Does the Strategy address conformity assessment?
It is quite clear that conformity assessment issues such as testing, certification, and accreditation are closely associated with standards. It is equally clear that these issues have become a critically important aspect of conducting business in the global marketplace. However, the subject is complex, different interests are involved, and significant issues remain. Therefore, addressing conformity assessment in anything other than a superficial manner would have greatly increased both the size and complexity of the U.S. Standards Strategy and significantly extended the time required for completion. The National Conformity Assessment Principles for the United States (NCAP) document articulates the principles for U.S. conformity assessment activities. First published in September 2002, the second edition of the NCAP was released in May 2007.
