"A standard is a document that provides requirements, specifications, guidelines or characteristics that can be used consistently to ensure that materials, products, processes and services are fit for their purpose."  ISO, http://www.iso.org/iso/home/standards.htm

BSI builds on this definition, noting: "Standards are designed for voluntary use and do not impose any regulations. However, laws and regulations may refer to certain Standards making compliance with them compulsory." http://www.bsieducation.org/Education/about/what-is-a-standard.shtml

University Libraries provides access to thousands of standards from several of issuing agencies, including ASTM, ISO, ANSI, AASHTO, AASHRAE, ASME, and SAE.  While ASTM and IEEE standards are often available online (see sections, below) most of our standards from other agencies are print only.  These print standards are not always indexed by OU Libraries' local search product, Discover Local, so please Ask Us for assistance, or contact or visit the Youngblood Energy Library.