Engineers Ireland has formally endorsed their members’ participation in Standards Committees as a form of Continuing Professional Development (CPD). These Committees, operated by the National Standards Authority of Ireland (NSAI), partake in the creation of national, European and international Standards.

The Standards produce a level of safety and uniformity across all industries and facets of society, while encouraging a single market by removing technical barriers to trade.

NSAI’s Chief Executive Officer, Geraldine Larkin said: “Getting formal recognition from one of Ireland’s largest professional bodies is a great honour for NSAI. It speaks volumes about the ongoing work in Ireland’s Standards Committees. Standards are built on a foundation of collaboration, knowledge exchange and professional experience, making Standards Committees an exciting and fruitful opportunity for many of our Experts.

“Participation in Standards Committees allows members to network, share their expertise and gain a competitive advantage while engaging with Standards for emerging technologies, products and services.”

Maurice Buckley, President of Engineers Ireland, said: “Many of our members are very positively impacted by their involvement in Standards Committees. When I was inaugurated as President of Engineers Ireland on 30 June last, I referenced how important it is for engineers to be involved in Standards Development activities. I have seen myself first-hand how companies and individual engineers gain a tremendous knowledge through their engagement with such work. It is an activity we have always encouraged within Engineers Ireland, and we’re delighted to strengthen that by qualifying the time dedicated to the work on NSAI Standards Committees as part of a member’s annual CPD requirement.”

Caroline Spillane, Director General of Engineers Ireland, said: “Engineers Ireland recognises the important work of the NSAI in developing standards and issuing certification which improves the performance of Irish business and protects consumers.  Engineers are active users of National Standards and it’s important that the profession engages in the development of these Standards. The activities taking place at NSAI allow our members to grow professionally, while making significant contributions to their area of expertise.  We encourage our members’ further participation on the NSAI Standards Committees and are very pleased to recognise that active participation through the award of CPD hours.”

“National and International Standards are fundamental to the safe design, construction, commissioning, and operation of electrical installations,” said Padraig Plunkett, a member of Engineers Ireland and a participant in NSAI’s Standards Committees.

“It follows that Standards Development is a key function in terms of keeping standards relevant to current technology available in all areas. Working on Standards Development with engineers specialising in different areas provides the opportunity of making a positive contribution to the industry and in parallel, improve the individual’s professional knowledge.”

Those interested in joining a Standards Committee can do so by registering their interest.