The U.S. National Committee (USNC) of the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) has published the Spring 2018 edition of its quarterly newsletter, the USNC Current. The issue explores the intricacies of developing IEC standards, and the tools and techniques used to strengthen the communication, cooperation, and collaboration of diverse groups involved in the standardization process.
In a feature article, UL's standards program manager, Joe Musso, secretary of IEC Technical Committee (TC) 72 on Automatic electrical controls, and member of the USNC Technical Management Committee, describes the process of the IEC Standardization Management Board (SMB)the decision-making body which reports to the Council Board. He notes the SMB's increasing emphasis on cooperation between TCs and subcommittees (SCs), and explains why the role of liaisons is becoming more important, as an integral link between technical groups for more effective collaboration.
Contributor Alec McMillan, principal advisor, Rockwell Automation, and IEC SEG 7 smart manufacturing co-convenor, writes about the "Collaboration within the Domain of an IEC System Committee," and Ken Gettman, international standards director, NEMA, hones in on committee relationships and communications systems, end products, and components.
The issue also highlights upcoming events and opportunities, including the USNC Effective IEC Participation Online Course on May 22designed to provide tips and insights to USNC delegates who wish to improve their skills as representatives of the U.S. electrotechnical sector at IEC meetings. Additionally, read about how the new IEC Academy provides centralized access to online training in standardization.
The issue also pays tribute to two of its dedicated members and outstanding leaders, John Rennie and Milena Krasich in a remembrance column.
Access the USNC Current - Spring 2018 Edition.
If you are interested in contributing to the next publication of theUSNC Current, focused on Cyber Security and Standards, please contact Kendall Szulewski-Francis, program administrator, international policy, USNC/IEC, via email at [email protected].
About the USNC
A committee of ANSI, the USNC serves as the focal point for U.S. parties who are interested in the development, promulgation, and use of globally relevant standards for the electrotechnical industry. The Committee is also engaged in the assessment of conformance to standards, undertaking work in areas such as testing, certification, and accreditation.
As the U.S. representative to the IEC and many related regional standardization bodies, the USNC is a conduit to the global standards-setting community for technical and policy positions arising in the U.S. and brings issues from the global arena to the U.S. for review, consideration, and response. Strong U.S. participation in the IEC is critical to national competitiveness and the continued growth and innovation in U.S. electrotechnical industries.