Sep 16, 2010

In a recent annual report, the Instituto Boliviano de Normalización y Calidad notes that they continue to reference several ASTM International standards for the development of Bolivian national standards.  ASTM and IBNORCA signed a memorandum of understanding in 2002.

Founded in 1993, the Instituto Boliviano de Normalización y Calidad (IBNORCA) is the national body for standardization in Bolivia. IBNORCA promotes quality and occupational health and safety through the development of Bolivian national technical standards, training and quality certification.

Since signing the MOU in 2002, more than 140 ASTM International standards have been referenced or used as the basis for Bolivian national standards.  The standards cover various sectors, including metals, concrete, coal, petroleum, adhesives and plastics.  According to IBNORCA’s most recent annual report, four additional ASTM standards were adopted as equivalent/identical standards this year, and 14 ASTM standards were consulted or used as reference documents in the preparation of Bolivian standards.  Almost all of the standards were from ASTM Committee A01 on Steel, Stainless Steel and Alloys.

According to IBNORCA Chairman Viktor de los Heros, IBNORCA has taken advantage of the host of benefits that the ASTM MOU program provides.  “Over the last few years, IBNORCA’s Information and Documentation Center has responded to an increasing demand for up-to-date information on standards, and ASTM standards are among the most consulted, particularly on cement, concrete, bricks, textiles, metal piping, plaster and lime,” says de los Heros.

IBNORCA has also taken advantage of the ASTM technical training programs that are offered as part of the MOU program, including a recent training course on laboratory analysis for textiles that was organized with ASTM’s assistance.  More than 30 individuals from Bolivia participate in the standards development process as ASTM members.

“IBNORCA is interested in continuing and deepening our strategic partnership with ASTM to contribute to Bolivia’s technological and productive development,” says de los Heros.

Initiated in 2001, ASTM International's MOU program promotes communication between ASTM International and national standards bodies worldwide, fostering awareness of the standardization systems of all parties involved. The purpose of the program is to increase greater worldwide participation in the ASTM standards development process and facilitate the development of national standards that will aid health, safety, and environmental and economic conditions. More information on the MOU program can be found on the ASTM International Web site (www.astm.org/GLOBAL).

ASTM Staff Contact: Teresa Cendrowska, Phone: 610-832-9718; tcendrow@astm.org

Release #8678/Sept2010