Difference between American National Standards Institute(ANSI) and American Society for Testing and Materials(ASTM)

The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) are two organizations that are involved in setting standards for various industries in the United States. While both organizations have similar goals, there are some key differences between the two.

ANSI is a private, non-profit organization that oversees the development of voluntary consensus standards for a wide range of industries, including construction, telecommunications, and healthcare. These standards are developed through a collaborative process that involves stakeholders from industry, government, academia, and other organizations. Once a standard has been developed and approved by ANSI, it becomes a recognized national standard.

ASTM, on the other hand, is a global organization that develops and publishes technical standards for materials, products, systems, and services. These standards are used by a wide range of industries, including construction, aerospace, and healthcare. ASTM standards are developed through a consensus process that involves experts from industry, government, academia, and other organizations. Once a standard has been developed and approved by ASTM, it becomes a recognized international standard.

One key difference between ANSI and ASTM is their scope of work. ANSI focuses on developing standards for a wide range of industries within the United States, while ASTM develops standards for industries around the world. Additionally, ANSI standards are typically voluntary and are not enforced by law, while ASTM standards may be adopted by governments and regulatory agencies as part of their regulations.

Another difference between the two organizations is their membership structure. ANSI is made up of more than 1,000 organizations from industry, government, academia, and other sectors. Members of ANSI have the opportunity to participate in the development of standards and have a say in the direction of the organization. ASTM, on the other hand, is made up of individual members who are experts in their respective fields. These members work together to develop technical standards that are widely accepted by industry.

In conclusion, while both ANSI and ASTM are involved in setting standards for various industries, there are some key differences between the two organizations. ANSI focuses on developing voluntary consensus standards for industries within the United States, while ASTM develops standards for industries around the world. Additionally, ANSI is made up of organizational members, while ASTM is made up of individual members who are experts in their respective fields.