Standardization News

hree-dimensional image system technology is now used in a wide variety of industries, including construction, mapping, manufacturing, mining and forensics.

However, until the approval of a new ASTM International standard, no safety guidelines specifically oriented toward 3D image system technology existed.

The ASTM standard that fills this safety gap, E2641, Practice for Best Practices for Safe Application of 3D Imaging Technology, was developed by Subcommittee E57.03 on Guidelines, part of ASTM International Committee E57 on 3D Imaging Systems.According to Ted Knaak, president, Riegl USA Inc., and chairman, E57.03, developing a safety standard was the first priority for the subcommittee. Knaak says the standard was developed with the knowledge that it will be serving the many types of industries that employ 3D imaging systems."E2641 was written in such a way as to be easily understood and flexible," says Knaak. "The subcommittee recognized that, given the diversity of applications, no single specific safety guidelines would be appropriate."

E2641 presents a practical approach to the safe operation of 3D imaging systems as well as information on the development of safety plans specific to an industry or site."It is an easily read and understood document that guides the user through the process but does not dictate a specific approach," says Knaak. "We foresee E2641 facilitating a common dialogue among all parties concerned with the safe application of these systems. Both service providers and their customers can follow a basic set of guidelines in the development and evaluation of a safety plan or more simply in the safe application of such equipment in their respective environments."

With E2641 now approved, E57.03 is developing a proposed new standard, WK28005, Guide for the Definition of 3D Image Data Requirements Necessary to Meet Project Objectives. Suppliers and users of 3D image data, specifically those responsible for technical output and with knowledge of cost and benefits, are encouraged to participate in the ongoing development of WK28005.To purchase ASTM International standards, visit www.astm.org and search by the standard designation number, or contact ASTM Customer Relations (phone: 610-832-9585).

CONTACT Technical Information: Ted Knaak, Certainty 3D LLC • Orlando, Fla. • Phone: 407-248-0160 • E-mail: ted.knaak@certainty3d.com O ASTM Staff: Pat Picariello • Phone: 610-832-9720 • E-mail: ppicarie@astm.org O Upcoming Meeting: June 6-8 • June Committee Week • St. Louis, Mo.