NEW YORK, June 25, 2009 – In recognition of the 125 years of service of ASME Codes and Standards to public safety and the contribution of these standards to advancing international commerce, Sen. Ted Kaufman (D-DE) sponsored Senate Resolution 179 honoring the lasing impact that the Society’s codes and standards have had on our nation and the world.

“One of ASME’s chief functions since its founding has been the development of tool and machine part standards, along with uniform work practices to ensure mechanical reliability,” said Sen. Kaufman before the 111th Congress on June 10.  “It is impossible to ignore the effect ASME’s codes and standards have had on global development.”

This year ASME has been commemorating the 125th anniversary of its renowned codes and standards activity, which began in 1914 with the publication of Code for the Conduct of Trials of Steam Boilers.  The yearlong celebration recognizes the volunteers who participate in the Society’s codes and standards and conformity assessment programs, which today is a global operation involving more than 4,000 committee members.

“Today in our global economy, these codes and standards are continually revised and updated to reflect changes in technology,” stated Sen. Kaufman in the resolution.  “As a result, ASME codes and standards are accepted across the globe and they help to advance international commerce.”

Currently, Sen. Kaufman is the only serving member of the U.S. Senate who has worked as an engineer, having earned a degree in mechanical engineering from Duke University.   Throughout his tenure in government, Sen. Kaufman has advocated a renewed emphasis on science and innovation to meet the challenges of a competitive global economy.

“We need to excite the young minds of thousands and thousands of young Americans about the possibilities of being an engineer, because engineers have always been the world’s problem solvers,” he added.

Today ASME publishes approximately 500 codes and standards that cover a wide range of engineered products and processes, including boilers, pressure vessels, nuclear power plant components, elevators, escalators, hand tools, fasteners, machine tools, plumbing fixtures, cranes, and transport tanks. There are more than 5,000 ASME certified manufacturers, half of which operate outside the United States. ASME’s codes and standards are adopted, referenced, and recognized in more than 100 countries.

About ASME
ASME helps the global engineering community develop solutions to real world challenges. Founded in 1880 as the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, ASME is a not-for-profit professional organization that enables collaboration, knowledge sharing and skill development across all engineering disciplines, while promoting the vital role of the engineer in society. ASME codes and standards, publications, conferences, continuing education and professional development programs provide a foundation for advancing technical knowledge and a safer world.

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ASME Contact:
John Varrasi, ASME
varrasij@asme.org or 212.591.8158

Media Contact:
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