Main Difference – Code vs Standard

Standards and codes are important terms in technical fields. They refer to the definitions and guidelines that specify or clarify technical procedures and their requirements. The main difference between code and standard is that standard is a set of technical definitions, specifications, and guidelines whereas code is a model that is established after years of use.

What is a Code

When a standard has been adopted by governmental bodies and has the force of law, it becomes a code. A standard also becomes a code when it has been incorporated into a business contract. A code is a set of rules that experts in the field recommend people to follow; it is a model. Although it is not a law, it can be adopted into law. A code tells you what needs to be done, but it doesn’t explain how it should be done. Some examples of Codes include International Building Code, ASME Boiler and Vessel Code, and AWS D1.1.

Both standards and codes establish technical or engineering requirements for products, methods, practices or operations. They also strengthen users’ confidence in quality. The cost of production may also be reduced since the requirements are standardized.

Building code specifies the minimum standards for constructed objects such as buildings.

What is a Standard

A standard is a set of technical definitions, specifications, and guidelines. They function as instructions for designers, manufacturers, operators, or users of equipment. If you are building something, a standard tells you about the materials, process, designs, structure, etc. In brief, standards tell you how to do something.

Standards are usually created by individual companies, organizations or countries. They are not legalized. A standard develops into a code when it is adopted by a set of government bodies and gets legalized. Some examples of standards include ASTM International standards, and ISO standard.

Difference Between Code and Standard

Definition

Code is a model that is adaptable by law.

Standard is a set of technical definitions, specifications, and guidelines.

Purpose

Code clarifies what needs to be done.

Standard clarifies how something should be done.

Legal Status

Code can be adopted into law.

Standard is not legalized.

Examples

Code examples include International Building Code, ASME Boiler and Vessel Code, and AWS D1.1.

Standard examples include ASTM International standards and ISO standard.

Reference:

“Architectural Framwork” By Rob Thomas, Director and Phil Cullen, Policy Analyst, Technology and Architecture Group, Office of Information and Technology – Building an Enterprise Architecture framework (Public Domain) via Commons Wikimedia

“ASTM International Logo” by Von Unbekannt – (Gemeinfrei) via Commons Wikimedia 

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