Camping is a refreshing way to get in touch with nature, enjoy some peace and quiet, and spend quality time with family. Having the right supplies with you makes all the difference in your comfort and enjoyment, and fortunately, there are many standards that support camping gear, making your night under the stars a success.
Finding appropriate campgrounds is the first step. Whether you choose to spend the night in a recreational vehicle, park trailer, tent, or another sleeping arrangement, it's crucial to settle in a location designed to protect the health and safety of campers. NFPA 1194-2018, Standard for Recreational Vehicle Parks and Campgrounds, provides construction requirements for the health and safety of occupants using facilities on recreational vehicles and campgrounds that have temporary living sites for vacationers in all sorts of camping units. It was developed by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), a member and audited designator of the American National Standards Institute (ANSI).
For campers looking to get even closer to nature, a tent is a good choice. ISO 5912:2011, Camping Tents, provides requirements for the safety, performance, and fitness for use of camping tents. This international standard was developed by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) Technical Committee (TC) 83, Sports and other recreational facilities and equipment. ASTM International, an ANSI member and audited designator, is the ANSI-accredited U.S. Technical Advisory Group (TAG) administrator to this TC. ANSI is the U.S. member body to ISO.
Recreational vehicles appeal to campers who want to experience the great outdoors while still enjoying some amenities like running water, bathroom facilities, and cooking appliances. Many standards guide the safe and effective use of recreational vehicles and their components, such as:
- ANSI Z21.57-2010, Recreational Vehicle Cooking Gas Appliances, developed by ANSI member and accredited standards developer CSA Group
- IAPMO TS 20-2009, Stainless Steel Plumbing Fixtures for Use in Recreational Vehicles, developed by ANSI member and audited designator IAPMO
- NSF/ANSI 24-2016, Plumbing System Components for Recreational Vehicles, developed by ANSI member and audited designator NSF International
No matter where you choose to sleep, don't forget a lantern to illuminate your campsite for relaxing outdoors as the sun sets. IEC 62722-2-1 Ed. 1.0 b:2014, Luminaire Performance - Part 2-1: Particular Requirements for LED Luminaries, provides performance requirements, test methods, and conditions for LED lights and lanterns such as those used by campers. The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) TC 34, Lamps and related equipment, subcommittee (SC) 34D, Luminaries, developed this standard. The National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) serves as the U.S. National Committee (USNC)-approved U.S. Technical Advisory Group (TAG) Administrator to TC 34, carrying U.S. positions forward to the committee.
Thanks to these standards for campgrounds and camping equipment, your night outdoors can be as safe and comfortable as it is adventurous and invigorating.