Abstract: A laboratory with fully developed and accredited quality systems is highly desirable.
In some cases it is mandatory. This is evidenced by the concerns raised when
certain medical testing laboratories have not maintained appropriate standards to
retain their accreditation with NATA. Whether or not third party accreditation is
mandated, good laboratory practice based on sustainable systems is required.
Internationally accepted standard ISO/IEC 17025 provides specific guidelines for
operating a laboratory that may be accredited. To what extent should a university
laboratory implement this standard? Is NATA accreditation necessary? As staffing
and funding reduce is it possible to maintain high standard quality systems that are in
reality truly required if assurance of results is due? Accreditation may be required
where accreditation is due but is credit given by the institutions for the resources
required to get there or stay there? These issues are considered in relation to
university and commercial laboratories and specific case points are raised from
experience with NATA accreditation in the School of Civil Engineering, QUT.
Publication Year: 2002
Publication Date: 2002-07-04
Language: en
Type: article
Access and Citation
Cited By Count: 1
AI Researcher Chatbot
Get quick answers to your questions about the article from our AI researcher chatbot