Unlocking Excellence: How Standards Forge a Universal Language of Quality and Trust
Ali Jalali, a prominent figure in the Iranian Scientific Standards Association, has underscored the critical role of standards in promoting sustainable development, ensuring public safety, and enhancing commercial transparency. In a recent interview with ISNA, coinciding with World Standards Day, Jalali stressed the necessity for improved training and robust oversight by the National Standards Organization across various provinces to cultivate a national culture of standards.
What is World Standards Day?
World Standards Day is celebrated annually on October 14th. This day serves as a vital reminder of the significance of agreement, order, and quality in our daily lives. The inception of this day dates back to 1946, when representatives from 25 countries convened in London to establish a global framework aimed at harmonizing standards. This pivotal meeting ultimately led to the creation of the International Organization for Standardization (ISO).
This day pays tribute to the countless professionals and engineers who contribute to the development and implementation of standards, which are essential for industrial progress, fair trade practices, and consumer safety. Standards represent a universal language of development; without them, industries cannot effectively compete on a global scale.
Understanding Standard Marks on Products
Standard marks act as a language of trust between producers and consumers, indicating that a product or service meets specific technical and quality criteria. These standards can be relevant to either products or management systems.
- According to ISO/IEC 17021 and ISO/IEC 17030, management system marks are valid only if they are issued by competent bodies under legal supervision.
- Accreditation bodies under ISO/IEC 17021 must uphold impartiality, technical competence, and independence.
- ISO/IEC 17030 provides guidelines for conformity marks on products, emphasizing that no mark should be utilized without a formal evaluation.
Common Violations of ISO Marks in Iran
Regrettably, several companies misuse ISO marks or phrases directly on their products, even though ISO pertains to management systems rather than the quality of the products themselves. For instance, printing an ISO 9001 mark solely on packaging constitutes a violation.
Each ISO mark must contain:
- The name of the issuing body
- Certificate number
- Scope
- Validity date
These marks may only be featured in brochures, websites, or organizational documents. Additionally, for ISO 22000, which pertains to food safety management, displaying the mark or its phrase on a product is strictly prohibited. Instead, it may only be included in documents or on a website, accompanied by the statement: “This product is produced in an organization certified to ISO 22000.” Misuse of these marks can mislead consumers, and this issue is not confined to Iran but is observed globally.
How to Verify the Authenticity of Standard Marks and ISO Certificates
Consumers can take several steps to ensure the legitimacy of standard marks and ISO certificates. They should:
- Check the certificate’s name and number.
- Confirm that the issuing body is recognized by accreditation authorities.
In Iran, this is the National Accreditation Center of Iran (NACI), while internationally, accreditation bodies are full members of the International Accreditation Forum (IAF). By visiting the official websites of these organizations, individuals can verify the legitimacy of the issuing body. It is crucial to remember that ISO certificates are designated for management systems, not products; hence, any claim stating a “product has ISO” is inaccurate.
The Current Status of Standards in Iran
The quality of products and services in Iran is generally acceptable, with many producers successfully obtaining international certifications. However, there exists a significant gap in environmental, occupational health, and safety standards compared to developed nations. This disparity stems from:
- A lack of specialized training
- Limited oversight
- Insufficient resources
- A weak culture of compliance with safety and environmental standards in various industries
Recommendations for Promoting a Culture of Standards
To effectively foster a culture of standards in Iran, it is essential that they transition from mere administrative requirements to deeply ingrained social beliefs. Three primary actions are recommended:
- Continuous Training: Provide ongoing training for producers and experts on the appropriate use of marks and international standards.
- Public Awareness: Enhance public and media engagement to educate people about the true significance of standards and the distinctions between management system certificates and product marks.
- Strengthened Oversight: The National Standards Organization should bolster its oversight across provinces, particularly for products with high public consumption, such as food, beverages, healthcare products, and children’s items.
Furthermore, establishing online verification systems, promoting public education in schools and universities, and leveraging media channels to advance a culture of standards are essential steps toward institutionalizing standards in the country. Standards serve as a universal language of trust between producers and consumers, and enhancing their implementation will lead to improved quality of life, public health, and the economic credibility of the nation.
