What Are ISO Codes For?
The International Organization for Standardization chose the name ISO to be used on a worldwide basis. ISO, meaning equal, was designed to overcome the confusion of using acronyms in different languages. ISO standards or codes ensure that the services or products offered by organizations and businesses possess the desirable characteristics that we require. These include safety, quality, reliability, environmental friendliness and interchangeability at an affordable price (see References 1, 2, 3 and 4.)
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Recognising the Code
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An ISO code or standard is published in A4 format, the length of which could be anywhere from a four-page document to one that is several hundred pages long. These standards or codes are also available as electronic downloads. Each ISO standard is identifiable through the ISO logo.
Scope of the Standards
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In excess of 18,000 International Standards exist. These codes include standards for mechanical engineering, agriculture, medical devices, information and communication technologies, as well as standards for correct management practices and for services. ISO codes aid trade between different countries. These standards ensure that the manufacturing of products is handled in an efficient, clean and safe manner. ISO codes establish a technical base for governments regarding environmental legislation, safety and health issues. These codes also allow for technical advances to be shared and to safeguard users.
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Generic Codes
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Although ISO standards are typically specific to specific processes or products, ISO 9001, which is a quality standard, and ISO 14001, which is an environmental one, are termed generic management system standards. These standards can therefore be applied to any organization, regardless of its size and its type of product or service. ISO 9001 holds a generic set of requirements for applying a quality management system, while ISO 14001 holds a generic set of requirements for an environmental management system.
New Standards
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Industry or business discusses its needs regarding a standard with an ISO national member, who subsequently proposes the request to ISO as a whole. ISO will then initiate the development of new standards in response to these requests. An existing technical committee is then assigned by ISO to develop the required standard. This technical committee is highly specific and specialized and is assisted in its task by one or more of the three general policy development committees, who are tasked with providing guidance by ensuring that the technical aspects are aligned with the broader market interests. These three committees are Conformity Assessment (CASCO), Consumer Policy (COPOLCO) and Developing Country Matters (DEVCO).
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