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The primary objectives of a standard are
- To provide a set of criteria by which a product can be verified to be suitable for the purpose for which it is intended in comparison with similar products from other manufacturers or sources. This value provides advantage to both manufacturer and the customer.
- To avoid the pitfalls of proliferation of sizes and performance specifications. In the absence of standardisation, it would be difficult to replace a damaged component by one of different manufacturer or even from the same manufacturer if modifications have been subsequently made to the design.
- To ensure compliance to safety requirements and design criteria to warrant that it is safe in normal use.
Certification
The certification to safety standards gives also a degree of protection against legal action in the event of accident involving the product.
The value to the general public at large, of standardisation is the improved reliability of the equipment around them, giving longer uninterrupted service and greater personal safety.