The 2008 Annual Report submitted to ASTM International by the Trinidad and Tobago Bureau of Standards (TTBS) indicates that the memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed by the organizations in 2002 continues to be a success.

Established in 1974, the Trinidad and Tobago Bureau of Standards is a corporate body operating under of the Ministry of Trade and Industry and is responsible for the quality of goods and services that are subject to trade in the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago.

TTBS reported that, in 2008, two ASTM International standards were adopted as Trinidad and Tobago national standards, two ASTM standards were used as reference documents for government regulations, and 116 ASTM standards were consulted in the preparation of national standards.  The standards cover a wide variety of sectors, including petroleum products and lubricants, metals, steel, building and construction, paints and consumer products.  Currently, 25 individuals from Trinidad and Tobago participate in ASTM technical committees. 

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 #8233