New ISA Institute Answers Compliance Needs

InTech, Nov 2006

While ISA has long been known for its standard publications and volunteer committees who write them, building a bridge to ensure compliance of those standards is becoming more important. Application communities such as wireless and security are looking for ways to make sure industries comply with the important standards coming to fruition. The Automation Standards Compliance Institute, announced in October, could be their answer. The Institute's charter includes a wide range of standards compliance assessments, including software or hardware products, implementation methods, solutions, companies, and individuals.

The ISA-SP99 committee focuses on the security of manufacturing control systems. Compromise of these systems could result in endangerment of public or employee safety, loss of proprietary or confidential information, environmental harm, or an adverse impact on national security among others. "Creating security standards without having a means to verify they are being followed correctly limits their effectiveness and puts industry at risk," said Eric Byres, CEO of Byres security Inc. "On the other hand, the existence of an ISA-facilitated organization like the Automation Standards Compliance Institute to manage and deliver security standards compliance programs will greatly enhance the use of the security standards and increase both safety and security," he said.

The ISA-SP100 committee addresses wireless manufacturing and control systems in areas where wireless technology is deployed. Chairman Wayne Manges said it is important the Institute work with the committee in developing its wireless standard to help establish criteria for future testing. Such compliance can improve manufacturing and control system deployment, he said. Plus it could "help identify vulnerabilities and address them, thereby reducing the risk of compromising or causing manufacturing control systems degradation or failure. "

ISA has already sponsored a feasibility study, a market study, and a legal assessment, which all revealed ISA's core strengths to launch this initiative. Twothirds of respondents to the market survey said the industry needs a standards conformity program as a link between ISA standards and the products, services, processes, and systems they address.

The initial compliance programs will cover safety, security, and wireless, where asset owners, consultants, contractors, and suppliers are trying to reduce risks and optimize performance. It will also facilitate development of ancillary services that assist asset owners, integrators and consultants, and suppliers in understanding and implementing standards.

A managing director will come on board in the coming months to develop and implement the business and operational aspects of the Automation Standards Compliance Institute.