What are the Codes & Standards?

Codes are mandatory rules that govern the design, construction, and safety of systems in industries like oil and gas, while standards are detailed technical guidelines specifying materials, methods, and best practices. They become mandatory when referenced by a code or contract. Both aim to ensure safety, quality, and consistency, and are often used together to achieve compliance and reliability in industrial projects.

What are the Codes?

Codes are formalized sets of rules and requirements developed by recognized organizations to ensure the safety, reliability, and integrity of systems used in industrial sectors such as oil and gas and process plants. These codes cover the design, construction, installation, inspection, and maintenance of equipment and infrastructure. They are often mandatory, either enforced by government regulations or adopted through industry contracts and project specifications. For example, ASME B31.3 governs process piping, and API 570 provides requirements for piping inspection in the oil and gas industry. Compliance with codes is essential, as they serve as the legal and technical foundation for safe plant operation.

Key Points:

Purpose: It ensures safety, reliability, and regulatory compliance.
Legally Binding? Often mandatory—either enforced by government agencies or adopted by contracts and regulations

What are the Standards?

Standards, on the other hand, provide detailed guidelines, technical specifications, and recommended practices for materials, products, testing methods, and procedures. They are typically developed by standardization bodies such as ASTM, ISO, and NACE. While not always mandatory on their own, standards become enforceable when referenced by codes, contracts, or regulatory documents. For instance, ASTM standards specify the mechanical and chemical properties of steel pipes, and NACE MR0175 outlines material requirements for resistance to hydrogen sulfide corrosion. Standards help ensure consistency, quality, and interoperability across equipment and processes in the industry.

Key Points:

Purpose: To ensure consistency, interchangeability, and performance quality.
Legally Binding? Usually voluntary, unless referenced by a code, contract, or regulation.

Here’s a list of commonly used codes in the oil & gas and process industries, grouped by standard organizations: ASME, ASTM, and API. Each includes the code number/name and a title. Follow the links for getting on overview of these codes and standards and their usage.