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NIST holds Second International Workshop on Mutual Recognition Agreements (MRAs) for Conformity Assessment of Electromagnetic Compatibility and Telecommunications Regulations
by SSD staff May 15, 2009
On May 5-7, 2009, NIST and the FCC co-sponsored the Second International Workshop on Mutual Recognition Agreements (MRAs) for Conformity Assessment of Electromagnetic Compatibility and Telecommunications Regulations at NIST in Gaithersburg, Md.
Approximately 150 people from 15 countries attended the three-day event, including government regulatory and designating authorities, manufacturers, accreditation bodies, test laboratories, certification bodies, and other interested parties. Representatives from Europe, Asia, and the Americas provided valuable insights into emerging global trends in technical regulations, standards, and conformity assessment issues that have and will continue to impact electromagnetic compatibility requirements and radio and telecommunications equipment markets worldwide.
The U.S. government is a signatory to five MRAs for the conformity assessment of telecommunication equipment, covering the European Union, European Free Trade Area, Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation, Inter- American Telecommunication Commission, and Japan. The operational status and implementation details of the MRAs differ, but all are intended to facilitate the international trade of telecommunications equipment. The MRAs benefit consumers worldwide through faster access to the latest technologies and products, while ensuring that they comply with the regulatory safety and performance requirements of the importing country.
NIST serves as the designating authority under these agreements and is responsible for reviewing and processing applications from qualified U.S. conformity assessment bodies seeking recognition from other countries and economies under the MRA.
For more information on the workshop please click here.