NECESSITY OF INVOLVEMENT OF CALIBRATION LABORATORIES IN PROFICIENCY TESTING SCHEMES

SiniĊĦa Delcev, Jelena Gucevic, Vukan Ogrizovic
Abstract:
During the accreditation, but also in its maintenance, calibration laboratories must prove their competence. According to the ISO/IEC 17025:2005 standard competence is proved by participating in interlaboratory comparisons or participation in PT (proficiency testing) schemes. However, some accreditation bodies, such as Serbia, insist on participation in PT schemes and not accredit calibration laboratory, or even take away accreditation, unless they are involved in these activities. Of course, participation in interlaboratory comparisons is default.
Unfortunately, PT schemes are not organized for all types of measure and methods as there are no accredited PT providers (for example - for the geodetic measures are not any). To some measures there is only one provider of PT, and if there are any more they charge for their services, which are not negligible. In such situations calibration laboratory located in a very difficult situation because they can not obtain or may lose accreditation.
On the other hand, participation in interlaboratory comparisons, according to the standard, also proves competence, but are easier to maintain and less costly - usually do not cost anything because all involved laboratories have the same benefit. Also, these activities can be organized between laboratories in the same state.
This paper aims to stimulate discussion and debate about ways of proving competence of calibration laboratories. We believe that, in the interpretation of ISO/IEC 17025, the laboratory can demonstrate competence by participating in any activity, PT schemes or interlaboratory comparisons, and they are equal to this need.
Keywords:
PT schemes, calibration laboratory, certification, competence
Download:
IMEKO-TC14-2013-48.pdf
DOI:
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Event details
IMEKO TC:
TC14
Event name:
TC14 ISMQC 2013
Title:

11th International Symposium on Measurement and Quality Control

Place:
Cracow and Kielce, POLAND
Time:
11 September 2013 - 13 September 2013
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