As much as we attempt to avoid nonconformities (NCs), they are bound to occur regardless of the competencies, written instructions, and preventative risk mitigation in place within an organization. Nonconformities can come from internal and external audits, complaints, feedback, or all varieties
Accreditation Case Study: Montana Department of Justice Forensic Science Division
The Montana Department of Justice’s Forensic Science Division is the only forensic laboratory in the state with facilities in Missoula and Billings. With about 40 scientists, the division serves law enforcement agencies throughout the state along with the medical examiner’s office. The laboratory
The New NIST Hemp RM: An Opportunity for the Hemp Testing Industry
The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) now offers a hemp reference material (RM) that will help hemp testing laboratories accurately measure core compounds in hemp and cannabis plant products. This development is a significant new opportunity for the hemp industry because hemp
Common Calibration Certificate Findings
When working with clients that need accredited calibration services, ISO/IEC 17025 instructs laboratories on what is required for accredited calibration certificates in many sections, including 7.8.2.1, 7.8.4.1, and 7.8.6. These requirements are strengthened further by A2LA’s normative requirements
Explaining ISO/IEC 17025 Competency Requirements
Accreditation proves an organization’s ability to perform work competently, which is why ISO/IEC 17025 places a heavy emphasis on personnel competency within section 6.2. This section of the standard contains several requirements—mainly covered in clauses 6.2.2 and 6.2.5—and it is one of the top ten
The 5 Whys: Finding Causes of Nonconformities
When a nonconformity occurs within a system, process, or product, the initial reaction individuals often have is to immediately correct the issue at hand. Although it is critical to ensure the nonconformity is addressed in an appropriate manner, it is also important to identify the potential causes
National Industrial Hemp Council Offers New Member Discount to Hemp Testing Laboratories for A2LA-NIHC Verify Joint Recognition Program
NIHC Verify Membership fee lowers to $325 per year for new hemp testing laboratories entering the program for the first two years Frederick, Md (October 29, 2024) – The American Association for Laboratory Accreditation (A2LA) and the National Industrial Hemp Council (NIHC) have announced a
Accreditation Case Study: PT Canada
Accreditation bodies, like A2LA, accredit PTPs to ISO/IEC 17043, the general requirements for the competence of proficiency testing providers, to provide third-party assurance and give customers confidence in the quality of the program. PT Canada (PTC), an A2LA accredited proficiency testing