USNC solicits public comment regarding U.S. participation in IECEx Scheme

The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) is the administrator and coordinator of private sector voluntary standards development. This Institute is a private, nonprofit organization supported by a diverse membership of private and public organizations. ANSI-accredited standards developers are committed to the development of American National Standards through an open-consensus process. ANSI is the sole U.S. representative and dues-paying member, via the U.S. National Committee (USNC), to the IEC. The USNC is responsible for U.S. representation in the IEC Technical Committees, and other electrotechnical bodies associated with the IEC, such as the conformity assessment Scheme committees IECEE (CB Scheme) and IECEx.

In the Feb. 25, 2000, issue of the American National Standards Institute Standards Action (pages 32-33), the U.S. National Committee of the IECEE (USNC/IECEE) submitted a proposal for U.S. participation in the IECEx Scheme. This submission for public comment by the USNC/IECEE was in response to a request from the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA). Public comment was invited regarding the feasibility of having the U.S. participate in the IECEx Scheme, and was directed toward U.S. explosive atmosphere equipment manufacturers, regulators or authorities having jurisdiction (AHJs), and testing and certification organizations. Comments on the proposal were due by March 31, 2000.

UL submitted an affirmative comment, and was asked to assist other organizations in developing their comments.

The public comments received by ANSI, and the prospect of joining the IECEx Scheme, were subsequently discussed at the USNC/IECEE meeting hosted by NEMA in April, 2000. Based on the overwhelming support received, it was decided to pursue the IECEx Scheme for the United States. A Working Group was formed to explore the issue and develop a recommendation to the IECEE on best way for the United States to participate in this Scheme.