What is the fundamental difference between codes and standards?

The fundamental difference between codes and standards lies in their legal status and how they are implemented. Codes are indeed enforced by law, meaning that adherence to them is mandatory and often tied to compliance with legal requirements in various fields, including construction, healthcare, and safety. This legal enforcement ensures that codes are followed to protect public health, safety, and welfare.

Standards, on the other hand, are generally developed by voluntary organizations and serve as guidelines or best practices. While they can influence codes and may be adopted as part of legal regulations, compliance with standards is typically voluntary unless they specifically become incorporated into a law or regulation.

Understanding this distinction is crucial for professionals in fields such as biomedical engineering, where knowing the legal implications of codes versus the recommended practices outlined in standards can impact the safety and effectiveness of medical devices and equipment.