Although baseball is a multifaceted game, with the possibility of drama in all corners of the field, the ongoing duel between pitcher and batter at home plate occupies a central place in the sport. ASTM International, a member and audited designator of the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), has developed a standard that describes a test method for examining the performance of baseball bats. ASTM F1881-11, Standard Test Method for Measuring Baseball Bat Performance Factor, is intended to assist in the measurement of a given bat's batted-ball speed, bat performance factor and bat-ball coefficient of restitution, among other factors. The standard is not intended to address all relevant safety concerns.
It's always exciting to see a player hit a home run or watch a perfectly executed double play, but the experience of going to a baseball game is about much more than just the game itself, especially on opening day. One big part of the fun is relaxing with a drink and while watching your favorite team play. A standard developed by ANSI-accredited standards developer and organizational member the American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers (ASABE), ASAE S410.2 JUL2010, Moisture Measurement - Peanuts, sets down a uniform method for determining the moisture content of unground peanuts. Peanuts are a longtime staple of baseball stadium snacking, and effective moisture management helps keep peanuts from spoiling, making it easier for vendors to provide baseball fans with their favorite salty treat. However, all that eating and drinking creates another set of needs for stadium-goers, specifically the need for clean, well-functioning public bathrooms. ANSI Z124.9-2004, Plastic urinals fixtures, sets down guidelines for manufacturers, distributors, and purchasers of plastic urinal plumbing fixtures, including environmentally friendly waterless urinals. This American National Standard (ANS) was developed by ANSI member and audited designator the IAPMO Group.
While most baseball stadiums are designed to give fans a clear view of the field, those seated further back often depend on the stadiums' sound systems to allow them to hear the crack of the bat and the umpire's calls. The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) has developed a standard applying to sound system loudspeakers without built-in amplifiers, providing important support for organizations - such as groups managing baseball stadiums and other public arenas - and individuals making use of these sorts of loudspeakers. IEC 60268-5 Ed. 3.1 en:2007, Sound system equipment - Part 5: Loudspeakers, was developed by IEC Technical Committee (TC) 100, Audio, video and multimedia systems and equipment, which is chaired by David Carlton Felland of ANSI member and accredited standards developer the Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers (SMPTE). The Consumer Electronics Association (CEA), also an ANSI member and accredited standards developer, serves as the U.S. National Committee (USNC)-approved TAG administrator to TC 100.
Whether you're excited for opening day because of your lifelong commitment to a particular team, or just enjoy an afternoon relaxing in the stands, standards help make opening day a home run.