Every day conformity assessment impacts our lives from the time we wake up, when we turn on an electric switch, when we buy and consume our food, when we travel, when we are at work or play, when we answer the phone, when we use a health service, when we are enjoying the outdoors, when we turn on the television, when we relax in the evening and even when we are sleeping.

Conformity assessment matters as it gives all of us confidence and certainty about the environment in which we live.

Conformity assessment can be used in societies on a voluntary or regulatory (mandatory) basis. It can be used by regulators to help them implement public policy objectives, to confirm compliance and take corrective actions where necessary. When designed and used appropriately, mandatory conformity assessment requirements can enable efficient market operation and access, and protect health, safety and the environment.