1. Preamble

The content of any standardization activity aimed at establishing reference manuals is, for the most part, dependent on the regulatory system to which it belongs. Thus, a program resulting from a voluntary certification system would not be created in the same way as one originating from a mandatory certification system. Although these programs have certain points in common, each is subject to different requirements.

In order for a voluntary certification system to be credible and valued by both producers and users, it is imperative that those involved are in agreement with normative requirements. As such, the established program consists of procedures placing more emphasis on voting methods and on representing diverse interests.

Mandatory systems result from legislation, regulations or decrees adopted by public authorities. Approved standards are thus an extension of current regulations in effect, and are enforced by law. The objectives of existing regulations take precedence over the interests of those concerned and, for the most part, these regulations also specify parameters upon which normative requirements must be based so that they will meet the initial objectives of the law.

Whether standardization is voluntary or mandatory, the approaches may vary, even if they share the same objectives.

The standardization mandate assigned to the Conseil des appellations réservées et des termes valorisants (CARTV) comes from the regulatory framework that governs any designation reserved by the Minister, as stipulated in Quebec's Act Respecting Reserved Designations and Added-Value Claims. This Act forms the legal framework for a mandatory certification system governing reserved designation products. In addition, the Regulations Respecting Reserved Designations specify international standards that, to a great extent, will dictate the contents of the normative requirements being developed.

Section 5 of the Act stipulates that the Accreditation Board shall establish a Standards Committee in order to prepare a reference manual that is consistent with the standards and criteria prescribed by the Minister’s regulations.