According to a recent annual report, a memorandum of understanding signed between the Instituto de Normas Técnicas de Costa Rica (INTECO) and ASTM International in 2005 continues to benefit both organizations.

Formed in 1987, the Instituto de Normas Técnicas de Costa Rica oversees all standards activities and promotes the quality of goods and services in Costa Rica.  The use of ASTM International standards has continued to grow in Costa Rica, and 14 ASTM standards were referenced in the development of Costa Rican national standards over the past year. 

The majority of the referenced ASTM standards used by INTECO this year were in the cement and concrete sector, however, INTECO has also referenced ASTM standards for petroleum, roofing, temperature measurement and mechanical testing. In addition, INTECO is utilizing the ASTM Standards Tracker tool available on the ASTM Web site, which allows users in Costa Rica to receive the most up-to-date information about current ASTM International standards.

Initiated in 2001, ASTM International's MOU program promotes communication between ASTM International and national standards bodies worldwide, fostering awareness of the standardization systems of all parties involved. The purpose of the program is to increase greater worldwide participation in the ASTM standards development process and facilitate the development of national standards that will aid health, safety, and environmental and economic conditions. More information on the MOU program can be found on the ASTM International Web site (www.astm.org/GLOBAL).

Release #8332