World Standards Day is celebrated on 14th October UPSC

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Context: World Standards Day is celebrated on October 14 each year to raise awareness of the importance of standardization to the global economy, safety, health, and environment.

About World Standards Day

The World Standards Day is being celebrated globally on October 14th by organizations such as the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), International Organization for Standardization (ISO), and International Telecommunication Union (ITU).
The chosen theme for 2023 is "Shared Vision for a Better World: Incorporating Sustainable Development Goal (SDG3) for Good Health and Well-Being".
- This theme emphasizes the indispensable role of standards in addressing global challenges such as climate change, environmental conservation, and sustainable development. It also highlights the importance of SDG3, which aims to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages.
October 14 was chosen for World Standards Day because it commemorates the 1946 meeting in London where delegates from 25 countries initiated efforts to establish an international organization dedicated to standardization.
The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) was officially founded in 1947, and the first World Standards Day was celebrated in 1970, recognizing the importance of global standards and their impact on various industries and societies worldwide.

Some examples of how standards are being used to improve health and well-being
Occupational Health and Safety Standards	●These standards are crucial for ensuring the safety and well-being of workers in various industries. They provide guidelines for workplace safety, equipment design, and the handling of hazardous materials.
Environmental Health Standards	●Standards related to environmental health address issues like the safe disposal of hazardous waste, the management of toxic substances, and the prevention of environmental contamination, ultimately safeguarding public health and the environment.
Infection Control Standards	●In healthcare settings, standards for infection control are essential to prevent the spread of infections and protect both patients and healthcare workers. These standards cover areas like hand hygiene, sterilization, and personal protective equipment.
Mental Health Care Standards	●Standards in mental health care help ensure that patients receive appropriate and quality care for mental health conditions, promoting overall well-being and access to mental health services.
Child Safety Standards	●These standards are designed to ensure the safety of products and environments where children are present, such as toys, playgrounds, and car seats, contributing to the well-being of young individuals.
Accessibility Standards	●Standards related to accessibility, such as those established in the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), help make public spaces, websites, and services accessible to individuals with disabilities, promoting inclusion and well-being.
Nutrition Standards	●These standards guide the development of nutritional labelling and content in food products, helping consumers make informed choices for healthier diets and overall well-being.
Health Information Standards	●Standards in healthcare data exchange and electronic health records improve patient care, reduce medical errors, and enhance overall healthcare system efficiency, ultimately benefiting health and well-being.

In addition to these specific examples, standards are also used to improve health and well-being in many other ways. For example, standards for building construction help to ensure that buildings are safe and healthy for occupants. Standards for energy efficiency help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve air quality. And standards for transportation safety help to reduce the number of traffic accidents and fatalities.

Conclusion

World Standards Day serves as a reminder of the crucial role that international standards play in facilitating trade, innovation, and the well-being of consumers around the world. It is an opportunity to recognize the contributions of experts and organizations that work tirelessly to develop and maintain these standards.

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BUREAU OF INDIAN STANDARDS: https://www.iasgyan.in/daily-current-affairs/bureau-of-indian-standards

PRACTICE QUESTION

Q. What are the key environmental standards and regulations that industries need to adhere to promote sustainable practices and minimize their environmental impact?

WORLD STANDARDS DAY