In an effort to communicate the vital role that standards play in daily life, the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) publishes snapshots of the diverse standards initiatives undertaken in the global and national standards arena, many of which are performed by ANSI members and ANSI-accredited standards developers. Two of the latest selections follow:
Pendant-Mounted Luminaries for Roadway Lighting
Nighttime drivers are well aware of the importance of effective lighting for roadways after the sun goes down. ANSI C136.53-2017, New Roadway Lighting Standard for Enclosed Pendant-Mounted Luminaires, is a new standard that guides dimensional, maintenance, and light distribution features for roadway lighting that are interchangeable in enclosed pendant-mounted luminaries. The system allows for luminaries to be interchanged if they are a similar size, shape, and weight, as long as they fit the mounting pendant, pole strength requirements will not change, light distribution will be similar, and similar maintenance procedures will be used. This American National Standard (ANS) was developed by the ANSI Accredited Standards Committee C137, Lighting Systems, which is sponsored by the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA).
NEMA, an ANSI member and accredited standards developer, is a membership organization representing nearly 350 electrical equipment and medical imaging manufacturers. The organization provides a forum for the development of technical standards, advocacy of industry policies, and collection, analysis, and dissemination of industry data.
Fire Resistance for Transportation Tunnels
Tunnels are an integral part of the transportation system in the U.S. and abroad, with millions relying on them for their daily commute, shipping routes, and long-distance travel. Fire protection systems are a critical part of the safe operation of these structures, and a new standard provides guidance on testing tunnels for their fire resistance. ASTM E3134-17, Standard Specification for Transportation Tunnel Structural Components and Passive Fire Protection Systems, applies to the fire resistance of concrete tunnel linings, fire-resistive materials, and structural tunnel members. The tests include assessment of movement joints and their impact on overall fire resistance, but do not address mechanical attachment methods for equipment. This American National Standard was developed by ASTM International.
ASTM, an ANSI member and audited designator, has developed over 12,000 standards that are in use around the world, with a focus on improving product quality, enhancing health and safety, strengthening market access and trade, and building consumer confidence.