The memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed by the South African Bureau of Standards (SABS) and ASTM International continues to benefit both standards organizations, according to a recent annual report. 

Since the MOU was signed in 2003, SABS has adopted and referenced several of ASTM International’s more than 12,000 consensus standards. In 2008, SABS adopted five ASTM standards as identical South Africa national standards and consulted 139 ASTM standards in the preparation of national standards. 

More than 50 individuals from South Africa participate on one or more of ASTM’s 141 technical committees. "SABS looks forward to building on its existing relationship with ASTM to advance standards and standardization in South and Southern Africa," says Dr. Boni Mehlomakulu, CEO of SABS.

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).