The Committee on Reference Materials (REMCO) of ISO was established in 1975. The aim of the committee is to carry out and encourage a broad international effort for the harmonization and promotion of reference materials, their production and applications, in particular to:

• Establish definitions, categories, levels and classification of reference materials for use by ISO
• Determine the characteristics of related groups (or classes) of reference materials.
• Formulate criteria for choosing sources for mention in ISO documents (including legal aspects).
• Prepare guidelines for technical committees for making reference to reference materials in ISO documents.
• Propose, as far as necessary, action to be taken on reference materials required for ISO work.
• Deal with matters within the competence of the Committee, in relation with other international organizations and to advise the Technical Management Board on action to be taken.