American National Standards Institute

The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) is a private, non-profit organization that serves as the administrator and coordinator of the U.S. voluntary standards and conformity assessment system. Established in 1918, ANSI's core mission is to enhance the global competitiveness of U.S. businesses and improve the quality of life in the United States by promoting and facilitating voluntary consensus standards and conformity assessment systems, while safeguarding their integrity. The Institute maintains its headquarters in Washington, D.C., with an operations office located in New York City.

ANSI does not develop standards itself; instead, it oversees the development and use of standards by accrediting the procedures of standards developing organizations (SDOs) and approving American National Standards (ANS). The organization also accredits bodies that perform product or personnel certification. ANSI plays a crucial role in coordinating U.S. standards with international standards, serving as the official U.S. representative to the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and, via the U.S. National Committee (USNC), to the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). Its activities span nearly every sector, including technology, manufacturing, telecommunications, energy, healthcare, construction, and financial services.

In recent leadership news, Laurie E. Locascio, Ph.D., was named President and CEO, effective January 2025. ANSI continues to be active in current industry priorities, having recently partnered for World Engineering Day for Sustainable Development 2026 and launched a multi-phase initiative in April 2026 to strengthen U.S. coordination on critical minerals standards. The Institute also published the 2025 edition of the United States Standards Strategy (USSS) and the 4th edition of the United States Conformity Assessment Procedures. ANSI's New York City operations office relocated in July 2024. The organization remains a strong voice for the U.S. voluntary standards community, fostering the potential of standards for businesses and consumers globally.

Latest updates

ANSI Report Highlights EV Infrastructure Standards Gaps Amidst Mainstream Adoption

Event summary

  • The ANSI Electric Vehicles Standards Panel (EVSP) released an April 2026 'Gaps Progress Report' identifying key safety and infrastructure priorities for U.S. EV deployment.
  • The report elevated fire protection in older buildings, power export (vehicle-to-grid), and cable management to 'high priority' status.
  • The EVSP builds on a 2023 roadmap that initially identified 37 standardization gaps, with this update reporting progress on 17 and adding three new ones.
  • The EVSP does not develop standards but coordinates efforts among public and private stakeholders, including over 130 organizations.

The big picture

The ANSI report underscores a critical challenge in the rapid expansion of EV infrastructure: ensuring safety and grid compatibility alongside the technology's adoption. The prioritization of fire safety in existing buildings signals a potential bottleneck for urban EV deployment, while the focus on power export anticipates the growth of bidirectional charging and vehicle-to-grid applications. This signals a shift from purely technological development to a more holistic approach encompassing safety, regulatory compliance, and grid integration.

What we're watching

Regulatory Headwinds
The increased focus on fire safety in older buildings suggests potential regulatory hurdles for EV charging infrastructure deployment in urban areas, which could slow expansion.
Execution Risk
The need for coordination among 130+ organizations to address these standards gaps indicates a complex and potentially slow implementation process, increasing execution risk for EV infrastructure projects.
Governance Dynamics
The ongoing sponsorship by NEMA and the panel's reliance on stakeholder engagement highlight the importance of industry collaboration in shaping EV standards, which could influence the direction of technological development.

Additive Manufacturing Standards Progress Signals Scaling Hurdles

Event summary

  • America Makes and ANSI published the April 2026 Gaps Progress Report from the Additive Manufacturing Standardization Collaborative (AMSC).
  • The report tracks progress on 35 of 141 previously identified standardization gaps in additive manufacturing.
  • The AMSC’s 2023 Standardization Roadmap involved input from approximately 300 experts.
  • No new gaps were identified in the April 2026 update.
  • The next progress report is anticipated in September 2026.

The big picture

The additive manufacturing industry's growth is heavily reliant on establishing robust standards to ensure safety, consistency, and scalability. While the AMSC's report highlights progress, the ongoing need for standardization underscores the challenges in transitioning AM from niche applications to widespread industrial use. The collaborative nature of the AMSC suggests a recognition of the complexity involved in aligning diverse stakeholders across the AM value chain.

What we're watching

Scaling Challenges
The lack of new gap identification, while seemingly positive, may indicate a slowdown in the pace of standardization, potentially hindering broader AM adoption across industries.
Roadmap Evolution
The AMSC's transition to the next version of its roadmap will reveal whether the collaborative approach can adapt to the evolving needs of the additive manufacturing landscape.
Regulatory Impact
The continued reliance on voluntary consensus standards, rather than mandated regulations, will influence the speed and consistency with which additive manufacturing integrates into regulated sectors like aerospace and medical devices.

ANSI Initiative Aims to Shape U.S. Critical Minerals Standards

Event summary

  • ANSI is launching a multi-phase initiative to coordinate U.S. critical minerals standards, funded by the U.S. Department of Energy.
  • The initiative includes a standards landscape assessment, webinar series, a hybrid workshop (September 2026), and a summary report.
  • A Request for Information (RFI) is currently open to inform the standards landscape assessment.
  • ANSI convenes a quarterly U.S. ISO Critical Minerals Standards Coordination Group to align international standards activities.

The big picture

The U.S. faces increasing pressure to secure its critical minerals supply chains amid rising global demand and geopolitical tensions. ANSI's initiative represents a formal effort to address fragmented domestic standards and align with international efforts, but its effectiveness will depend on collaboration between government, industry, and standards organizations. This move underscores the growing recognition of critical minerals as a strategic asset, vital for national security and economic competitiveness.

What we're watching

Geopolitical Alignment
The initiative's success hinges on the U.S.'s ability to meaningfully contribute to the G7 Critical Minerals Standards Roadmap, suggesting potential friction points if differing priorities emerge.
Regulatory Headwinds
The scope and stringency of the standards developed will be heavily influenced by the current administration's policies, creating uncertainty for companies navigating the evolving regulatory landscape.
Industry Adoption
The ultimate impact of the initiative will depend on the willingness of U.S. industry stakeholders to adopt and implement the new standards, potentially requiring incentives or mandates to ensure widespread compliance.

Hydrogen Standards Push Signals Accelerated Infrastructure Buildout

Event summary

  • ANSI is hosting a hybrid technical workshop on hydrogen standards in Washington, DC, June 22-23, 2026.
  • The workshop is part of ANSI's Hydrogen Standards Coordination Initiative, covering the full hydrogen value chain.
  • The initiative aims to identify research needs, evaluate existing standards, and address regulatory considerations for hydrogen adoption.
  • Webinar recordings covering the hydrogen standards landscape are now publicly available.
  • The workshop is sponsored by a consortium including AMPP, ASME, ASTM International, CGA, CSA Group, and ICC.

The big picture

The ANSI workshop underscores the accelerating pace of hydrogen infrastructure development and the critical need for standardized safety and technical protocols. As hydrogen deployment expands beyond pilot projects, the lack of consistent standards poses a significant barrier to widespread adoption and investment. This initiative represents a concentrated effort to address those gaps and facilitate a more coordinated approach across the value chain, which is essential for attracting the substantial capital required for large-scale hydrogen projects.

What we're watching

Regulatory Headwinds
The workshop's focus on regulatory considerations suggests that evolving policy frameworks will be a key driver – and potential constraint – on hydrogen deployment, requiring ongoing stakeholder coordination.
Execution Risk
The breadth of stakeholders involved (industry, government, academia, standards bodies) indicates a complex coordination challenge; the success of the initiative hinges on effective collaboration and consensus-building.
Governance Dynamics
The involvement of multiple sponsoring organizations signals a fragmented standards landscape that ANSI is attempting to unify, and the long-term viability of this coordination effort remains to be seen.

ANSI Partnership Highlights Standards' Role in Addressing Global Sanitation Crisis

Event summary

  • ANSI has partnered with World Engineering Day (WED) 2026, an initiative of UNESCO and the World Federation of Engineering Organizations.
  • The partnership highlights ANSI's role in developing ISO 30500, a standard for non-sewered sanitation systems costing less than $0.05 per person per day.
  • ISO 30500 has been revised based on real-world implementation feedback, demonstrating a commitment to continuous improvement.
  • WED 2026 celebrations begin in Jakarta, Indonesia, on March 4, 2026, with a year-long campaign focused on 'Smart engineering for a sustainable future through innovation and digitalization'.

The big picture

This partnership underscores the growing recognition of standards as critical infrastructure for achieving UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in addressing basic human needs. ANSI's role as a facilitator of international standards positions it as a key player in global development initiatives, but also exposes it to the complexities of cross-border collaboration and the potential for political interference. The focus on 'smart engineering' and digitalization signals a shift towards more technologically advanced and data-driven solutions in the standards development process.

What we're watching

Implementation Scale
The effectiveness of ISO 30500 will depend on its adoption rate across developing nations, and whether the low-cost model proves sustainable in diverse environments.
Digital Integration
Given the WED 2026 theme, ANSI’s ability to integrate digital technologies into its standards development and implementation processes will be a key indicator of future success.
Geopolitical Risk
The reliance on international collaboration for standards development exposes ANSI to geopolitical risks and potential disruptions in the global supply chain.

ANSI Broadens Consumer Standards Engagement Amid US Strategy Shift

Event summary

  • ANSI rebranded its consumer webinar series from 'Consumer Safety Central' to 'Consumer Standards Central' to encompass a wider range of standards impacting consumers.
  • The initiative aims to increase consumer participation in standards development across sectors like AI, textiles, and pet care.
  • Three webinars are scheduled for 2026: March 5, June 17, and November 19, with thematic focuses and guest speakers.
  • The expansion aligns with the U.S. Standards Strategy 2025, which emphasizes the importance of consumer input in the U.S. standards system.
  • Cleo Stamatos (ANSI) and Jonathan Midgett (former CPSC Consumer Ombudsman) will continue to lead the series.

The big picture

ANSI's move reflects a broader trend toward greater stakeholder involvement in standards development, driven by increased scrutiny of technology and product safety. The U.S. Standards Strategy 2025 signals a deliberate effort to formalize this engagement, potentially reshaping the influence of consumer groups on industry practices. This shift could impact the speed and direction of innovation across numerous sectors.

What we're watching

Governance Dynamics
The effectiveness of ANSI's broadened approach will depend on its ability to attract and retain diverse consumer representatives, moving beyond a safety-centric focus.
Regulatory Headwinds
Increased consumer involvement in standards may lead to more stringent requirements and potentially slower adoption rates for certain technologies and products.
Execution Risk
The success of the US Standards Strategy 2025 hinges on ANSI's ability to translate the strategy's goals into tangible, impactful changes in standards development processes.

ANSI Taps Veteran to Lead Digital Transformation Amid Standards Evolution

Event summary

  • Ed Anderson has been appointed Chief Digital Officer at ANSI, effective February 23, 2026.
  • Anderson previously served as Chief Administrative Officer and CFO for Habitat for Humanity International, overseeing $2.4 billion in operations.
  • He also held the role of CIO and Director at the International Monetary Fund, modernizing key functions.
  • Mike Petosa, who led ANSI’s technology department for 21 years, is retiring and will serve as a strategic advisor until March 31, 2026.

The big picture

ANSI’s appointment of a dedicated Chief Digital Officer signals a recognition of the accelerating need for digital modernization within the standards ecosystem. The organization, representing a vast network of businesses and organizations, faces pressure to adapt to evolving technological landscapes and maintain its relevance in a rapidly changing global economy. Anderson’s experience in leading digital transformations at large, international non-profits suggests a focus on operational efficiency and scalability, potentially impacting the organization’s governance and stakeholder relationships.

What we're watching

Execution Risk
Anderson’s success will hinge on his ability to integrate disparate systems and processes across ANSI’s diverse membership, a challenge given the organization’s consensus-driven approach to standards development.
Governance Dynamics
The transition from Petosa to Anderson presents a risk of disruption; the effectiveness of Petosa’s advisory role will be crucial in maintaining continuity and momentum.
Regulatory Headwinds
Increased digitalization of standards development and delivery may attract greater regulatory scrutiny, requiring ANSI to proactively address data privacy and security concerns.

ANSI Partners with BSB to Digitize India's Compliance Ecosystem

Event summary

  • ANSI and BSB Edge have launched ANSI Bharat Compliance™, a new digital compliance platform for the Indian market.
  • The platform aims to modernize compliance for India's manufacturers, exporters, laboratories, and certification bodies.
  • ANSI Bharat Compliance™ comprises two offerings: ANSI Bharat-Industry™ (for organizations) and ANSI Bharat-Trust™ (for certification bodies).
  • The platform leverages ANSI Compliance Solutions, a cloud-based system already used globally.
  • Rollout will occur in phases throughout 2026, targeting key industrial sectors and export markets.

The big picture

India's ambition to become a global manufacturing hub necessitates a significant upgrade to its compliance infrastructure, which has historically relied on manual processes. This partnership addresses a critical need for digitization and standardization, potentially streamlining trade and reducing operational costs for Indian businesses. The move also represents a strategic expansion for ANSI, leveraging its global standards expertise in a rapidly growing market.

What we're watching

Market Adoption
The success of ANSI Bharat Compliance™ hinges on rapid adoption within India's fragmented compliance landscape; resistance to digital transformation could impede growth.
Competitive Response
Existing compliance consultants and fragmented software solutions will likely react to this platform, potentially creating pricing pressure or alternative offerings.
Regulatory Alignment
The platform's long-term value depends on its ability to adapt to evolving Indian regulations and maintain alignment with global accreditation pathways.

ANSI Launches Initiative to Coordinate Hydrogen Standards Development

Event summary

  • ANSI has initiated a Hydrogen Standards Coordination Initiative to address safety and technical standards across the hydrogen value chain.
  • Phase I focuses on awareness, including a database of existing standards (via RFI) and informational webinars scheduled for March 16 and 31, 2026.
  • Phase II, launching in Spring 2026, will involve a technical workshop and an executive report identifying standards gaps and recommendations.
  • ANSI is soliciting industry input through an RFI, with submissions due March 6, 2026.
  • The initiative is sponsored by ASTM International, the Compressed Gas Association (CGA), and CSA Group.

The big picture

The initiative underscores the growing recognition of the need for robust standards to support the scaling of hydrogen technologies, which are increasingly viewed as a key component of decarbonization efforts. ANSI's role as a standards coordinator is crucial for ensuring safety, reliability, and commercial viability, particularly as hydrogen moves beyond industrial applications into transportation and energy storage. The initiative's success will depend on broad industry participation and a proactive approach to addressing emerging challenges.

What we're watching

RFI Response
The thoroughness and breadth of responses to the RFI will indicate the level of industry engagement and the true scope of existing hydrogen standards activities.
Phase II Scope
The focus of the Phase II technical workshop and the resulting executive report will reveal the most pressing standardization challenges facing the hydrogen sector.
Interoperability
How effectively ANSI can harmonize existing and emerging standards will be critical to ensuring interoperability and preventing fragmentation within the hydrogen value chain.
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