidelines or characteristics for activities or their results, aimed at the achievement of the optimum degree of order in a given context.
The term "standard," or "technical standard" as cited in the NTTAA includes all of the following:
Here are some links to free standards available through the UF Libraries and online:
* Current IEEE standards are online through the IEEE/IEE Electronic Library (IEL). Use VPN or UF wireless on your device. Under the drop down menu next to the search box, click on standards.
* ASTM Standards are online. Use VPN or UF wireless on your device.
* ANSI Standards (American National Standards Institute) Incorporated by Reference (IBR) portal provides access to standards that have been incorporated by reference in the U.S. Code of federal Regulations (CFR) are offered at no cost in “read only” format for online reading. There are no print or download options.
* UL Standards (Underwriters Laboratory). Under UL Alternative Documents link, you can read them for free online.
* NFPA Standards (National Fire Protection Association). Under codes and standards drop down menu, look for the link Free access.
* 2007 ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, Section II - Materials online via Knovel.
* Remember most government standards are also free, such as NASA standards.
Q: Why are standards important?
From ANSI FAQ:
A: Standards play an important role in everyday life. They may establish size or shape or capacity of a product, process or system. They can specify performance of products or personnel. They also can define terms so that there is no misunderstanding among those using the standard.
As examples, standards help ensure that hoses fit on to spigots, that a light bulb fits a socket, and plugs for electrical appliances fit outlets throughout the U.S. With standards, our homes, workplaces and public buildings are safer from collapse, fire and explosion.
From History of ASME Standards:
A: In 1884 ASME launched its first published standard, for the uniformity for testing methods of boilers. After that, the society turned its attention to pipes and pipe thread. Non-standardized pipe thread contributed to the Great Chicago Fire, the great Baltimore fire and others, as fire companies found their hose couplings wouldn’t fit hydrants outside their specific location.
Standards remind us to use a round peg in a round hole!
Industry - developed by a particular industry to manage related products and services. May be developed through consensus.
Government - standards developed by any governmental organization for its own uses.
Legally-mandated - such as pharmaceuticals
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