The International Paralympic Committee (IPC) have released their classification model rules and the model of best practice on national classification.

It is claimed both the documents will help the IPC’s membership implement the 2015 IPC Athlete Classification Code.

The model rules are compliant with the code and international standards on classifying Para-athletes.

The IPC said they are readily accessible for international federations to adopt as part of their own rules and regulations.

"The IPC wants to ensure we can provide the best possible classification experience for Para-athletes, and we strongly encourage the use of Classification Model Rules by the membership," said Anne Hart, the IPC Classification Committee chairperson.

"We thank the National Paralympic Committees (NPCs) for their input and contribution in developing this model."

International Federations are required to have code compliant rules by January 1, 2018.

These model rules will be presented and explained in detail by the IPC Classification Committee on February 7 and 8.

This will be part of their next head of classification meeting in Bad Honnef in Germany.

A model of best practice has been published to help nations implement the code across their countries ©Getty Images

The model of best practice on national classification followed demands from countries on how to implement the code across their countries.

The IPC said the model aims to promote the development and implementation of a national classification strategy, as well as providing recommended provisions.

This includes athlete classification opportunities, classifier training and certification and monitoring code compliance at national level.

Sport federations, International Organisations of Sports for the Disabled, National Paralympic Committees and regional organisations are being invited by the IPC to attend a joint classification meeting.

This will take place at the VISTA 2017 Conference in Toronto, Canada, which is scheduled for September 20 to 23.

The classification model rules can be found here.

The model of best practice on national classification can be accessed here.