NECESSITY OF INVOLVEMENT OF CALIBRATION LABORATORIES IN PROFICIENCY TESTING SCHEMES

Siniša 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. <BR />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. <BR />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. <BR />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

-

IMEKO TC

TC14 - Measurement of Geometrical Quantities

Back to the proceedings