Do labs need to be accredited?
Since its origin in the late 1970s, ISO/IEC 17025 (formerly known as ISO Guide 25) emphasizes competence of laboratories to perform specified tests, not just mere compliance with requirements. Recognition of such competence generally requires that laboratories obtain accreditation.
What does NVLAP stand for?
The National Voluntary Laboratory Accreditation Program (NVLAP) provides third-party accreditation to testing and calibration laboratories in response to legislative actions or requests from government agencies or private-sector organizations.
Is NIST accredited?
The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) administers the National Voluntary Laboratory Accreditation Program (NVLAP). The accreditation is formalized through issuance of a Certificate of Accreditation and Scope of Accreditation and publicized by announcement in various government and private media.
What is testing and calibration laboratories?
ISO/IEC 17025 enables laboratories to demonstrate that they operate competently and generate valid results, thereby promoting confidence in their work both nationally and around the world.
Why do labs get accredited?
An accredited laboratory inspires confidence in its customers. Laboratory accreditation is the internationally accepted framework for increasing test quality and reducing the frequency of laboratory errors. Using standards ensures that the laboratory is implementing the steps that the accrediting agency requires.
Which is better for a laboratory to achieve certification or accreditation?
Accreditation is generally considered to be a higher level of recognition than certification. In fact, it is common for certification bodies to hold some kind of accreditation as an attestation to their competency to perform their duties in the field of certification.
What is Nelac certification?
NELAP stands for National Environmental Laboratory Accreditation Program and is a national accreditation program developed by the NELAC institute. NELAC standards for laboratories are modeled after similar ISO standards. This accreditation is for environmental laboratories.
What is NIST certification?
NIST certification means a product has been tested against an NIST SRM and meets the exacting requirements for that product.
How do I get NIST certified?
Accreditation is granted following successful completion of a process which includes submission of an application and payment of fees by the laboratory, an on-site assessment, resolution of any nonconformity identified during the on-site assessment, participation in proficiency testing, and technical evaluation.
What is the NIST standard for calibration?
NIST traceable calibration certifies that the lab or manufacturer in question is equipped and able to calibrate equipment to National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) standards and that products by that manufacturer match NIST-maintained measurement standards.