Working Groups
The Working Groups (WGs) are the backbone of the 3-A SSI consensus document development process. The bulk of the standards development work is carried out by the 13 WGs, either within each WG as a whole or by forming task groups within the WGs to accomplish specific projects. Each WG consists of experts representing fabricators of related types of equipment, systems, and materials and representatives of the users and sanitarian stakeholder groups. Suppliers to OEMs, or consultants of record to OEMs may also be designated.
The majority of the Working Group business is handled via conference calls. WG members receive conference call notices and other pertinent information in a timely manner before each call. Meetings are usually a combination of one or more of the following topics:
• discussion of the need for a new standard
• discussion of potential revision(s) to existing standards
• discussion of comments or negative votes received during balloting
• drafting/writing the sections of an actual document
The technical discussion and debate that takes place during a WG meeting is critical to the 3-A Sanitary Standards and 3-A Accepted Practice development process and will heighten your understanding of the issues on the table, provide a forum for your voice to be heard, and help establish relationships with colleagues throughout your industry.
If you are interested in chairing a WG or leading the preparation of a document, see the attached Helpful Tips for 3-A SSI Work Group Chairs and Document Leaders for guidance in leading effective meetings and document review. We also suggest all participants in 3-A SSI document development become familiar with 3-A SSI Procedures for the Development and Maintenance of 3-A Sanitary Standards and 3-A Accepted Practices.
A current roster for each WG is now available. Click on the number of the Working Group roster you would like to see.
If you would like to participate or you know someone else who would be interested in participating on a WG, please complete and send the enclosed Sign Up Form (DOC) to 3-A SSI.