110 likes | 307 Views
NVLAP. Sean Barr. BENEFITS OF NVLAP ACCREDITATION. NVLAP is a system recognized internationally for accrediting competent laboratories in the performance of specific test, calibrations and verifications of specified parameters Laboratories located in North America and Asia Pacific
E N D
D O C U M E N T A T I O N & I N F O R M A T I O N S E R V I C E S NVLAP Sean Barr
BENEFITS OF NVLAP ACCREDITATION • NVLAP is a system recognized internationally for accrediting competent laboratories in the performance of specific test, calibrations and verifications of specified parameters • Laboratories located in North America and Asia Pacific • Based on ISO/IEC standards • Linked to NIST measurement and research • Sets the institution apart from others in similar fields
NVLAP Support of Federal Agency Programs • U.S. Department of Energy • Environmental Protection Agency • Nuclear Regulatory Commission • DOE’s Weapons program (NNSA) • National Security Agency • Federal Communications Commission (FCC) • Department of the Navy (DOD) • Department of Housing and Urban Development
NVLAP Support of Federal Agency Programs • NVLAP Conducts two programs mandated by Congress • Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA) for testing for asbestos in public schools • Help America Vote Act (HAVA) for the testing of voting machinces
NVLAP LABORATORY ACCREDITATION • Independent, third party assessment of laboratory technical competence • Standard(s) based assessment • Assess specific scope of accreditation • Assessment by peer technical experts • Results in formal recognition by an authoritative body (NIST/NVLAP) • Accreditation renewed annually
ACCREDITATION PROCESS • Accreditation review process involves several key areas to be demonstrated proficiently • Follow ISO/IEC 17025.2006 format • Complete organizational structure for all key components of the laboratory • Designation of Technical and Quality Managers • Associated qualifications of staff and management personnel • Demonstration of program ownership from top to bottom • Insurance of uncompromised integrity during change of personnel • Incorruptible and sound technical values ingrained in the laboratory operation irrespective of personnel change
ACCREDITATION PROCESS • Defined document control structure/process • Process insures consistency of test/evaluation • Defined process of internal and external communications with customers and staff • Control of records to the extent that data/methods are preserved to enable repeatability • Insurance of quality associated with parts/supplies that support calibration/testing • Demonstration of customer satisfaction and feedback
ACCREDITATION PROCESS • Control of nonconforming work • Complaints and resolutions • Evaluation of processes through internal and external assessments and management reviews • Demonstration of protecting proprietary information for customers • Control/recording of environmental conditions that can potentially impact calibration results
ACCREDITATION PROCESS • A comprehensive review and documentation of succession planning to ensure continuity when/if staff changes occur • Ensure ownership of the program outlined in Quality Manual from top to bottom • Verification of qualifications and training program effectiveness
WHY NVLAP • NVLAP is part of NIST and therefore receive recognition in the Federal Records • NVLAP has signed letters of agreement with numerous international agencies that control/monitor metrology laboratories • Demonstrates professionalism, expertise and notoriety that clearly delineate us from other laboratories • More and more customers are requiring NVLAP accreditation