Codes and Standards

Getting Started 

Before you begin its important to note that most standards (physical or digital) need to be purchased from the developer before they can be viewed. If the library doesn't have a standard in our collection nor access via a developer site - You can always request a standard and the library may be able to get this for you. Please note that the library has a limited budget and this is not a guarantee. 

You can request a standard by following this link to the MSOE request form. 

Searching:

When looking for standards, you can always run a basic search via the internet, but if you're having trouble try these methods of searching:

• Check the ICS Code: (International Classification of Standards) code is a hierarchical classification by subject assigned to almost all standards. Think of this like a Dewey decimal number for books. Using a ICS code allows you to search for a type of standard across multiple standard collections. Check the ISO Code book here for free. 
• If you have access to a code number: Each code is made up of a series of numbers and letters - understanding what they represent can tell you about the document, who issued it, and when. For example:
  • ASTM F966-03
    ASTM = ASTM International, the developer responsible for this standard
    F966 = The alphanumeric identifier for this standard
    03 = this standard was approved in 2003

Non-specific Codes & Standard Searching:

When searching for a code or standard its important to note that the letters and numbers that represent the item is not the same as a call number for a library. You will not find the ASTM E9-19 code on the shelves. You must first know what company or organization the code stands for. Here are some questions to think about when searching:

• What agency or organization produced the code? Do your best to identify this first so that you can search the databases that house that particular agency/org.  
• Are you looking for current or historical records?
• Do you know the exact code you're looking for or more of a general idea?
• Have you checked our databases to see if we have access?

If you have answered these questions you are already half way there. If you do not have a specific code in mind try the following steps:

• What is the goal you're trying to accomplish? 
• What safety standards need to be considered?
• What are some keywords that describe your process or test?

When looking up general codes try breaking down the process or steps - use that to generate keywords. For instance: You want to test the properties of rubber under pressure. Rubber is already a strong keyword but for pressure you can expand that category with words like compression, compaction, stress, and force. Do your best to find out what agency you'd need to look into that may house this code. You may have to do some Google searching in order to determine what you're looking for. 

The last thing to do if you cannot find it yourself is to talk to a librarian. They will ask you for the above information and will do their best to assist. Let the librarian know if you're more interested in learning to search on your own or just need help finding a specific resource. Please be aware that librarians are NOT subject experts on this topic and cannot confirm if a code/standard is the one you need. You will need to verify you have the correct item by asking an advisor, professor, or industry expert. 

If you have suggestions for how to make this page better, please contact Elizabeth Jerow, Library Director (jerow@msoe.edu).