The Standards Council of Canada (SCC) is supporting the work of Underwriters Laboratories Inc. (UL) to adopt International Organization for Standardization (ISO) standards on lifejackets and immersion suits. UL is working with Canadian and U.S. experts to deliver joint standards for Canada and the United States. They will be published simultaneously in each country early in 2018 and will benefit both Canadian business and consumers.
By having joint Canada-U.S. standards, businesses need only comply with, and receive certification to, one standard. This will reduce trade barriers and improve marine safety on both sides of the border.
The standards also positively impact consumers. The new requirements will allow greater flexibility for manufacturers, resulting in new, more wearable devices for boaters. A larger market will increase innovation and ultimately create more choice for the public. Consumers will also benefit from new, easy-to-read labels that clearly show how to use each device and how it meets safety standards.
In 2015, UL published two joint national adoptions of ISO standards for buoyancy aids and test methods, the first in their Canadian catalogue of standards since being accredited by SCC.
Quotes
“Choosing a lifejacket should not be a complicated decision for consumers. It just makes sense to align our standards in this area. That’s why SCC is actively engaged in the harmonization and alignment of technical standards and certification programs between Canada and the United States.”
- John Walter, Chief Executive Officer, SCC
“UL is pleased to facilitate the development of joint Canada-US lifejacket and immersion suit standards. This work directly supports our public safety mission. These safety standards will eliminate additional testing for manufacturers; allowing for greater innovation in the types of lifejackets produced and saving more lives.”
- Philip M. Piqueira, Vice-President, Global Standards, UL
About UL
UL is a premier global independent safety science company that has championed progress for more than 120 years. Its nearly 11,000 professionals are guided by the UL mission to promote safe working and living environments for all people. UL uses research and standards to continually advance and meet ever-evolving safety needs. We partner with businesses, manufacturers, trade associations and international regulatory authorities to bring solutions to a more complex global supply chain. For more information about our certification, testing, inspection, advisory and education services, visit www.UL.com.