Voluntary Product Standard PS 1-19
DOC Voluntary Product Standards are developed under procedures published by the Department of Commerce in Title 15 Code of Federal Regulations Part 10, Procedures for the Development of Voluntary Product Standards. The purpose of these standards is to establish nationally recognized requirements for products and to provide all concerned interests with a basis for common understanding of the characteristics of the products. The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) administers the Voluntary Product Standards program on a reimbursable basis.
ROLE OF NIST
The role of NIST in the establishment of a DOC Voluntary Product Standard is to act as an unbiased coordinator in the development of the standard, provide editorial assistance in the preparation of the standard, supply such assistance and review as is required to assure the technical soundness of the standard, and seek satisfactory adjustment of valid points of disagreement. NIST also determines compliance with the criteria of the Department’s procedures and publishes the standard as a public document.
Producers, distributors, users, consumers, and other interested groups contribute to the establishment of Voluntary Product Standards. These groups initiate and participate in the development of the standards, provide technical or other counsel as appropriate, promote the use of and support for the standards, and assist in keeping them current with respect to advancing technology and marketing practices.
USE OF VOLUNTARY PRODUCT STANDARDS
The use of DOC Voluntary Product Standards is voluntary. NIST has no regulatory power in the enforcement of their provisions; however, since the standards represent a consensus of interested groups, their provisions are likely to become established as trade customs.
The benefits derived from a DOC Voluntary Product Standard are in direct proportion to their general recognition and actual use. Producers and distributors whose products meet the requirements of a DOC Voluntary Product Standard may refer to the standard in advertising and on labels to promote greater public understanding for confidence in their products. At times, purchasers may order products conforming to the requirements of a DOC Voluntary Product Standard.
Abstract
These standard covers performance requirements, adhesive bond performance, grades, panel construction and workmanship, dimensions and tolerances, marking, and moisture content of structural plywood. The standard classifies structural plywood by bond classification, span rating, performance category, and grade. It provides test methods, a glossary of trade terms and definitions, and a quality certification program whereby agencies inspect, sample, and test products for conformance to this standard. Information regarding industry practices for reinspection, history of the standard, labeling, and formaldehyde attributes are provided in nonmandatory appendices.
Keywords: Adhesive bond classification; certification; construction sheathing; dimensions and tolerances; marking;moisture content; performance requirements; span rating; performance category; structural plywood; test methods; voluntary standard.
