IIW White Paper

7.4.2 Optimum laws Laws applying in some way to the welding industry, ideally need to be simple for those who must comply, in easily understood language, transparent and addressing principles and outcomes required, and provide controls, powers for corrective actions and any penalties. They also need to be readily and freely accessible, transparent and supported by a suitable explanation of essential themes and an impact statement. Technology should be covered by performance requirements rather than detailed prescriptive technical requirements wherever appropriate, though this is not always possible. Reference to codes of practice and standards may give guidance on technology which is deemed to comply with the law, but changing technology must be accommodated to avoid inhibiting innovation and to assist both parliamentarians and industry. Society, governments and industry are, for the reasons shown in Figure 7.1 wary of new or changed technology. The welding industry will need in future to respond by improving the development stage with suitable proving tests and trials. Law, standards and welding technology come together in the changing area of workplace health and safety, with greater interest being shown by governments and industry. The need for the continuation of the work of IIW Commission VIII in this subject area is clear. It should be recognised that laws will differ between countries to suit each special need and cater for its history, political system, social and religious system and citizens. With respect to welding technology, IIW and others should continue to consolidate innovations and solutions and transfer knowledge making optimum use of new information technology tools. All of this should contribute towards achieving global peace, healthy security, economy and trade. There are still significant differences between technical standards in different jurisdictions which need to be minimised e.g. currently there is up to 34% difference in pressure vessel shell thickness for identical conditions, formulae, material, workmanship and safety factors. Such differences need minimising and resolution. Fortunately the above is being tackled and differences are gradually being resolved on scientific grounds as standards gradually harmonise. The international cooperative effort to minimise the differences with design of welded joints against fatigue is an excellent example. 7.4.3 Conformity assessment All countries have experienced and reported evidence of defective imported and locally produced new or second-hand welded structures and products, and the materials and services required for the above, including heat treatment, NDT and painting. In 2012 there are many notable examples. Hence, there is growing concern regarding the need to avoid defective products due to the increased risk to all (manufacturers to end-users and operators), increased cost of re-work or recall, loss in confidence in national products and welding technology, and impairment of national essential services, trade and economy. There is also a need for suitable support for governments to administer the laws and understand the relevant technology to ensure success and help industry optimally implement law.

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Through Optimum Use and Innovation of Welding and Joining Technologies

Improving Global Quality of Life