There are a lot of different reasons you may need the help of a test laboratory but I am not going to cover those here. For now, let’s just start with the fact that you have decided that you need a lab. You’ve probably tried searching online and found that the results can be overwhelming. So, what should you look for? How should you pick a lab to work with? I recommend starting with the A, B, C’s.
Accreditation:
What is accreditation? Basically, it means that a third party has reviewed the lab’s Quality Management System (QMS) to make sure it meets certain standards. This can give you more peace of mind and trust in the quality of the test results you will get.
Most testing laboratories should be accredited to ISO 17025. This international standard is equivalent to the standard used for Quality Management Systems used in the manufacturing industries (ISO 9001).
Other industries have their own accreditations and certifications. For example, aerospace components and materials may require PWA or Airbus certifications.
When looking into a laboratory you may want to work with, ask what accreditations they may have. Most labs are proud of the hard work their teams put into maintaining their accreditation and are happy to share their accreditation certificates with their clients.
Breadth of Testing:
What type(s) of testing can the laboratory perform. If you have a specific test method you need, are they familiar with it? Is it listed on their scope of accreditation? How much experience do they have with this test?
It’s also a good idea to look into what other testing they can perform beyond what you may be interested in now. A versatile and reliable lab can save you time and money on your current and future testing needs.
It is also very important to determine if the lab actually performs the testing you are looking for in house. Or will they be sub-contracting it out? If they do not actually perform the testing you need and they may not understand the details and limitations of these tests. When possible, it’s best to go straight to the source.
Communication:
As with any relationship, personal or professional, it is often said that “Communication is Key.” This is especially true when choosing a laboratory to work with. Throughout the relationship with a lab, you will have a wide variety of questions regarding the test method(s), quotation, delivery time, material requirements, interpretation of the results, etc.
Working with a laboratory that will reliably and clearly answer your questions in a timely manner will inevitably save you time, money and an unnecessary headache.
Finding the right laboratory for your needs doesn’t have to be an overwhelming endeavor. Just remember your A, B, C’s!
Or you could save time and just reach out to us at APM Testing, we are happy to help!