Technical experts from small and medium-sized companies comprise more than half of the individuals participating in developing ASTM International standards, according to internal research conducted by ASTM in advance of National Small Business Week, which takes place May 20-26, 2012.
The participation of small and medium companies in standards development is crucial. Standards — technical documents that help ensure product safety, quality and interoperability — facilitate trade and form the backbone of worldwide legislation and regulations. Likewise, these companies fuel economies, provide a majority of private sector jobs and training opportunities for workers; account for half or more of gross domestic product in Europe and the U.S., and play a key role in innovation and R&D. Input from small and medium companies into the development of standards is essential to ensuring that these technical documents include the latest technology and best practices.
“At a time when policymakers are looking for ways to boost the engagement of small and medium companies in international standards development, I am pleased to report that they continue to be actively engaged in contributing to the technical content of ASTM standards,” says James A. Thomas, president of ASTM International. “Small and medium-sized companies play a critical role in today’s global economic infrastructure and their voice and technical expertise is crucial as ASTM International works to meet the standards demands of today’s marketplace.”
ASTM International provides Web-based resources that enable participation in standards development regardless of a small or medium-sized company’s travel, time or budgetary restrictions. While ASTM technical committees meet in person biannually to develop standards, committee members can also use a suite of online standards development tools, including online forums, virtual meetings, electronic balloting and more. These tools not only enhance the capability of these individuals to participate in ASTM’s standards development, but allow the more timely development of needed standards.
This balanced representation is a hallmark of ASTM International, where businesses in a range of sizes join representatives from government, academia and consumers to develop standards applied the world over. Jim Seay, chairman of ASTM Committee F24 on Amusement Rides and Devices and owner of the high-tech amusement ride designer and supplier Premier Rides, Baltimore, Md., noted in his Feb. 29, 2012, testimony before U.S. Congress, “For a small company like Premier, the key principle to effective standards participation is fair treatment for all. At ASTM, Premier does get — as a small business — fair treatment. The ASTM committee structure ensures balanced participation from stakeholders.” Seay continued, “I can honestly say without fair global standards that ensure a high level of quality and safety, Premier would not be delivering equipment internationally. Simply put, the standards level the playing field.”
ASTM International welcomes and encourages participation in the development of its standards. For more information on becoming an ASTM member, visit www.astm.org/JOIN.
ASTM Staff Contact: Jeffrey Grove, Phone: +1-202-223-8505; jgrove@astm.org
ASTM PR Contact: Barbara Schindler, Phone: +1-610-832-9603; bschindl@astm.org
Release #9198