Art, This sounds like the worst of all worlds. As you describe it, the Committee of Testing Labs take time to discuss matters of common interest, publish their findings and then individual CBs only implement those findings if they feel like it. Er, doesn't sound like much of a system!
My understanding of what SHOULD happen is that the CTL discuss matters of testing if the standard is not clear on a particular point and there are multiple ways of running a test which would result in differing test results. I know for certain that the CTL have brought matters relating to IEC 60950 to the relevant technical committee (TC) for their consideration and that this has resulted in changes to the standard: thereby ultimately negating the need for the CTL decision. Ditto as regards to OSM decisions relating to EN 60950. Of course, there are many different standards and not all TCs operate the same way. While on the subject of clarity of standards, TC 108 (which is responsible for IEC 60950 and IEC 60065) have a mechanism for covering questions of ambiguity of the standard from all users of those standards. This involves raising the question of interpretation to the technical committee in the country concerned who will then raise it internationally if they cannot answer the question themselves. Note however that the questions must relate to an identified ambiguity of the base standards: the procedure was not set up to deal with disputes between manufacturers and test houses, nor was it set up as a mechanism to educate people who do not wish to spend the time to read through the whole standard. Nevertheless, changes to IEC 60950 have resulted from questions raised through this channel. Again, I other TCs may have other procedures for dealing with such matters. Regards, Richard Hughes In a message dated 17/12/2003 20:15:46 GMT Standard Time, [email protected] writes: Hello John et al, In my experience, the CTL Decisions are not 'normative' but are a consensus position arrived at by the CTL (Committee of Testing Labs). To my knowledge, the test labs are not bound to implement or observe these 'decisions'; The 'decisions' are documented/provided for guidance only. Best regards; Happy Holidays, Art Michael
