Improving Global Quality of Life

10.3.2 Typical hot topics
In the medium term, the “hot topics“ continually identified for each industry sector by members of IIW
technical Commissions, the IIW Technical Management Board and IIW International Authorisation Board
(IAB), will be further investigated to provide solutions for implementation across the globe.
10.3.3 Co-operation, competition and help
IIW will continue to support the principles of balanced and appropriate co-operation, collaboration and
competition as a means of improving the world and its people’s quality of life.
IIW believes that co-operation is the best means of helping developing countries to improve their quality
of life towards that of leading countries. Hence, it will promote and encourage:
Co-operation and collaboration between all countries.
Assistance in welding to less developed countries by advanced welding member countries for
example through:
IIW publications and information - free or at a small fee
Member countries education and training notes and other technical data - free or for a small fee
Member countries providing education and training, guidance, lectures etc. to neighbouring
poor countries - e.g. IIW WeldCare Programme.
All involved will benefit since it will help to promote knowledge and good relations, reducing tensions and
improving trade.
10.3.4 Improve Communication
IIW will improve its communications to all countries in recognition that information which is hidden or not
known to countries is useless and there is a paucity of knowledge in some developing countries.
IIW supports in principle the actions proposed in Table 8.1 for technology diffusion and encourages all to
take heed.
10.3.5 Global Welding Knowledge System
IIW will initiate a global system of welding knowledge which co-ordinates (not repeats) the documented
knowledge of IIW, its member countries and others who wish to co-operate.
All others will co-operate as far as reasonably practical by clearly listing on www or internet details and
availability (free-of-charge) of documented knowledge. Knowledge is proven facts and information is power
and will benefit all. Those who develop it, find it, record it or use it, can improve both their own and their
countries’ performance.
10.3.6 Conformity Assessment or Compliance
IIW will produce a guidance document specifically dealing with this subject in relation to welding. This will
recommend use of appropriate quality systems particularly ISO 3834 or equivalent, plus suitable levels of
auditing or inspection. (i.e. Use of quality systems and inspection to give the suitable level of assurance that
the welded related product and service is intended for).
158 Improving Global Quality of Life Through Optimum Use and Innovation of Welding and Joining Technologies