Standards Linkages To A Performance-Based Regulatory Framework

Abstract

This article discusses the linkage between performance-based regulations and the standards that form a crucial part of the overall performance-based regulatory system (PBRS). There are many ways in which codes and standards may be linked, but generally performancerelated standards should employ a structure that is complementary to that of the code. Traditionally codes have made direct references to standards that then provide a greater level of detail on how a function is to be accomplished or verified. In a PBRS that does not require specific approaches it is not clear if direct reference to standards in the regulation is appropriate or whether these would be in the “Acceptable Solutions.� What then is the scope of a performance-related standard and would the standard be different if it supports the functional requirement or performance criterion as opposed to only acceptable solutions? In the Performance Codes that have been developed by various countries there are many similar objectives, functional requirements, and performance requirements. To what extent will it be possible to develop and agree on common standards on a regional or international scale? And finally, how will the standards affect the development and application of the performance codes themselves? In particular, standards have a significant role in the regulatory acceptance of compliance with code provisions, and the same would be expected under a performance system. These issues will be discussed from the international perspective of the authors and their direct involvement in the development and use of performance codes and standards in their own countries.