What is a dated reference and an undated reference?

A dated reference to a standard in a normative document (i.e. a regulation, standard, code of conduct, technical specification) means that a standard is referred to by identifying it through its reference number, which also includes the year of publication (in the PNs since January 2013, also the month of publication). In the light of such reference, no further amendment to the standard referred to or modification thereof is applicable. A dated reference is used in particular where a specific chapter, table or drawing included in a specific publication of a standard must be referred to. An undated reference to a standard in a normative text means that a standard is referred to by identifying it through its number, without mentioning a year of publication. Where such reference to a standard is used, the latest publication of the standard referred to (as amended) is applicable.