ROUNDTABLE
Regulations & Standards within manufacturing
While manufacturing standards in the US versus Europe has clearly defined differences, each has a similar core goal, which is safety above all else.
OCH: Will Dunn, LES, USA, what changes in US standards and regulations have you seen recently and how does this differ from other regulations outside the US? WD: The landscape of manufacturing standards in the US versus Europe has clearly defined differences, but with a similar core goal; safety above all. The differences are typically shaped by cultural and data-driven conclusions with some conflicting opinions on both sides of the pond In the United States, manufacturing— particularly in the field of lifting and rigging equipment—holds a unique position. It’s characterized by stringent standards, a deep- rooted culture of innovation, and a focus on
10 Fall 2024 |
ochmagazine.com
safety that distinguishes it from practices in other regions. Historically, the US has been at the forefront
of technological advancements, and this is reflected in the manufacturing standards and procedures carried out today. With an ‘America First’ mentality it is widely regarded that anything made in America is of significantly higher quality than those imported from foreign countries, and I have to agree- with litigation being second nature and ever-rising liability insurance costs, it pays to over-engineer products to ensure they can take a beating in the toughest of applications, and in this country strength and reliability is everything.
Having operated in both the US and Europe a clear difference is the amount of proof testing that is second nature and demanded by some of the regulations as a minimum requirement for that piece of equipment to undergo its initial use. In Europe it is standard practice for equipment such as Web Slings, Round Slings and Chain Slings to be picked and shipped with a Declaration of Conformity (or Report of Through Examination depending on timings) stating the EN standard, it’s working load limits, minimum break strength, safety factor etc. But with no load test. In America those items are typically subject to a load test that exceeds the working load limit and then fully certified in order to provide proof that the
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