IPC 1782A establishes minimum requirements for manufacturing and supply chain traceability based on perceived risk.

This standard applies to all products, processes, assemblies, parts, components, equipment used and other items as defined by users and suppliers in the manufacture of printed board assemblies, as well as mechanical assembly and printed board fabrication. This standard is applicable both for internal traceability (i.e., traceability within the environment in which the product is assembled) and external traceability (i.e., as products and materials are moved between locations as part of their supply chain).