Standards are usually adopted as a matter of policy rather than:

Standards are often adopted as a matter of policy rather than ordinances because they serve as a framework for best practices and procedures that organizations choose to implement voluntarily. Unlike ordinances, which are laws enacted by local governments and require compliance, standards are typically established by professional organizations or industry groups to provide guidance and establish expectations within certain fields.

Ordinances are often mandatory and subject to legal enforcement, whereas standards focus on improving safety, quality, and efficiency without carrying the weight of a legal requirement. This flexibility allows organizations to adapt standards to their specific needs and circumstances, fostering a culture of safety that can enhance overall emergency services and fire protection practices. Adopting standards means that organizations can stay current with industry best practices while still allowing room for innovation and adaptation in how they operate.