Why it always pays to read these two parts of a standard first

Standards are incredibly useful tools, but as with any tool, they have limitations. Before diving into the more detailed parts of a standard, always check the scope and introduction to ensure the document is applicable to your intended purpose.

Reading these sections first will mean you won’t waste valuable time understanding the provisions of a standard, only to realise that it cannot be used in the chosen context.

What does a scope do?

As the name suggests, a scope sets out the extent to which the standard applies. And just as importantly, confirms any exceptions or limitations to that. The format, length and detail of a scope varies according to the content of the standard.

Where a standard is very detailed and practical, a scope may be prescriptive, setting out clearly what the standard does and the situations in which it can be used. Where a standard provides more general guidance, for example those relating to provision of services, the scope might provide more of a general framework.

Glove standard made clear

For example, the scope of BS EN ISO 18369-4:2018 PPE ensembles for firefighters undertaking specific rescue activities - Gloves is clear about what the standard covers: gloves used during specific rescue activities such as emergency rescue from a vehicle, to protect firefighters from exposure to hazards. The scope states that the standard covers general glove design, minimum performance level of the materials used, and methods for testing the material performance level.

The scope states that it does not cover special gloves for other uses. For example, firefighting, or protection for other parts of the body, protection for the hands from hazards such as chemical, biological, radiation, and electrical hazards, or exposure to fire ground chemicals, blood or bodily fluids.

Scopes can be found at the start of a standard. In international standards, care is taken to ensure that, as far as possible, different language editions are consistent so the document will apply consistently in each country.

What does an introduction do?

An introduction explains the context of a standard and any relevant background information. It tells you something about how the standard came about, whether it is intended to be used in conjunction with any other standards, and how it was developed.

The introduction might also set out any benefits that users of the standard might expect to see, and whether there are implications to some of the language choices used. For example, a clause saying ‘should’ may carry a different meaning to one that uses ‘may’, ‘shall’ or ‘can’.

A healthy understanding

BS ISO 45003:2021 Occupational health and safety management, Psychosocial health and safety at work. Guidelines for managing psychosocial risks has an introduction that explains the context of the standard. It is intended to be used alongside ISO 45001, which helps organisations build and manage an occupational health and safety management system.

The introduction explains what psychosocial hazards are and how psychosocial risks can lead to negative outcomes for workers such as cardiovascular disease, anxiety, depression and poor health behaviours.

The introduction states that psychosocial risks contribute to absence from work, turnover, reduced product or service quality, recruitment and training challenges, workplace investigations and litigation, and reputational damage. Managing them well can deliver benefits such as employee engagement, enhanced productivity, increased innovation and organisational sustainability.

Spy before you buy

The scope and introduction of a standard are often available to read in the preview section on the BSI Shop, meaning you can check these sections before you buy and avoid the wasted cost of buying an irrelevant or non-applicable standard.

The BSI Shop also shows you the list of contents of a standard to help you understand what is covered.

If you don’t have time to read the introduction or the scope, why not let us help? The BSI Knowledge Centre can quickly help members identify the right standards for them, at no extra cost. All part of the benefits of being a BSI member.