ASTM E1580-93(2002) (R1993)

1.1 This guide covers a number of procedures that may be used by a laboratory accrediting body, either singly or as complementary activities, to provide ensurance that accredited laboratories continue to satisfy criteria and conditions for accreditation required by the accrediting body.

1.2 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

This guide is intended to be used by laboratory accrediting bodies to apply a variety of surveillance procedures that are appropriate in the maintenance of accreditation. It supplements and expands on the information related to surveillance provided in Guide E 994.

None of the surveillance procedures used alone provide ensurance on all elements of laboratory competence, but taken together, they can provide confidence for the accrediting body as to the continuing compliance of a laboratory with accreditation criteria.

Surveillance procedures establish documentary evidence as to the continuing competence of an accredited laboratory.

Confidentiality shall be maintained by the accrediting body, its staff, and its contractors for all confidential and proprietary laboratory information.