What is a consensus standard?

A consensus standard is a document that is developed and agreed upon by a committee of experts in a specific field. This process ensures that the standard reflects a collective agreement on best practices or technical specifications that are based on a comprehensive review of existing knowledge and practices. Consensus standards are designed to promote safety, reliability, and consistency across various industries and disciplines, making them widely recognized and applicable.

The collaborative nature of creating these standards helps to incorporate diverse perspectives and expertise, ensuring that they are relevant and useful. These documents often serve as integral references for compliance, training, and implementation in various settings, including fire and emergency services. The collective agreement signifies that the standard has been vetted for accuracy and efficacy, setting a benchmark for practices within that domain.