THE WHO, WHAT, WHEN, WHERE OF STANDARDS
WHO??
Who makes standards??
Typically industry organizations made up by manufacturers of products, engineering contractors, users, and in some cases, the general public.
WHAT??
What are standards??
Technical documents that outline the basic aspects and features of various products, how they should be applied and/or tested. In some cases the document outlines required information that is needed from the purchaser.
WHEN??
When should standards be used?? When are standards updated or validated??
Standards, when applicable, should always be used and refrenced at least as a checklist for the parties to define what a given customer will receive vs. what the manufacturer will provide.
Typically standards are on a five year validity. They must either be re-affirmed, revised or, if nothing is done, lapse from effectiveness.
WHERE??
Where can I find what standards are available?? Where can I get one??
The same industry organizations that write standards actually use them as an income source. Most today have a website and you can purchase them by Internet, phone or fax.
Industry Links 
