Below is an overview of how volunteer members can take a new idea all the way to a new standard. 

Jan 05, 2026

ASTM International’s standards are already referenced around the globe, and new standards are being developed every day. As new technology, test methods, or materials are developed, standards are created or revised to keep pace with evolving industries. Below is an overview of how volunteer members can kickstart this process, taking a new idea all the way to a new standard. 

New Needs

• An idea for a new standard or revision to an existing standard can emerge from several different needs. Some common starting places are:
• Filling gaps or more efficient standard needed.
• Providing common language and expectations for global industry.
• New technology or innovation.
• Addressing new or emerging safety concerns.
• Ensuring product quality and reliability.
• Regulatory and/or legal compliance.
• Task Group

Once a new activity is approved, a task group is formed, and a work item is registered to draft the standard.
Non-members are invited to participate in the task group, as well. There is no official voting at this level, and no formal requirements to initiate or proceed to the next level.

The Balloting Process 

Once the new standard or revision is drafted, a subcommittee ballot is initiated, and the standard must move through the subcommittee and main committee balloting process. The standard must receive chair approval and a majority of member votes to proceed to the next stage of the development process. Any negative comments that the standard receives must also be addressed and reconciled before the standard moves forward. 

Final Review

Once a standard has passed through the balloting stage, the committee on standards (COS) verifies that the process has been followed according to ASTM regulations, and that all negative votes have been properly addressed. 

After the standard is approved by the technical committee members, ASTM editorial staff handle the format and style review. A staff editor will then send a review copy of the written standard to the technical contact for final review and approval to publish.

New Standards

ASTM standards are used around the world for a reason: They begin from an industry need, and they move through this ballot process that assures the highest level of accuracy and relevance. That’s why new ideas from members are so essential. They lead to the new standards that drive industry efficiency through agreed-upon solutions to specific problems and help prevent accidents and protect public health. ●

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