How do you reference marine engineering standards and codes?

1 Know the purpose and scope

The first step is to understand the purpose and scope of the standard or code you are using. Is it a mandatory requirement, a voluntary guideline, or a recommended practice? What are the objectives, criteria, and methods of the standard or code? What are the limitations, exceptions, and assumptions of the standard or code? You should read the introduction, scope, and definitions sections of the standard or code carefully to get a clear picture of its applicability and relevance to your project.

2 Follow the format and style

The second step is to follow the format and style of the standard or code when referencing it in your work. Different standards and codes may have different ways of presenting their information, such as numbering, headings, symbols, abbreviations, units, and references. You should use the same format and style as the standard or code when citing, quoting, paraphrasing, or summarizing it in your work. You should also use the official title, edition, year, and publisher of the standard or code when referencing it.

3 Use the correct tools and resources

The third step is to use the correct tools and resources to access and reference marine engineering standards and codes. You may need to subscribe to online databases, such as IHS Markit, ASTM Compass, or SAE Mobilus, to access the latest versions of the standards and codes. You may also need to use citation management software, such as EndNote, Zotero, or Mendeley, to organize and format your references according to the style guide of your journal, institution, or client. You may also need to consult the websites, publications, or experts of the standard or code developers to get clarifications, updates, or interpretations of the standards and codes.

4 Check the validity and compatibility

The fourth step is to check the validity and compatibility of the standard or code you are using. Standards and codes are subject to revisions, amendments, corrections, or cancellations over time. You should always use the most current and valid version of the standard or code for your project. You should also check if the standard or code is compatible with other standards and codes that apply to your project. For example, some standards and codes may refer to or incorporate other standards and codes by reference. You should verify that these references are consistent and up to date.

5 Document and justify your decisions

The fifth step is to document and justify your decisions when using marine engineering standards and codes. You should keep a record of the standards and codes you used, the reasons you chose them, the assumptions you made, the deviations you allowed, and the results you obtained. You should also provide evidence, analysis, and rationale to support your decisions. You should be prepared to explain and defend your decisions to your peers, reviewers, auditors, regulators, or stakeholders.

6 Keep learning and improving

The sixth step is to keep learning and improving your knowledge and skills in using marine engineering standards and codes. You should stay updated on the latest developments, trends, and innovations in marine engineering and related fields. You should also seek feedback, guidance, and collaboration from other marine engineers, standard and code developers, and industry experts. You should also review and evaluate your own performance and outcomes, and identify areas for improvement and learning.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?