Improving Global Quality of Life

7.4.2 Optimum laws
Laws applying in some way to the welding industry, ideally need to be simple for those who must comply,
in easily understood language, transparent and addressing principles and outcomes required, and provide
controls, powers for corrective actions and any penalties. They also need to be readily and freely accessible,
transparent and supported by a suitable explanation of essential themes and an impact statement.
Technology should be covered by performance requirements rather than detailed prescriptive technical
requirements wherever appropriate, though this is not always possible. Reference to codes of practice
and standards may give guidance on technology which is deemed to comply with the law, but changing
technology must be accommodated to avoid inhibiting innovation and to assist both parliamentarians and
industry.
Society, governments and industry are, for the reasons shown in Figure 7.1 wary of new or changed
technology. The welding industry will need in future to respond by improving the development stage with
suitable proving tests and trials.
There is also a need for suitable support for governments to administer the laws and understand the relevant
technology to ensure success and help industry optimally implement law.
Law, standards and welding technology come together in the changing area of workplace health and safety,
with greater interest being shown by governments and industry. The need for the continuation of the work
of IIW Commission VIII in this subject area is clear.
It should be recognised that laws will differ between countries to suit each special need and cater for
its history, political system, social and religious system and citizens. With respect to welding technology,
IIW and others should continue to consolidate innovations and solutions and transfer knowledge making
optimum use of new information technology tools. All of this should contribute towards achieving global
peace, healthy security, economy and trade.
There are still significant differences between technical standards in different jurisdictions which need to
be minimised e.g. currently there is up to 34% difference in pressure vessel shell thickness for identical
conditions, formulae, material, workmanship and safety factors. Such differences need minimising and
resolution. Fortunately the above is being tackled and differences are gradually being resolved on scientific
grounds as standards gradually harmonise. The international cooperative effort to minimise the differences
with design of welded joints against fatigue is an excellent example.
7.4.3 Conformity assessment
All countries have experienced and reported evidence of defective imported and locally produced new
or second-hand welded structures and products, and the materials and services required for the above,
including heat treatment, NDT and painting. In 2012 there are many notable examples.
Hence, there is growing concern regarding the need to avoid defective products due to the increased risk
to all (manufacturers to end-users and operators), increased cost of re-work or recall, loss in confidence
in national products and welding technology, and impairment of national essential services, trade and
economy.
66 Improving Global Quality of Life Through Optimum Use and Innovation of Welding and Joining Technologies