INVESTIGATION OF THE ADOPTION AND USE OF STANDARDS AND REGULATIONS BY MACHINERY MANUFACTURERS

摘要

The globalization of the economy and the competition between emerging countries has compelled machinery manufacturers in developed countries to have new production methods in an environment of "consensual" standardization and extensive regulation. However, very little research has focused on the use of these standards and regulations. This empirical exploratory study aims to develop a profile of the adoption and use of normative and regulatory documents by Quebec machinery manufacturers. It investigated the data from 46 manufacturing companies in this Canadian province. The statistical analyses led to many relevant findings. They revealed that some factual characteristics positively affect these companies' use of standards and regulations. However, other apparently important factors, but having no significant impact, were also identified. The results will serve as tools for the actors (machine designers, quality and safety and health managers, government agencies, and universities) in improving machinery production and utilization conditions in Quebec, Canada and elsewhere.