REFERENCE

Voluntary

Laboratory Accreditation

Program

NAT L INST. OF STAND & TECH

AlllDb 3 fi R 4

l U.S. DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE

National Bureau of Standards Carpet LAP

Handbook

OPERATIONAL AND TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS

OF THE

LABORATORY ACCREDITATION PROGRAM

FOR

CARPET

NBSIR 84-3198

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE

National Bureau of Standards

Office of Product Standards Policy

Gaithersburg, MD 20899

July 1985

CARPET LAP HANDBOOK

OPERATIONAL AND TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS

OF THE

LABORATORY ACCREDITATION PROGRAM

FOR

CARPET

NBSIR 85-3198

Wiley A. Hall, Jr. Robert L. Gladhill

Jeffrey Horlick

Harvey W. Berger

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE

National Bureau of Standards

Office of Product Standards Policy

Gaithersburg, Maryland 20899

July 1985

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE, Malcolm Baldrige, Secretary

NATIONAL BUREAU OF STANDARDS. Ernest Ambler. Director

Table of Contents

Page

I . THE CARPET LAP AT A GLANCE 1

II. INTRODUCTION 2

III. ADMINISTRATIVE AND OPERATIONAL REQUIREMENTS 4

Laboratory Code Number 4

Accreditation Period 4

Renewal 4

Publicizing Accreditation Status .......... 4

By NVLAP

By Laboratories

Compliance with Existing Laws 5

Accreditation Process 5

Application and Fees

Approved Signatory

Technical Experts

On-site Assessment

Monitoring Visits

Proficiency Testing

Technical Evaluation

Admi n i s tra ti ve Revi ew Accreditation Actions 10

IV. TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS . 11

Scope of LAP 11

Quality Assurance System 11

Documentation

Personnel

Equipment and Facilities

Maintenance and Calibration

Proficiency Testing

Test Methods and Procedures

Recordkeeping

Test Reports

V. PROFICIENCY TESTING 16

APPENDICES

NVLAP Accreditation Criteria (December 1984)

NVLAP Lab Bulletin No. 3A

Test Method List

i i i

I . THE CARPET LAP AT A GLANCE

This document presents the operational and technical requirements of the

Laboratory Accreditation Program (LAP) for Carpet. All of the steps leading to

accreditation are described. Technical requirements are explained indicating

how the NVLAP criteria are applied.

The laboratory accreditation program for carpet (Carpet LAP) was established in

1981 in response to a request from the Department of Housing and Urban

Development (HUD). The purpose of the LAP is to accredit laboratories that are competent to perform specified test methods and to give national recognition to

those laboratories for their testing capabilities.

Accreditation is available to any organization including, commercial

laboratories, manufacturer's laboratories, university laboratories, and

Federal, state, or local government laboratories that test carpet in accordance

with the test methods listed in the Appendix.

Products covered: All types and classes of carpet

Period of accreditation: One year

On-site assessment frequency: After initial application and every two years

thereafter

Proficiency testing:

Each laboratory is sent test samples, data sheets, and an information

package containing instructions for specimen preparation, conditioning,

mounting, and testing. The completed data sheets are returned to NBS for

analysis. The test methods requiring proficiency testing are marked with

an asterisk in the list of test methods included in the Application Package

sent to each applicant.

The frequency of proficiency testing is twice annually.

Fees: Administrative fee, one-time initial fee, and total test method fee

based on the number of test methods selected.

Assessors: Selected from technical experts experienced in the field of

carpet testing.
II. INTRODUCTION

Background

The U.S. Department of Commerce, National Bureau of Standards (NBS) administers

the National Voluntary Laboratory Accreditation Program (NVLAP). NVLAP's

function is to accredit public and private testing laboratories based on evaluation of their technical qualifications and competence for conducting

specific test methods in specified fields of testing. Accreditation is granted

on the basis of conformance with criteria published in the Code of Federal

Regulations as part of the NVLAP procedures (15 CFR Part 7). (See Appendix.)

This document is intended for use by staff of accredited laboratories, those

seeking accreditation, other laboratory accreditation systems, and others

needing information on the requirements for NVLAP accreditation under this LAP.

This document is generally included in the NYLAP Application Package along with

General Application Forms, Test Method Selection Lists, and other materials

needed to apply for or renew accreditation. It presents the administrative and

operational procedures and technical requirements of the LAP and should be

retained and be readily accessible to laboratory personnel.

NVLAP Accreditation

Accreditation is granted only after thorough evaluation of the applicant has

demonstrated that all NVLAP criteria have been met. The accreditation is

formalized through issuance of a Certificate of Accreditation, Scope of

Accreditation and publicized by announcement in various government and private

media.

NVLAP accreditation is available to conmercial laboratories, manufacturer's

in-house laboratories, university laboratories. Federal, State, and local

government laboratories. Foreign- based laboratories may also be accredited by

NBS if they meet the same requirements as domestic laboratories and pay any

additional fees required.

Why NVLAP Accreditation ?

The reasons why a laboratory may wish to be accredited include: legal

requirements such as regulations or codes, contract specifications, and the

desire to be recognized as being demonstrably competent to meet the needs of

its clients.

For accreditation to be meaningful, it must be granted by a clearly credible

organization. NVLAP provides an unbiased third party evaluation and

recognition of performance as well as expert technical assistance to upgrade

laboratory performance.

2
Testing Laboratory Defined

NVLAP defines a "testing laboratory" as an organization that provides services

to measure, examine, test, calibrate, or otherwise determine the

characteristics or performance of products or systems.

Accreditation Defined

NVLAP accreditation means recognition of a testing laboratory's competence to

perform specific test methods in specified fields of testing. It means that

the laboratory's quality system, staff, facilities and equipment, calibration

procedures, test methods and procedures, records, and test reports, have been

evaluated and found to meet NVLAP criteria. NVLAP accreditation does not mean

a guarantee (certification) of laboratory performance or product test data; it

is a finding of laboratory competence.

For further information about NVLAP, or assistance in understanding and meeting

the NVLAP requirements and criteria, please write or call:

NVLAP

National Bureau of Standards

ADMIN A531

Gaithersburg, MD 20899

Phone: 301-921-3431

3
III. ADMINISTRATIVE AND OPERATIONAL REQUIREMENTS

Note: Administrative and operational requirements presented here are generally

applicable to all NVLAP programs. Technical and proficiency requirements

are specifically applicable to this LAP.

LABORATORY CODE NUMBER

Each participating laboratory is assigned a four-digit laboratory code number.

The code number is used by the NVLAP staff for identification, filing,

recordkeeping, and database management. Participants are requested to put

their Lab Code number on all correspondence with NVLAP.

ACCREDITATION PERIOD

Accreditation is granted for a period specified in the LAP Application Package

(usually one year). The accreditation period begins on one of four dates:

January 1, April 1, July 1, or October 1. Once a laboratory has been assigned

an accreditation date, it retains that date as long as it remains in the

program. Accreditation expires and is renewed on that date.

RENEWAL

Each participating laboratory will be sent a renewal Application Package, well

in advance of the expiration date of its accreditation, to allow sufficient

time to complete the renewal process. The renewal application contains the same forms used for initial application, and the laboratory need only indicate

where changes have occurred from the previous period in personnel, equipment,

facilities, or the scope of accreditation desired.

With the exception of an initiation fee for new applicants, the technical

requirements and fees are the same as for initial accreditation. The

application and fees must be received by NBS prior to expiration of the

laboratory's current accreditation to avoid a lapse in accreditation.

PUBLICIZING ACCREDITATION STATUS

BY NVLAP

NVLAP publishes an annual Directory of Accredited Laboratories. The Directory

contains the name and address, scope of accreditation, contact person, and the

accreditation renewal date for each accredited laboratory. Supplements to the

Directory are published quarterly to cover interim accreditation actions

including initial accreditations, renewals, suspensions, terminations, and

revocations. The Directory is distributed nationally and internationally to

manufacturers, suppliers, retailers, professional and trade associations, code

groups, and government agencies.

4
BY LABORATORIES

Accredited laboratories are encouraged, within specified limits, to publicize

their accredited status. The major restriction is that advertising must not

imply product certification by NBS or the U.S. Government. Laboratories and

their clients may not reference their accredited status in consumer media, in

product advertising, or on product labels, containers or packaging.

A laboratory may cite its accredited status and use NYLAP logos on reports,

stationery, and in business and trade publications provided that it is clearly

indicated that it is the laboratory which is accredited. NVLAP Lab Bulletin

No. 3A provides more detailed guidance on how a laboratory may publicize its

accredited status and the statements which may be made. (See Appendix.)

COMPLIANCE WITH EXISTING LAWS

Accreditation does not relieve the laboratory of the need to observe and comply

with existing Federal, State, and local statutes, ordinances, or regulations

that may be applicable to its operations, including consumer protection and

antitrust laws.

ACCREDITATION PROCESS

Accreditation is granted following successful completion of a process which

includes submission of an application and payment of fees by the laboratory, an on-site assessment, resolution of deficiencies identified during the on-site

assessment, participation in proficiency testing, technical evaluation, and

administrative review. A diagram of the accreditation process is shown in the

figure below.

5
APPLICATION AND FEES

An Application Package is sent to a laboratory on request. It includes:

General Application Forms, a Fee Calculation Sheet, and this document. The

General Application Form must be completed and signed by an authorized

representative of the laboratory. The authorized representative is one who can act on behalf of the laboratory and commit it to fulfill the NVLAP

requirements. Before completing and signing the application, the authorized

representative should review all documents and become totally familiar with

NVLAP requirements. Although other laboratory staff may be designated to

perform activities, such as handling proficiency testing or receiving an assessor, the authorized representative is the only one who can authorize a change in the scope or nature of the application.

In general, the accreditation fee is composed of several parts, some of which

are fixed while others depend on the scope of accreditation desired and the

specifics of the LAP. The total accreditation fee must be paid before

accreditation can be granted. The individual parts of the accreditation fee

include, as appropriate : a one-time LAP initiation fee for new applicants, an administrative fee, test method fees, an assessment fee, and proficiency

testing fees. The fees for this LAP are shown in the Fee Calculation Sheet

included in the LAP Application Package.

The laboratory will be scheduled for an on-site assessment after payment of all

required fees and will be notified of any additional information which must be

supplied and of any applicable proficiency testing requirements which must be

completed for the technical evaluation.

APPROVED SIGNATORY

Under NVLAP criteria, an accredited laboratory must have one or more individuals or laboratory positions designated as having responsibility for

signing "all test reports endorsed with the NVLAP logo ." This is the per son (s)

to whom NVLAP, laboratory clients, or others would go in case of questions or problems with the report.

There is no formal requirement for nomination or approval of persons or laboratory positions designated as approved signatories. The laboratory should

inform NVLAP of its appointments by completing the appropriate sections in the

application for accreditation. Approved signatories should be: persons or positions with adequate responsibility or authority within the organization,

with adequate and appropriate technical capabilities, and without conflict of

interest. The approved signatory may be the authorized representative who is

responsi bl e for signing the NVLAP Application Form.

Laboratory test reports carrying the NVLAP logo need not be signed individually

by the approved signatory . Test report forms may be preprinted with the

required information. Forms that are electronically or computer generated may

have the information printed along with the test results.

6
TECHNICAL EXPERTS

NVLAP uses Technical Experts (TEs) as assessors and evaluators. These are individuals knowledgeable in the testing field being evaluated. They may be

engineers or scientists currently active in the field, consultants, college

professors or retired persons. They are selected on the basis of their

professional and academic achievements, experience in the field of testing,

management experience, and tact in dealing with people. Their services are generally contracted as required; they are not NVLAP staff members.

Assessors are TEs selected to conduct an on-site assessment of a particular

1 aboratory on the basis of how well their individual experience matches the

type of testing to be assessed, as well as absence of conflicts of interest.

The laboratory has the right to appeal the assignment of an assessor and may

request an alternate.

Eval uators are TEs selected to review the record of the laboratory as a whole,

including the application, assessment report, deficiencies, corrections to

deficiencies, and proficiency test results and, based on this record, to

recommend whether or not a laboratory should be accredited. The evaluators are matched to the type of testing being evaluated and are selected to avoid

conflicts of interest.

ON-SITE ASSESSMENT

Before initial accreditation and periodically thereafter, an on-site assessment

of each laboratory is conducted to determine compliance with the NVLAP

criteria. The assessment is conducted by one or more NVLAP assessors selected

on the basis of their expertise in the field of testing to be reviewed.

Assessors use checklists developed by NVLAP so that each laboratory receives an assessment comparable to that received by others. However, assessors have

considerable latitude to make judgments about a laboratory's compliance with

the NVLAP criteria, depending on the assessor's experience and the unique

circumstances of the laboratory.

Each laboratory will be contacted to arrange a mutually agreeable date for an asessment. The time needed to conduct an assessment varies, but two days is the

norm. Every effort is made to conduct an assessment with as little disruption

as possible to the normal operations of the laboratory. During the assessment

the assessor will carry out the following functions:

- meet with management and supervisory personnel responsible for the

laboratory's activities (for which accreditation is being sought) to

review the assessment process with the individuals involved and to set

the assessment agenda.

- examine the quality assurance system employed by the laboratory. The

assessor may select and trace the history of one or more samples from

receipt to final issuance of test reports. The assessor will conduct a thorough review of the laboratory's quality manual or equivalent,

evaluate the training program, examine notebooks or records pertaining

to the samples, check sample identification and tracking procedures,

determine whether the appropriate environmental conditions are maintained, and examine copies of completed test reports.

7
- review records of periodic internal audits, use of check samples or participation in round robin testing or other similar programs.

- review personnel records including resumes and job descriptions of key

personnel, competency evaluations for all staff members who routinely

perform the testing for which accreditation is sought, calibration or verification records for apparatus used, test reports, and sample

control records.

- observe demonstrations of testing techniques and discuss them with the

technical personnel to assure their understanding of the procedures.

- examine major equipment, apparatus, and facilities.

At the conclusion of the assessment, the assessor will conduct an exit briefing

to discuss his or her observations with appropriate laboratory staff and call

attention to any deficiencies uncovered. A written summary of any deficiencies

discussed will be left at the laboratory . The assessor will forward the

assessment forms and a written summary to NBS.

If deficiencies have been noted, the laboratory

must, within 3U days of the date of this

notification provide NVLAP with documentation or certification, by the authorized representative,

that the specified deficiencies have been

corrected or that specific actions are being

taken to correct the deficiencies.

A laboratory applying for initial accreditation may request an extension to

complete required corrections.

If any deficiencies are noted at laboratories which are currently accredited,

such deficiencies must be corrected within 3U days after notification or the

" laboratory may face possible revocation, suspension, or expiration of its

accreditation. Any test equipment that is identified as out-of-cal ibration,

should not be used until corrective action has been completed. All

deficiencies noted for corrective action will be subject to thorough review and

verification during subsequent assessments and technical evaluations.

MONITORING VISITS

In addition to regularly scheduled assessments, monitoring visits may be

conducted by assessors or by NBS staff at any time during the accreditation

period. Monitoring visits may occur for cause or on a random selection basis.

These visits serve to verify reported changes in the laboratory's personnel,

facilities, and operations or to explore possible reasons for poor performance

in proficiency testing.

The scope of a monitoring visit may range from checking a few designated items

to a complete review. Failure to cooperate with NVLAP assessors will be

grounds for initiation of adverse accreditation action. No additional fee is

required for the monitoring visit.

8
PROFICIENCY TESTING

Proficiency testing is an integral part of the NVLAP accreditation process.

Demonstration of appropriate facilities, equipment, personnel, etc. is

essential, but may not be sufficient for the evaluation of laboratory

competence. The actual determination of test data using special proficiency

testing samples provides NVLAP with a way to determine the overall

effectiveness of the laboratory.

Proficiency testing is a process for checking actual laboratory testing

performance, usually by means of interlaboratory comparisons. Each LAP has

unique proficiency testing requirements. The data are analyzed by NVLAP and

summary reports of the results are sent back to the participants.

For many test methods, results from proficiency testing are very good

indicators of a laboratory's testing capability. Information obtained from

proficiency testing helps to identify problems in a laboratory. When problems

are found, NVLAP staff members work with the laboratory staff to solve them. If

problems with the test method are suspected, NVLAP provides information to the

appropriate standards-writing bodies.

The specific proficiency testing requirements for this LAP are included in

Section V of this document.

TECHNICAL EVALUATION

After a laboratory has completed all the technical requirements of a LAP and is

ready for an accreditation action, a final technical evaluation is conducted by

experts chosen for their experience and knowledge of the pertinent test

methods. They review records on each applicant laboratory and base their

evaluation on:

- information provided on the application;

- on-site assessment reports;

- actions taken by the laboratory to correct deficiencies;

- results of proficiency testing; and

- information from any monitoring visits of the laboratory.

If the technical evaluation reveals additional deficiencies, written

notification describing them will be made to the laboratory. The laboratory

must respond within 30 days of such notification and provide documentation or certification by the authorized representative that the specified deficiencies

have been corrected. Clarification of some issues may be requested by

telephone. All deficiencies must be corrected before accreditation can be

granted or renewed.

9
ADMINISTRATIVE REVIEW

After the technical evaluation has been completed, the NVLAP staff prepares an administrative recommendation that the laboratory either be granted or denied

accreditation. This recommendation is based on a review of the technical

evaluation and other records to ensure that all NVLAP technical, financial and

administrative obligations have been satisfied.

ACCREDITATION ACTIONS

Acting for the Director of NBS, the Director of the NBS Office of Product

Standards Policy makes the following decisions.

Accreditation If accreditation is recommended, the recommendation forms the

basis for granting accreditation. A Certificate of

Accreditation will be issued to the laboratory.

If denial is recommended, the laboratory is notified of a proposal to deny accreditation and the reason(s) therefor.

If a laboratory is found to have violated the terms of its

accreditation, the accreditation can be suspended. The

laboratory will be notified of the reasons for and conditions

of the suspension and the action(s) that the laboratory must

take to have accreditation reinstated.

If a laboratory is found to have violated the terms of its

accreditation, the laboratory is notified of a proposal to

revoke accreditation and the reasons therefor. The laboratory

may be given the option of voluntarily terminating

accreditation. If accreditation is revoked, the laboratory

must return its Certificate of Accreditation and cease use of

the NVLAP logo on any of its reports, other correspondence, or advertising.

If denial or revocation has been proposed, the laboratory may request a hearing, under United States Code 5 U.S.C. 556, within 30 days of the date of

receipt of the notification. If a hearing is not requested, the action becomes

final upon the expiration of that 30-day period.

After a participant's accreditation has been terminated, whether voluntarily or through adverse action, the accreditation certificate must be returned to

NVLAP. If a laboratory elects not to renew or wishes to voluntarily terminate

its accreditation at any time, the notification of such intention should be

forwarded to NBS in writing.

Denial

Suspension

Revocation

10
IV. TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS

The requirements discussed in this section interpret the NVLAP criteria for

application to the Carpet LAP. These requirements do not supersede the

published NVLAP criteria which are included in the Appendix.

SCOPE OF THE LAP

The Carpet LAP covers tests for all types and classes of carpet. The test

methods for which a laboratory may seek accreditation are listed in the

Appendix. Other test methods may be added to the LAP, upon request, if they

are found to be appropriate.

QUALITY ASSURANCE SYSTEM

The key to a properly functioning organization is that it has and maintains a system of procedures and practices which assure the quality of its services.

To qualify for accreditation, an applicant must demonstrate that its quality

assurance systems ensure the technical integrity of its work.

DOCUMENTATION

A laboratory must have up-to-date documentation which thoroughly describes all

of its procedures and practices. The written descriptions should contain such

items as the method of implementation, responsible personnel, recordkeeping

system, operating procedures, procedures to employ in the event of unusual or non-standard circumstances, and scheduling. Written descriptions should

include at least the following topics:

- Organizational chart;

- Laboratory facilities and scope of services offered;

- Job/position description for all personnel;

- Personnel training procedures;

- Personnel competency assurance procedures;

- Test equipment inventory;

- Test equipment calibration, verification, and maintenance practices;

- Test performance plan;

- Specimen selection, handling, analysis, control, and identification;

- Data handling and reporting;

- Internal checks and audits;

- External standardization practices;

- Reference standards and/or materials; and

- Subcontracting practices and procedures for assuring quality

11
This documentation should be in the form of a manual but may be individual

sheets in various locations throughout the facility. If individual sheets are

used, a central reference document must be available to indicate where the

sheets may be found. The documentation must be in a format and style which can

be easily understood by technicians. It must be readily accessible to all

staff members.

PERSONNEL

Training :

Each new staff member must be trained for assigned duties and existing staff

members must be retrained when testing equipment and/or protocols are changed

or they are assigned new responsibilities. Each staff member must receive (or

have had) training for assigned duties either through on-the-job training,

formal classroom sessions or through technician certification programs.

For the Carpet LAP, the training program must include the applicable portions

of the following, as a minimum:

Electrostatic Tests:

General requirements of the test method;

Techniques for cleaning test shoes;

Technique for conducting test.

Colorfastness Tests:

General requirements of the test method;

Specimen preparation and mounting techniques;

Procedures for reading color samples against a color

scale or gray scale*;

Proper use of viewing lights such as the Macbeth light;

Proper use of filter glass and xenon light.

Determinations of Pile Weight and Thickness:

General requirements of the test method;

Specimen preparation techniques;

Rationale for choice of reagents for dissolving various

fiber types.

* NOTE: Each evaluator of color transference or fading must undergo a recognized standard color vision test at least annually. Standard color vision

tests which would be acceptable include the Farnsworth-Munsell 100 Hue D15 Test

Kit and the Isihara Color Blindness Test Booklet. The results must show color

vision of normal or better and must be retained in the employee personnel

file. See the next section on Competency.

12
Flammability Tests:

General requirements of the test method;

Specimen preparation techniques;

Mounting specimen in the test apparatus (i.e., radiant

panel, tunnel, etc.).

Cushion Tests:

General requirements of the test method;

Specimen preparation techniques;

Techniques for separating backing;

Operation of testing machine.

Durability Tests (delamination, tuft bind, etc.):

General requirements of the' test method;

Specimen preparation techniques;

Operation of tensile testing machine.

Competency :

In addition to training, the supervisor must evaluate the competency of each

staff member by observing the performance of each testing protocol each staff

member is authorized to conduct. The performance observation must be conducted

annually by the immediate supervisor or his designee. A record of the staff

member's performance must be placed in the personnel file, dated and signed by

the supervisor.

Technical Director :

The laboratory technical director shall be a professional experienced in the

testing area for which accreditation is desired. This individual should have

the technical competence and the supervisory responsibility to direct the work

of professionals and technicians in the appropriate area. Responsibility for

the quality assurance program may reside with the technical director or with

another individual having knowledge and experience in quality assurance who has

a direct line of communication to the technical director and other

organizational management.

The assessor will review resumes or other information to substantiate the

qualifications of the Technical Director and all key individuals.

Any organizational or personnel changes that could affect the performance of

the testing service (e.g.. Technical Director, technical supervision,

responsibility for quality assurance program) shall be reported to NVLAP within

30 calendar days of such change.

13
EQUIPMENT AND FACILITIES

A laboratory must have adequate equipment to perform the type(s) of testing for

which capability is claimed. This includes the space needed to perform the

testing, environmental controls, suitable testing equipment, appropriate safety

systems and either properly calibrated laboratory standards or access to the

services of a competent calibration laboratory.

EQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE AND CALIBRATION

All equipment used in the testing of the carpet and to perform quality control

must be properly maintained so that it can accomplish the required

measurements.

Measurement or quality control equipment that is inherently subject to change

due to use or passage of time must be periodically calibrated. Calibration

means comparison with a reference standard so that the performance of a measuring instrument may be determined with sufficient accuracy.

Calibrations of equipment may be performed by the laboratory or by an external

calibration service. All calibrations and characterizations must be done

against reference standards that are traceable to national standards maintained

by NBS or by an equivalent foreign national standards authority. To be

traceable means the ability to show that appropriate documented actions were

taken to compare (either directly or indirectly) a reference standard with a national standard.

The reference standards used and the environmental conditions at the time of

calibration must be documented for all calibrations. Calibration records and

evidence of the traceability of the reference standards used must be made

available for inspection during the on-site visit.

Testing equipment or verification records should include the following:

equipment name or description; model, style, or serial number; manufacturer;

notation of all equipment variables requiring verification; the range of

verification; the resolution of the instrument and its allowable error;

verification date and schedule; date and result of last calibration; identity

of the laboratory individual or external service responsible for calibration;

source of reference standard and traceability.

The equipment used for conducting the tests in the Carpet LAP must be

maintained and calibrated (or verified) in accordance with the manufacturer 's recommendation, as specified in the test method, or as specified below,

whichever frequency is greater.

14
Apparatus/Instrumentation

Calibration or Verification

Frequency

*Black panel thermometer unit annually

Wet/dry bulb thermometers annually

Drying ovens annually

Balances annually

Heat flux meters annually

Pyrometers annually

Tensile/compressive testing machines annually

(load cells)

Dimensional measurement devices annually

(calipers, micrometers, etc.)

Comp ressometer annually

*Xenon arc lamp semi-annually

*Carbon arc lamp semi-annually

Ammeters, ohmmeters, voltmeters, wattmeters semi-annually

*Electrostatic detection equipment semi-annually

*More frequent verification may be required, depending on use - follow

manufacturer's recommendations.

RECORDKEEPING

A laboratory must maintain a functional recordkeeping system. This means that

records must be easily accessible, in some logical order and contain complete

information on the subject. Records covering the following items are required

and will be reviewed during the on-site visit either in total or by selected

sampling:

- Staff training dates and results;

- Staff competency review dates and results;

- Testing equipment calibration and maintenance;

- Results of incoming inspection of materials;

- Comprehensive logs of test activities;

- Results of internal and external equipment checks, measurement assurance

programs, quality audits, etc.;

- Test data and reports; and

- Tracking and logging of samples tested.

Sample tracking and logging records should trace the movement of each sample

through the testing facility from its receipt through all the tests performed

to the final test report. Dates, times, condition of item and personnel

involved should all be included.

15
FINAL REPORT

The final report to the client must include:

- Name and address of laboratory;

- Pertinent dates and identifying numbers;

- Client name;

- Description or identification of each sample;

- Identification of the test method, procedures, or specifications;

- Identification of known deviations, additions to, or exclusions from the

test method;

- Measurements, examinations, or derived results, and identification of

test anomalies;

- A statement, if necessary, as to whether or not the test results comply

with the requirements of product or project specifications;

- Signature of person having technical responsibility for the test report;

and

- All other items required by the test method.

Records of these reports must be maintained for at least three years.

V. PROFICIENCY TESTING

Proficiency testing is an integral requirement of the NYLAP evaluation process.

NBS either conducts the proficiency testing program for the LAP or determines

if a collaborative reference program or round-robin testing program exists

which can meet the testing requirements for the LAP. The test methods

requiring proficiency testing for the Carpet LAP are shown with an asterisk in

the list of test methods in the Appendix.

Twice annually each laboratory is sent test samples, data sheets, and an information package containing instructions for specimen preparation,

conditioning, mounting, and testing. Although it is generally required that the

test be conducted in accordance with the applicable test method, the number of

replicate measurements, special conditions of temperature and humidity, and

other parameters are sometimes specified to ensure uniformity in procedures and

test conditions among participants. Completed data sheets must be returned to

NBS for analysis by the date specified on the sheets.

16
APPENDICES

NVLAP Accreditation Criteria

NVLAP Lab Bulletin No. 3A

Test Method List

NVLAP Accreditation Criteria

SUBPART D - CONDITIONS AND CRITERIA FOR ACCREDITATION

Sec. 7.31 Application of accreditation conditions and criteria .

(a) To become accredited and maintain accreditation, a laboratory must meet the

conditions for accreditation set out in Section 7.32 and the criteria set out

in Section 7.33 as tailored for specific LAPs.

(b) The conditions leading to accreditation include acceptance of the

responsibilities of an accredited laboratory and requirements for information

disclosure.

(c) The criteria are tailored and interpreted for the test methods, types of

test methods, products, services or standards of the relevant LAP. These

tailored criteria are the technical requirements for accreditation developed

through the procedures of Section 7.15.

(d) In applying the conditions, criteria, and technical requirements for

accreditation, the Director of OPSP shall not:

(1) Prohibit accreditation solely on the basis of a laboratory's

affiliation or nonaffiliation with manufacturing, distributing, or vending organizations, or because the laboratory is a foreign firm; or

(2) Develop, modify, or promulgate test methods, standards, or comparable

administrative rules.

Sec. 7.32 Conditions for accreditation .

(a) To become accredited and maintain accreditation, a laboratory shall agree

in writing to:

(1) Be assessed and evaluated initially and on a periodic basis;

(2) Demonstrate, on request, that it is able to perform the tests

representative of those for which it is seeking accreditation;

(3) Pay all relevant fees;

(4) Participate in proficiency testing as required.

(5) Be capable of performing the tests for which it is accredited according

to the latest version of the test method within one year after its

publication or within another time limit specified by the Director of

OPSP;

(6) Limit the representation of the scope of its accreditation to only

those tests or services for which accreditation is granted;

(7) Limit all its test work or services for clients to those areas where

competence and capacity are available;

(8) Limit advertising of its accredited status to letterheads, brochures,

test reports, and professional, technical, trade, or other laboratory

services publications, and use the NVLAP logo under guidance provided

by the Director of OPSP;

(9) Inform its clients that the laboratory's accreditation or any of its

test reports in no way constitutes or implies product certification,

approval, or endorsement by NBS;

(10)

Maintain records of all actions taken in response to testing complaints

for a minimum of one year;
(11) Maintain an independent decisional relationship between itself and its

clients, affiliates, or other organizations so that the laboratory's

capacity to render test reports objectively and without bias is not

adversely affected;

(12) Report to the Director of OPSP within 30 days any major changes

involving the location, ownership, management structure, authorized

representative, approved signatories, or facilities of the laboratory;

and

(13) Return to the Director of OPSP the certificate of accreditation for

possible revision or other action should it:

(i) be requested to do so by the Director of OPSP;

(ii) voluntarily terminate its accredited status; or

(iii) become unable to conform to any of these conditions or the

applicable criteria of Section 7.33 and related technical

requirements.

(b) To become accredited and maintain accreditation, a laboratory shall supply,

upon request, the following information:

(1) Legal name and full address;

(2) Ownership of the laboratory;

(3) Organization chart defining relationships that are relevant to

performing testing covered in the accreditation request;

(4) General description of the laboratory, including its facilities and

scope of operation;

(5) Name and telephone number of the authorized representative of the

laboratory;

(6) Names or titles and qualifications of laboratory staff nominated to serve as approved signatories of test reports that reference NVLAP

accreditation; and

(7) Other information as may be needed for the specific LAP(s) in which

accreditation is sought.

Sec. 7.33 Criteria for accreditation .

(a) Quality System . (1) The laboratory shall operate under an internal quality

assurance program appropriate to the type, range, and volume of work

performed. The quality assurance program must be designed to ensure the

required degree of accuracy and precision of the laboratory's work and

should include key elements of document control, sample control, data

validation, and corrective action. The quality assurance program must be

documented in a quality manual or equivalent (e.g., operations notebook)

which is available for use by laboratory staff. A person(s) must be

identified as having responsibility for maintaining the quality manual.

(2) The quality manual must include as appropriate:

(i) The laboratory's quality assurance policies including procedures for

corrective action for detected test discrepancies;

(ii) Quality assurance responsibilities for each function of the laboratory;

(iii) Specific quality assurance practices and procedures for each test, type

of test, or other specifically delineated function performed;

( i v

)

Specific procedures for retesting, control charts, reference materials,

and interlaboratory tests; and

(v) Procedures for dealing with testing complaints.

(3) The laboratory shall periodically review its quality assurance system by or

on behalf of management to ensure it's continued effectiveness. These

reviews must be recorded with details of any corrective action taken.

2
(b) Staff . (1) The laboratory shall:

Ti) Be staffed by individuals having the necessary education, training,

technical knowledge, and experience for their assigned functions; and

(ii) Have a job description for each professional, scientific, supervisory

and technical position, including the necessary education, training,

technical knowledge, and experience.

(2) The laboratory shall document the test methods each staff member has been

assigned to perform.

(3) The laboratory shall have a description of its training program for

ensuring that new or untrained staff are able to perform tests properly and

uniformly to the requisite degree of precision and accuracy.

(4) The laboratory shall be organized:

(i) So that staff members are not subjected to undue pressure or inducement

that might influence their judgment or results of their work; and

(ii) In such a way that staff members are aware of both the extent and the

limitation of their area of responsibility.

(5) The laboratory shall have a technical manager (or similar title) who has

overall responsibility for the technical operations of the laboratory.

(6) The laboratory shall have one or more signatories approved by the Director

of OPSP to sign test reports that reference NVLAP accreditation. Approved

signatories shall:

(i) Be competent to make a critical evaluation of test results; and

(ii) Occupy positions within the laboratory's organization which makes them

responsible for the adequacy of test results.

(c) Facilities and Equipment . (1) The laboratory shall be furnished with all

items of equipment and facilities for the correct performance of the tests

and measurements for which accreditation is granted and shall have adequate

space, lighting, and environmental control, and monitoring to ensure compliance with prescribed testing conditions.

(2) All equipment must be properly maintained to ensure protection from

corrosion and other causes of deterioration. Instructions for a proper

maintenance procedure for those items of equipment which require periodic

maintenance must be available. Any item of equipment or component thereof

which has been subjected to overloading or mishandling, gives suspect

results, or has been shown by calibration or otherwise to be defective,

must be taken out of service and clearly labelled until it has been

repaired. When placed back in service, this equipment must be shown by

test or calibration to be performing its function satisfactorily.

(3) Records of each major item of equipment must be maintained. Each record

must include:

(i) The name of the item of equipment;

(ii) The manufacturer's name and type, identification and serial number;

(iii) Date received and date placed in service;

( i v

)

Current location, where appropriate;

(v) Details of maintenance; and

( vi

)

Date of last calibration, next calibration due date, and calibration

report references.

3
(d) Calibration . The laboratory shall:

(1) Calibrate new testing equipment before putting it into service;

(2) Recalibrate, at regular intervals, in-service testing equipment with

the calibration status readily available to the operator;

(3) Perform checks of in-service testing equipment between the regular

calibration intervals, where relevant;

(4) Maintain adequate records of all calibrations and recalibrations; and

(5) Provide traceability of all calibrations and reference standards of

measurement where these standards exist. Where traceability of

measurements to primary (national or international) standards is not

applicable, the laboratory shall provide satisfactory evidence of the

accuracy or reliability of test results (e.g., by participation in a suitable program of interlaboratory comparison).

(e) Test Methods and Procedures . The laboratory shall:

(1) Conform in all respects with the test methods and procedures required

by the specifications against which the test item is to be tested,

except that whenever a departure becomes necessary for technical reasons the departure must be acceptable to the client and recorded in

the test report;

(2) Have data to prove that any departures from standard methods and/or

procedures due to apparatus design or for other reasons do not detract

from the expected or required precision of the measurement;

(3) Maintain a test plan for implementing testing standards and procedures

including adequate instructions on the use and operation of all

relevant equipment, on the handling and preparation of test items

(where applicable), and on standard testing techniques where the

absence of such instructions could compromise the test. All

instructions, testing standards, specifications, manuals, and reference

data relevant to the work of the laboratory must be kept up-to-date and

made readily available to the staff;

(4) Maintain measures for the detection and resolution of in-process

testing discrepancies for manual and automatic test equipment and

electronic data processing equipment, where applicable;

(5) Maintain a system for identifying samples or items to be tested, which

remains in force from the date of receipt of the item to the date of

its disposal, either through documents or through marking to ensure

that there is no confusion regarding the identity of the samples or test items and the results of the measurements made; and

(6) Maintain rules for the receipt, retention, and disposal of test items,

including procedures for storage and handling precautions to prevent

damage to test items which could invalidate the test results. Any

relevant instructions provided with the tested item must be observed.

(f) Records . The laboratory shall:

(1) Maintain a record system which contains sufficient information to

permit verification of any issued report;

(2) Retain all original observations, calculations and derived data, and

calibration records for one year unless a longer period is specified;

and

(3) Hold records secure and in confidence, as required.

4
(g) Test Reports . (1) The laboratory shall issue test reports of its work

which accurately, clearly, and unambiguously present the specified test

results and all required information. Each test report must include the

following information as applicable:

(i) Name and address of the laboratory;

(ii) Identification of the test report by serial number, date, or other

appropriate means;

(iii) Name and address of client;

( i v

)

Description and identification of the test specimen, sample, or lot of material represented;

(v) Identification of the test specification, method, or procedure

used;

(vi) Description of sampling procedure, if appropriate;

(vii) Any deviations, additions to, or exclusions from the test

specifications;

(viii) Measurements, examinations, and derived results supported by

tables, graphs, sketches, and photographs, as appropriate, and any

failures identified;

( ix

)

A statement of measurement uncertainty where relevant;

(x) Identification of the organization and the person accepting

technical responsibility for the test report and date of issue;

(xi) A statement that the report must not be reproduced except in full

with the approval of the laboratory; and

(xii) A statement to. the effect that the test report relates only to the

items tested.

(2) The laboratory shall issue corrections or additions to a test report only

by a further document suitably marked, e.g. "Supplement to test report

serial number ," which meets the relevant requirements of Section

7.33(g)(1).

(3) The laboratory shall retain a copy of each test report issued for one year

unless a longer period is specified by the Director of OPSP.

(4) The laboratory shall ensure that all test reports endorsed with the NYLAP

logo are signed by an approved signatory.

5

National Voluntary

Laboratory Accreditation

r Program

KTWMs>

U S Department of Commerce

in cooperation with the

National Bureau of Standards Bulletin

Lab Bulletin No. 3A January 1, 1985

INFORMING THE PUBLIC OF YOUR ACCREDITATION STATUS

Summary

This Bulletin supersedes NVLAP Lab Bulletin No. 3 dated October 1, 1981. It

reflects significant changes made to the NVLAP procedures (Title 15, Part 7, of

the Code of Federal Regulations) which became effective on December 10, 1984.

The Bulletin is addressed primarily to personnel at accredited laboratories who

are responsible for communicating the laboratory's accreditation status to

clients and the public, through advertising, issuance of test reports, use of

the NVLAP logo, etc.

The Bulletin's purpose is to "provide guidance on referencing the laboratory's

accredited status, and use of the NVLAP logo by the laboratory and its

clients," in accordance with provisions of the NVLAP Procedures.

Background

NVLAP was established to assist industry and government in identifying

competent testing laboratories. NVLAP accreditation means that a laboratory is

competent to perform specific test methods in selected fields of testing. The

NVLAP Procedures are the bases upon which the entire program operates and

accomplishes accreditation of laboratories. Parts A and B of the Procedures

provide general information and the method by which a new Laboratory

Accreditation Program (LAP), in a new field of testing, may be requested and

established. Parts C and D of the Procedures , of more concern to accredited

laboratories, describe how a laboratory becomes accredited and the conditions

and criteria for initial and continued accreditation. This Bulletin is

concerned principally with issues in Part D of the Procedures.
Lab Bulletin No. 3A

Page 2 January l s 1985

Requirements and Guidance

To become accredited and maintain accreditation a laboratory shall:

limit the representation of the scope of its accreditation to only those

tests or services for which accreditation is granted

A laboratory accredited by NVLAP may use the following statement on its

letterheads and in trade or other publications: "Accredited by the National

Bureau of Standards, National Voluntary Laboratory Accreditation Program for

selected test methods for --(identify product or service area(s))." This

statement could, for example, be placed at the bottom of the laboratory

letterhead.

A laboratory's letterhead containing a reference to its NVLAP accreditation may

be used in any direct solicitation for business from potential customers. It is

recommended that a copy of the NVLAP Certificate and Scope of Accreditation be

appended to such a solicitation.

To become accredited and maintain accreditation a laboratory shall:

limit advertising of its accredited status to letterheads, brochures,

test reports, and professional, technical, trade, or other laboratory

services publications, and use the NVLAP logo under guidance provided by

NBS

A statement about NVLAP accreditation and the NVLAP logo may be used on reports

and data sheets containing test data obtained by a laboratory provided the

tests or services are performed in accordance with the terms of its

accreditation. The NVLAP logo may not be used on test reports or data sheets

during any period of suspended or expired accreditation or after voluntary or involuntary termination of accreditation.

The nature or type of product advertising prohibited by NVLAP procedures

includes any advertising that is intended to encourage a consumer to purchase a product because it was tested by an accredited laboratory, whether that

advertising appears in consumer media, the business media, or at a point of

sale to consumers.

News stories and advertising by laboratories of their accredited status in the

trade press is not only permissible but encouraged. The use of advertisements

in the trade press is consistent with NVLAP procedures.

The "consumer media" to be avoided include popular periodicals such as Time,

Good Housekeeping, etc., and newspapers such as the Washington Post or the New

York Times. The term "consumer media" does not include business publications

such as Barron's, or the Wall Street Journal which are oriented to the business

comnunity and in which products per se normally are not advertised.
Lab Bulletin No. 3A

Page 3

January 1, 1985

To become accredited and maintain accreditation a laboratory shall:

inform its clients that the laboratory's accreditation or any of its test

reports in no way constitutes or implies product certification,

approval, or endorsement by NBS

Laboratory accreditation by NBS confers recognition that a laboratory has been

found competent to perform specific test methods or services in a selected

field(s) of testing. Laboratories must avoid all inference that accreditation

under NVLAP carries with it an endorsement, approval, or recommendation of the

products tested by the laboratories.

To become accredited and maintain accreditation a laboratory shall:

assure that all test reports endorsed with the NVLAP logo are signed by

an approved signatory

An approved signatory is an officer or employee of the laboratory, identified

by name or position, who has been accepted by NVLAP as being responsible for

the issuance of test reports under this condition of NVLAP accreditation. A

laboratory seeking initial accreditation or reaccreditation must specify (a) one or more individuals, or (b) position(s) within the organization for which

it requests acceptance as an approved signatory.

Computer or machine generated test reports that contain the NVLAP logo need not

be signed but must have the printed name of the approved signatory.

Questions About Accreditation

If you have questions about what is an acceptable method of advertising in areas not specifically covered in this Lab Bulletin or about the propriety or acceptability of a particular statement, advertising media, or use of

information about your NVLAP accreditation status, please contact NVLAP before

your publicity program is implemented.

Call 301-921-3431 or

Send your questions to:

Harvey W. Berger

Associate Manager, Laboratory Accreditation

National Bureau of Standards

ADMIN A531

Gaithersburg, MD 20899

CARPET LAP TEST METHODS

NVLAP Test Test Method

Method Code Designation

r 03/C01 AATCC 16E

03/C02 AATCC 8

r 03/D01 ASTM D418

03/D02 DDD-C-95A

03/S01 ASTM D1335

Federal Test Method

191-5100

191-5950

03/E01 AATCC 134/CRI 102

03/F01 ASTM E84

03/F02 UL 992

03/F03 16 CFR Part 1630

(FF 1-70)

Sec. 1630.4

03/F04 ASTM E648

03/B01 UM 44C Addendum 3

03/B02 UM 44C Addenda 2 an

Test Method

Short Title

Colorfastness to Light (Xenon Arc)

Colorfastness to Crocking

Pile Yarn Floor Covering Construction

Pile Weight - Uncoated

(Section 8)

Pile Weight - Coated

(Section 9)

Pile Thickness - (Sections 10 & 11)

Tuft Height - (Section

13)

Shrinkage

Tuft Bind of Floor Coverings

Standard:

-Breaking Strength

-Del ami nation

Electrostatic Propensity of Carpets

Surface Flammability

Surface Flammability

Surface Flammability

Test Procedure

Radiant Panel

Attached Cushion Tests

I 3 Attached Cushion Tests

* Test methods requiring proficiency testing for the Carpet LAP
N8S-II4A irev. 2-ac) U.S. DEPT. OF COMM.

BIBLIOGRAPHIC DATA

SHEET (See instructions)

1. PUBLICATION OR

REPORT NCL

NBSIR-85/3198

2» Performing Organ. Report No. 3. Publication Date July 1985

4. TITLE AND SUBTITLE

Carpet LAP Handbook:.

Operational and Technical Requirements for the Laboratory Accreditation

Program for Carpet

5. AUTHOR(S)

Wiley Ac Hall, Jr. s Robert L 0 Gladhill, Jeffrey Horlick, Harvey W. Berger

6. PERFORMING ORGANIZATION (If joint or other than NBSs see instructions)

NATIONAL BUREAU OF STANDARDS

DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE

Gaithersburg, MD 20899

7c Contract/Grant No.

8. Type of Report & Period Covered

9. SPONSORING ORGANIZATION NAME AND COMPLETE ADDRESS (Street. City. State, ZIP)

10. SUPPLEMENTARY NOTES

f~~| Document describes a computer program; SF-185, FIPS Software Summary, is attached.

11. ABSTRACT (A 200-word or less factual summary of most significant information. If document includes a significant

bibliography or literature survey , mention it here)

This document explains the operational and technical requirements of the

Laboratory Accreditation Program (LAP) for Carpet (Carpet LAP). All of the

steps leading to accreditation are discussed. Technical requirements are explained indicating how the NVLAP criteria are applied.

It is intended for use by staff of accredited laboratories, those seeking

accreditation, other laboratory accreditation systems, and others needing

information on the requirements for NVLAP accreditation under this LAP.

12. KEY WORDS (Six to twelve entries; alphabetical order; capitalize only proper names; and separate key words by semicolon s) accreditation; assessment; carpet; laboratory; proficiency testing

13. AVAILABILITY

| x I Unlimited

| | For Official Distribution. Do Not Release to NTIS

H Order From Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.

| X 1 Order From National Technical Information Service (NTIS), Springfield, VA. 22161

14. NO. OF

PRINTED PAGES

30

15. Price

$ 8.50

USCOMM-0^04^80