Explain the main difference between a voluntary and mandator

Explain the main difference between a voluntary and mandatory standard.In each case, provide an example to support your answer.

Solution

Mandatory Standard

These type of standards as the name implies is must follow standard for any particular country or state in any particular field. These standards are often incorporated in the legal system of a country or state. The purpose of these standards is to provide a safe design standard to follow such that damage to health, life and property is eleminated or reduced to a great extent. These standards are evolved from long standing experiences of many years in any particular field.

Examples:

1. ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code (Mandatory in USA and many other countries)

2. National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Standards (Mandatory in USA and many other countries)

3. Indian Boiler Regulations (IBR) (Mandatory in India)

4. Pollution Control Standards (for any particular country)

5. OSHA Standards(mandatory in USA)

Voluntary(or Recommended) Standard

These are not mandatory as far as legal system of any country or state is concerned, however, following such standards may result in better safety, quality and reliability in the designed systems and equipment. Also customers will be have more confidence in the design and operation if some reputed voluntary or recommended standards are followed.

Examples:

1. ASME B& PV Code Section VI-Recommended Rules for the Care and Operation of Heating Boilers

2. ASME B & PV Code Section VII- Recommended guidelines for Care of Power Boilers.

3. American Petroleum Institure (API) Recommended Practice 500- Recommended Practice for Classificaation of Locations for Electrical Installation at Petroleum Facilities Classified as Class 1, Division 1 and Division 2.

Differences:

1. Mandatory standards are must follow in any particular country or state as per law but the Voluntary Standards are not.

2. Mandatory standards are often related to Public and Employee Safety as well as Health. Voluntary Standards are often related to efficiency, quality and reliability of equipment

3. Mandatory Standards need not necessarity be mentioned in the Design, Construction and Supply Contract as the applicability is automatic. Voluntary standards need to be mentioned in the Contract.