Distributors should be involved in codes and standards
The codes and standards development process can be a confusing and overwhelming process that never ends.
The American Supply Association believes that being at the forefront battling code issues is necessary to protect the interest of its members. The ASA Codes and Standards department is a tool ASA members have to engage themselves in the process.
When it comes to codes and standards, there are many sectors of the industry that are heavily involved in the process, some of which are inspectors, installers, contractors, engineer, manufactures, etc.
However, the missing link to this equation are distributors. Distributors are not so much linked to codes and standards because it is not typical for them to have a strong presence at code hearings. This could be because distributors are more concerned with the business aspects of things such as marketing. However, it is as equally important for distributors as it is for manufacturers to maintain a presence in the code- development process. The decisions being made at the hearings can impact the way business is conducted throughout the entire distribution chain.