Record Standards & Rules
Standards for defining, measuring, documenting and reviewing PAR Record claims.
Purpose
Record standards provide a common basis for measurable recognition while allowing requirements to be adapted to the nature of a particular record category.
Clear record definition
A record claim should identify what is being measured, who or what is being measured, the relevant unit or parameter, the date or period, location where relevant and the evidence required to demonstrate the result.
Measurement
Measurements should use an understandable method appropriate to the claim. Timing, counting, distance, weight, quantity, score or another parameter should be defined before the evidence is evaluated where practicable.
Evidence
The evidence should demonstrate the result rather than merely assert it. Depending on the record, this may include continuous video, photographs, logs, official documents, measurements, witness statements or independent verification.
Comparative claims
Terms such as “fastest”, “largest”, “most”, “first” or “world record” should be used only when the applicable rules and evidence support the comparison. A PAR recognition should not be presented more broadly than the recognition decision actually recorded.
Repeatability and unusual claims
Where repeatability, calibration, specialist assessment or independent measurement is important, the applicable category may require additional evidence. Unusual or technically complex claims may require clarification or expert input.
Decision principle
Meeting a form requirement does not guarantee recognition. The complete submission and applicable evidence are considered together.