The first meeting of the ISO project committee (ISO/PC 240) that will develop an International Standard providing a code of good practice for establishing, implementing and managing efficient, flexible and responsive consumer product recall programmes including corrective actions, took place in May 2009, in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

ISO/PC 240, Product Recall, decided on a publication target of 2012 for the new standard (ISO 10393). ISO/PC 240 also resolved to harmonize efforts with other ISO committees developing standards for consumer product safety (ISO/PC 243), anti-counterfeiting (ISO/PC 246) and combating fraud (ISO/TC 247).

The committee extended a call for interested parties wishing to participate (through the ISO member of their respective country). Currently, about 12 countries participate in ISO/PC 240, and an additional four have observer status. Among its members, Canada, Japan, Malaysia, Republic of Korea and South Africa were present at the first meeting.

When complete, the new standard will help organizations to plan and execute timely and cost effective product recalls following design flaws, manufacturing defects, or inadequate warning labels or instructions – whether the products are still in the manufacturer’s or distributor’s inventory or retail shelves or in the hands of consumers. It will also provide guidance on corrective actions, including repair, placement, re-purchase and public notice, helping organizations to minimize legal risks, and contributing to customer satisfaction and loyalty.

The Kuala Lumpur meeting was hosted by the Department of Standards Malaysia (DSM), ISO member for the country, who provides the secretariat of the committee. ISO/PC 240’s next meeting will be held in November 2009.

•Date:2nd June 2009• Region: World •Type: Article •Topic: Retail BC
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