When it comes to ensuring safety and efficiency in various industries, ASTM International is at the forefront of standards development. With a membership of over 30,000 individuals from 140 countries, ASTM International has been creating and publishing guidelines and standards that have been used as benchmarks for the testing and certification of products and services worldwide.
One of the most exciting developments in recent years has been the rise of pilotless aircraft. Also known as drones, these vehicles are increasingly being used in a wide range of applications, from delivering packages to surveying land. However, ensuring their safety and reliability requires adherence to strict standards and certification requirements. ASTM International has been working with regulators and manufacturers to develop the necessary guidelines for autonomous flight, paving the way for a future where pilotless aircraft are an everyday reality.
Another important area of focus for ASTM International is certification preparation. With the API 510 certification being a key requirement for those working in the oil and gas industry, ASTM International has developed live and online courses to help candidates prepare for the exam. These courses cover key topics such as inspection codes, pressure vessel calculations, and flaw evaluation, providing participants with the knowledge they need to pass the certification exam.
Standards and certification are also essential to the performance of buildings. Members of the Performance of Buildings Committee at ASTM International recognize the importance of these guidelines in ensuring safety and sustainability in the built environment. Through the development of standards such as E2947-18, which provides a framework for identifying and addressing issues related to indoor air quality, the committee is helping to ensure that buildings are not only structurally sound, but also healthy for their inhabitants.
The medical marijuana industry is another area where standards development is increasingly important. As attitudes toward cannabis use and legalization continue to evolve, ASTM International's Committee on Cannabis has been working to develop the necessary guidelines for testing and certification of cannabis and cannabis-related products. This includes standards such as D8196-18, which outlines the necessary steps for ensuring accurate labeling and packaging of cannabis products.
In January 2019, the West African International Petroleum Exhibition and Conference will see over 6,000 attendees and more than 300 companies come together to share best practices and explore new technologies in the oil and gas industry. ASTM International will be among the exhibitors, showcasing its latest products and services, including ASTM SpecBuilder. This innovative software helps organizations develop internal documents more efficiently, tracking comments and automating voting, all while reducing time to publication.
At its core, ASTM International is committed to developing standards and guidelines that make industries safer, more efficient, and more sustainable. Whether it's the rise of pilotless aircraft, the importance of certification preparation, or the need for sustainable building practices, ASTM International is paving the way for safer and more efficient industries across the board. With a strong focus on innovation and collaboration, it's clear that ASTM International will continue to be a leading force in global standards development for years to come.