Law Summary
Coverage of Standards
- The mandatory standards address electrical components such as fuses, fluorescent lamp starters, lampholders, and circuit breakers.
- Fire safety equipment including specifications for portable fire extinguishers using different extinguishing agents like dry chemical, carbon dioxide, halon substitutes, and foam.
- Materials and products for construction and plumbing such as steel bars for concrete reinforcement, galvanized steel sheets, polyvinyl chloride pipes, polyethylene pipes, and sanitary wares.
- Safety and performance requirements for household electrical appliances, including vacuum cleaners, electric fans, cooking ranges, rice cookers, and various types of lamps.
- Standards for automotive-related items such as lead acid storage batteries, motor vehicle brake fluids, safety glass for automotive applications, and repositioning of right hand drive to left hand drive vehicles.
- Specifications for safety matches, toys safety including flammability and migration of elements, and packaging and labelling for toys.
Definitions and Specifications
- Each PNS is provided with its specific scope and technical specifications, such as electrical ratings, material characteristics, safety requirements, performance benchmarks, and testing methods.
- Safety-related specifications are detailed for equipment intended for household or commercial use, ensuring consumer protection.
Implementation and Enforcement
- Compliance with these mandatory standards is required for manufacturers, suppliers, and distributors of the covered products.
- The mandatory declaration implies legal obligation, meaning non-compliance may result in penalties or sanctions under applicable trade and consumer protection laws.
Classification and Organization
- The standards are numbered and dated, reflecting the year of issuance or revision for easy identification.
- Some standards are parts of a series addressing different aspects such as general, safety, performance, and particular requirements.
Availability and Access to Standards
- Full texts and detailed specifications of these Philippine National Standards are available at the Office of the National Administrative Register (ONAR), located within the U.P. Law Complex.
Importance of Standards
- Mandatory standards help ensure product quality, safety, and reliability, which protects consumers and facilitates trade.
- They serve as reference points for inspection, quality control, and certification processes in the Philippines.
Legal Implications
- Products not conforming to these standards cannot legally be sold or distributed in the Philippines.
- Enforcement agencies rely on these declared mandatory standards to monitor market compliance and safeguard public safety.