What are the main functions of the SLSI, and what sort of a role does it have when it comes to ensuring standards in Sri Lanka?
Sri Lanka Standards Institution is responsible for developing national standards for products, processes, and services in the country. SLSI, as the National Standards Body in Sri Lanka and the Member body of the International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO) in Sri Lanka, assures consumer protection by facilitating quality improvements and thereby contributing in vital measure to national economy. SLSI ensures that the Sri Lanka standards are formulated on par with internationally approved procedures and it is vital in maintaining the quality of life of the nation.
SLSI provides certification services to ensure that products, processes, and systems comply with established standards. SLSI has the sole proprietorship of The SLS mark which symbolises the quality and reliability of the product giving confidence to the user and adding value to the product. SLS symbol marked products are manufactured in accordance with applicable Sri Lanka standards. SLS mark has gained a reputation as a “Symbol of Quality in which provides a third-party guarantee to the consumer. Addition to product certification SLSI provides system certification such as ISO 9001, ISO 22000, ISO 14000 and many more which helps in verifying the quality, safety, reliability and sustainability of a company and its brand name in the market. The Vidatha and GMP certification executed by the SLSI are for the improvement of the products and services provided by the SME sector in order for them to achieve excellence in local and global markets.
Another one of the major activities of Sri Lanka Standard Institution (SLSI) is Quality Assurance of imported and exported products. The key function of QA division is the assurance of right quality which meets the Sri Lanka product standard specifications when products are imported and exported. SLSI facilitates the importers for the clearance of designated goods ensuring the product conformity under the mandatory Import Inspection activities. In-addition, pre-export inspection certificates are issued for the benefit of exporters which facilitates to access foreign markets.
The institution conducts conformity assessment activities to verify that products comply with the relevant standards. This involves assessing whether manufacturers adhere to the established criteria of product standards. This process is carried out by the laboratory services division of SLSI through its six laboratories; Chemical Testing Laboratory, Electrical & Electronics Testing Laboratory, Food Testing Laboratory, Materials Testing Laboratory, Microbiology Testing Laboratory and Textile, Paper & Polymer Testing Laboratory. Further the ISO 17025 accredited calibration laboratory of the Metrology Division of Sri Lanka Standards Institution fulfils a national obligation by being a part of our national measurement system which provides extensive industrial calibration services, covering a wide range of measurements which are traceable to National or International Standards.
SLSI provides training programmes and educational initiatives to enhance the understanding and implementation of standards and quality management principles among professionals, businesses and the public.
Further, Sri Lanka National Quality Award (SLNQA) is an annual Award
SLSI provides certification services to ensure that products, processes, and systems comply with established standards. SLSI has the sole proprietorship of The SLS mark which symbolises the quality and reliability of the product giving confidence to the user and adding value to the product. SLS symbol marked products are manufactured in accordance with applicable Sri Lanka standards.
scheme based on the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award of the USA to recognise Sri Lankan Organisations that excel in quality management and quality achievement.
What are the government entities/ groups SLSI regularly works with?
SLSI renders its service to the import and export controller and Sri Lanka customs through Import Inspection Scheme to help them debar substandard quality imports and trading in the country. Additionally, SLS Mark has been made compulsory through various directives issued by various regulatory authorities such as Consumer Affairs Authority, Internal Trade Department, ministry of health and import export department.
Moreover, in order to address the needs of the national economy through MSME sector SLSI collaborate with National Enterprise Development Authority, Small Enterprises Development Division, Samurdhi Department, island wide District Divisional Secretariats and other Government and non-government organisations operating for the betterment of small and medium entrepreneurs to improve their product and service quality.
What sort of relationship does SLSI have with the private sector?
The relationship between the SLSI and the private sector is collaborative and integral to the country’s economic development. SLSI, as the national standards body, plays a crucial role in promoting quality and safety standards across various industries. It works closely with the private sector to establish and update standards that ensure products and services meet international benchmarks, fostering competitiveness and consumer trust. The SLSI engages in dialogue with businesses to understand industry needs, encourage adherence to standards, and provide certification services. Additionally, it collaborates with industry associations, offering technical assistance and training to enhance compliance. This partnership benefits both parties, as the private sector gains credibility and access to global markets through adherence to recognised standards, while SLSI contributes to the overall growth and quality assurance of the nation’s industries.
When it comes to the international/ latest situation regarding standards, do you think that Sri Lanka is up to date? What are the standards-related international good practices Sri Lanka can adopt?
Assessing Sri Lanka’s alignment with international standards in the latest context requires a comprehensive examination of various sectors. While Sri Lanka has made strides in certain areas, there may be challenges in keeping pace with rapidly evolving global standards across the board. In industries such as technology, trade, and environmental practices, the nation has demonstrated efforts to adopt and adhere to international benchmarks. As examples the management system standards and cyber security standards we utilise in Sri Lanka are the benchmarked standards in the world. Further with the advancement on Covid-19 in 2019 we developed a management system standard to minimise the thread in a controlled space such as a factory which was the first such standard in the world. However, there might be room for improvement in sectors where advancements occur at a swift pace. Regular assessments and collaborations with international bodies such as ISO, IEC, BSI and ITU can help Sri Lanka stay abreast of the latest standards. And as the national standards body and the member body of ISO in Sri Lanka we ensure the continued integration into the global community and fostering sustainable development through collaborations.
Sri Lanka, in pursuit of global excellence and sustainable development, can embrace several standards-related international good practices across various sectors. In terms of quality management, adhering to ISO 9001 standards can enhance the efficiency and reliability of
Sri Lankan industries, fostering both local and international trust. Embracing environmental sustainability could involve adopting ISO 14001 to ensure responsible resource management and reduce the ecological footprint. In the realm of food safety, compliance with ISO 22000 can bolster the country’s agricultural and food processing industries. By incorporating these standards-related international good practices, Sri Lanka can position itself as a responsible global player, attracting investments and promoting sustainable growth.
In your opinion, what sort of standards -related targets should Sri Lanka focus on in the long run?
In my opinion, Sri Lanka should prioritise a comprehensive approach to standards-related targets in the long run to foster sustainable development and global competitiveness. Firstly, the nation should concentrate on enhancing and enforcing quality standards across key industries such as food and agriculture, construction and tourism, ensuring that their products and services meet international benchmarks.
This would not only elevate the reputation of Sri Lankan goods but also facilitate greater access to global markets. Secondly, the country should invest in the development and implementation of environmentally sustainable standards to address pressing issues such as climate change and resource conservation. By adopting eco-friendly practices, Sri Lanka can contribute to a greener future while attracting environmentally-conscious consumers and investors. We have introduced standards such as ISO 14001 and sustainable fuel wood standard with this in mind. Additionally, focusing on standards related to technological advancements and digital infrastructure can position Sri Lanka as a tech-savvy nation, promoting innovation and attracting foreign investments. Lastly, investing in educational standards such as ISO 21001 to enhance the skills and knowledge of the workforce is crucial for sustained economic growth. In summary, a holistic approach encompassing quality, environmental sustainability, technology, and education standards will be pivotal for Sri Lanka’s long-term success on the global stage.