What is a standard?

ISO Guide 2 defines a standard as a document established by consensus and approved by a recognised body that provides for common and repeated use, rules, guidelines or characteristics for activities or their results, aimed at the achievement of the optimum degree of order in a given context

How are Uganda Standards developed?

Uganda Standards are developed are developed through 9 Committees of volunteer experts representing the various segments of society including users, manufacturers, consultants, consumer bodies, universities, testing laboratories, and government regulatory agencies. The Committees include:

• Basic and General Standards
• Agricultural and Food Products
• Building and Construction
• Mechanical Engineering and metallurgy
• Chemicals and environment
• Textiles and Apparels
• Electrotechnology
• Transport and Communication
• Metrology
• Management Systems

Where can I find Uganda standards?

Uganda Standards can be accessed on this site. The standards catalogue lists the titles, abstracts, numerical designations and prices of all Uganda Standards. It includes a search function that will help you quickly locate an individual standard, or will generate specific lists of standards based on a search by one or more keywords. Alternatively, you can simply browse the catalogue to get an overview of what is available.

What are the different types of Standards?

Standards can be classified into two:

1. Voluntary Standard: Standards are considered voluntary where they serve as guidelines, but do not of themselves have the force of law. In general majority of the standards issued by UNBS are voluntary in nature.
2. Mandatory/compulsory Standard: Standards become mandatory when the Minister declares them as such. These cover mainly products that are likely to affect the health and safety of consumers. Such standards are then considered as technical Regulations and are enforceable by law.

Is it possible to place an order for a Uganda Standard directly from the UNBS site?

Yes you can order Uganda Standards from UNBS site itself. The site gives contact information for the sales services.

Where does a request for anew code or standard comefrom?

A request for a code or standard may come from individuals, committees, professional organizations, government agencies, industry groups, or public interest groups. The request is first referred to the Standards Development for consideration. The Standards Development Division then assigns the request to an existing Technical committee of knowledgeable volunteers or determines that a new standards committee must be formed. Once an appropriate Committee has concluded that there is enough interest and need the standards developing process is initiated.

What is a technical regulation?

A document that lays down product characteristics or their related processes and production, including the applicable administrative provisions, with which compliance is mandatory. It may also include or deal exclusively with terminology, symbols, packaging, marking, labelling requirements as they apply to a product, process or production method

Can companies or organizations establish standards?

Yes, companies can establish their own Standards for use in their trade or other operations. Such Standards can be used in procurement, and other contractual obligations.

How are Uganda Standards related to regional and/or international Standards?

More than 70% of the Uganda Standards are based on International Standards.

What Standards are available at the Uganda National Bureau of Standards?

UNBS provides National, foreign and International Standards in the Documentation and Information Centre.

How can I access Standards?

Standards can be obtained at the UNBS Documentation and Information Centre.

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