General requirements for the competence of testing and calibration laboratories

This international standard specifies the general requirements for the competence to carry out tests and /or calibration, including sampling. It covers testing and calibration performed using standard methods, non standard methods, and laboratory developed methods.
This international standard is applicable to all organizations performing tests and /or calibrations. These include, for example, first second and third party laboratories, and laboratories where testing and /or calibration forms part of inspection and product certification.
This international standard is applicable to all laboratories regardless of the number of personnel or the extent of the scope of testing and /or calibration activities. When a laboratory does not undertake one on more of the activities covered by this international standard, such as sampling and the design/development of new methods, the requirements of those clauses do no apply.
The notes given provide clarification of the text, examples and guidance. They do not contain requirements and do not form anintergral part of this international standard.
This international standard is for use by laboratories in developing their quality, administrative and technical systems that govern their operations. Laboratory clients, regulatory authorities and accreditation bodies may also use it in confirming or recognizing the competence of laboratories.