Universal methods for testing electronic cigarettes have yet to be agreed upon by traditional organizations such as the International Standardization Organization (ISO), American National Standards Institute (ANSI), and the Cooperation Centre for Scientific Research Relative to Tobacco (CORESTA). However, there are manufacturing standards in place for many component parts of electronic cigarettes. For example, Underwriters Laboratories (UL) maintains standards for batteries currently used in commercial production of electronic cigarettes and the American E-Liquid Manufacturing Standards Association (AEMSA) has published standards for the manufacture of e-liquid. Testing methods and standards for the research and production of electronic cigarettes could be codified after FDA makes its announced move to regulate this revolutionary new product.
In the absence of universal testing methods, the Electronic Cigarette Industry Group (ECIG) is working with other organizations to develop a testing protocol for electronic cigarettes. ECIG has also undertaken an effort to identify reliable, innovative and low-cost testing for importers, manufacturers and distributors of electronic cigarettes in the United States. Below, please find a list of resources industry members may consult in order to gain a better understanding of how to ensure product safety and quality.
- American E-Liquid Manufacturing Association: www.aemsa.org
- American National Standards Institute: www.ansi.org
- Cooperation Centre for Scientific Research Relative to Tobacco: www.coresta.org
- International Standardization Organization: www.iso.org
- Underwriters Laboratories: www.ul.com