NISTHB 150-10 

NVLAP 

Efficiency of 

Electric Motors 

Timothy Rasinski 

http://dx.doi.org/10.6028/NIST.HB.150-10 
This page is intentionally left blank. 
 

 

NISTHB 150-10 

NVLAP 

Efficiency of 

Electric Motors 

Timothy Rasinski 

National Voluntary Laboratory Accreditation Program 

Standards Coordination Office 

Laboratory Programs 

http://dx.doi.org/10.6028/NIST.HB.150-10 

May 2013 

U.S. Department of Commerce 

Rebecca Blank, Acting Secretary 

National Institute of Standards and Technology 

Patrick D. Gallagher, Under Secretary of Commerce for Standards and Technology and Director 
 

NVLAP AND THE NVLAP LOGO 

The term NVLAP and the NVLAP logo are registered 

marks of the Federal Government, which retains 

exclusive rights to control the use thereof. Permission 

to use the term and symbol (NVLAP logo with 

approved caption) is granted to NVLAP-accredited 

laboratories for the limited purpose of announcing 

their accredited status, and for use on reports that 

describe only testing and calibration within the scope 

of accreditation. NVLAP reserves the right to control 

the quality of the use of the NVLAP term, logo, and 

symbol. 
Contents 

Foreword....................................................................................................................................................... v
 

Introduction.................................................................................................................................................. vi
 

1 General information .............................................................................................................................. 1
 

1.1 Scope ........................................................................................................................................... 1
 

1.2 Organization of handbook ........................................................................................................... 1
 

1.3 Program description ..................................................................................................................... 1
 

1.4 References ................................................................................................................................... 3
 

1.5 Terms and definitions .................................................................................................................. 3
 

1.6 Program documentation ............................................................................................................... 4
 

2 LAP establishment, development, and implementation ........................................................................ 5
 

3 Accreditation process ............................................................................................................................ 5
 

3.1 General ........................................................................................................................................ 5
 

3.2 Management system review ........................................................................................................ 5
 

3.3 On-site assessment ....................................................................................................................... 5
 

3.4 Proficiency testing ....................................................................................................................... 7
 

4 Management requirements for accreditation ......................................................................................... 8
 

4.1 Organization ................................................................................................................................ 8
 

4.2 Management system .................................................................................................................... 8
 

4.3 Document control ........................................................................................................................ 9
 

4.4 Review of requests, tenders and contracts................................................................................... 9
 

4.5 Subcontracting of tests and calibrations ......................................................................................9
 

4.6 Purchasing services and supplies................................................................................................. 9
 

4.7 Service to the customer................................................................................................................ 9
 

4.8 Complaints ................................................................................................................................... 9
 

4.9 Control of nonconforming testing and/or calibration work ......................................................... 9
 

4.10 Improvement .............................................................................................................................. 10
 

4.11 Corrective action ....................................................................................................................... 10
 

4.12 Preventive action ....................................................................................................................... 10
 

4.13 Control of records ...................................................................................................................... 10
 

4.14 Internal audits ............................................................................................................................ 10
 

4.15 Management reviews ................................................................................................................. 11
 

5 Technical requirements for accreditation ............................................................................................ 11
 

5.1 General ...................................................................................................................................... 11
 

5.2 Personnel ................................................................................................................................... 11
 

5.3 Accommodation and environmental conditions ........................................................................ 12
 

5.4 Test and calibration methods and method validation ................................................................ 12
 

5.5 Equipment .................................................................................................................................. 13
 

5.6 Measurement traceability .......................................................................................................... 13
 

5.7 Sampling .................................................................................................................................... 14
 

5.8 Handling of test and calibration items ....................................................................................... 14
 

5.9 Assuring the quality of test and calibration results .................................................................... 14
 

NIST Handbook 150-10:2013 iii 
6 

5.10 Reporting the results .................................................................................................................. 14
 

Additional requirements ...................................................................................................................... 16
 

iv NIST Handbook 150-10:2013 
Foreword 

The NIST Handbook 150 publication series sets forth the procedures, requirements, and guidance for the 

accreditation of testing and calibration laboratories by the National Voluntary Laboratory Accreditation 

Program (NVLAP). The series is comprised of the following publications: 

	 NIST Handbook 150, NVLAP Procedures and General Requirements, which contains the general 

procedures and requirements under which NVLAP operates as an unbiased third-party accreditation 

body; 

	 NIST Handbook 150-xx program-specific handbooks, which supplement NIST Handbook 150 by 

providing additional requirements, guidance, and interpretive information applicable to specific 

NVLAP laboratory accreditation programs (LAPs). 

The program-specific handbooks are not stand-alone documents; they are companion documents to NIST 

Handbook 150. They tailor the general criteria found in NIST Handbook 150 to the specific tests, 

calibrations, or types of tests or calibrations covered by a LAP. 

NIST Handbook 150-10, NVLAP Efficiency of Electric Motors, presents the technical requirements and 

guidance for the accreditation of laboratories under the NVLAP Efficiency of Electric Motors LAP. The 

2013 edition of NIST Handbook 150-10 supersedes and replaces the 2007 edition. 

The handbook was revised with the participation of technical experts in the field of efficiency of electric 

motors testing and was approved by NVLAP. The following main changes have been made to this 

handbook with respect to the previous edition: 

	 all references to applicable international guides, national and international standards, and U.S. 

regulations have been updated; 

	 updated federal regulations that cover requirements for determining the efficiency of polyphase 

electric motors and small electric motors have been included. 

This handbook is also available on the NVLAP website: http://www.nist.gov/nvlap. 

Questions or comments concerning this handbook should be submitted to NVLAP, National Institute of 

Standards and Technology, 100 Bureau Drive, Stop 2140, Gaithersburg, MD, 20899-2140; phone: 

301-975-4016; fax: 301-926-2884; e-mail: nvlap@nist.gov. 

NIST Handbook 150-10:2013 v 
 

Introduction 

As part of broader energy conservation issues, the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (Public Law 

94-163) was passed in 1975 in response to the oil crisis of the early 1970s. It has been amended several 

times, most notably in 1992 by the Energy Policy Act (EPAct) (Public Law 102-486). The Energy 

Conservation Program for Consumer Products other than Automobiles was added and includes energy 

efficiency test procedures and standards for various industrial equipment and, in particular, certain 

electric motors. The Energy Policy and Conservation Act (EPCA), as amended by EPAct, establishes 

definitions, test procedures, labeling provisions, energy efficiency standards, and compliance certification 

requirements for electric motors. 

Section 345(c) of EPCA (42 U.S.C. 6316(c)) requires electric motor “manufacturers to certify, through an 

independent testing or certification program nationally recognized in the United States, that such motor 

meets the applicable [nominal full-load efficiency standard].” 

Section 431.36(a) of Title 10, Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 431 (10 CFR Part 431), provides 

two equivalent ways to fulfill the compliance certification requirements under section 345(c) of EPCA: 

(1) A manufacturer may certify, through an independent, accredited testing laboratory, that a 

covered motor meets the standard; or 

(2) A manufacturer may certify, through an independent certification program nationally 

recognized in the United States, that a covered motor meets the standard. 

The procedures by which a manufacturer may certify the energy efficiency of its electric motors, either 

through a certification program or an accredited testing program, are set forth in section 431.17 of 

10 CFR Part 431, and in particular, subsections 431.17(a)(5) and (b). 

The Efficiency of Electric Motors (EEM) laboratory accreditation program was originally developed at 

the request of the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) to assist the electric motor 

industry in complying with the statutory requirements for electric motors. NVLAP coordinated the 

development of the EEM program with NEMA and the Department of Energy (DOE). 

Accreditation under NVLAP for the efficiency of electric motors fulfills the applicable requirements of 10 

CFR Part 431 for accreditation as an independent testing program nationally recognized in the United 

States. (See section 431.18 of 10 CFR Part 431.) The names and contact information for NVLAPaccredited laboratories are published on the NVLAP website: http://www.nist.gov/nvlap. 

The author gratefully acknowledges the important contributions of the following: regulatory and technical 

input and review by Jim Raba of DOE; technical input and review by Vern Nielsen of Nielsen 

Engineering, Inc.; and editing by Vanda White of NVLAP. 

vi NIST Handbook 150-10:2013 
1 General information 

1.1 Scope 

1.1.1 NIST Handbook 150-10 establishes the technical requirements and provides guidance for the 

accreditation of laboratories under the NVLAP Efficiency of Electric Motors Laboratory Accreditation 

Program (EEM LAP). It supplements the NVLAP procedures and general requirements found in NIST 

Handbook 150, NVLAP Procedures and General Requirements, by tailoring the general criteria found in 

NIST Handbook 150 to the specific tests and types of tests covered by the EEM LAP. 

1.1.2 NIST Handbook 150, NIST Handbook 150-10, and their respective checklists (see 1.6) constitute 

the collective body of requirements that must be met by a laboratory seeking NVLAP accreditation for the 

EEM LAP. 

1.1.3 This handbook is intended for information and use by accredited EEM laboratories, assessors 

conducting on-site assessments, laboratories seeking accreditation, other laboratory accreditation systems, 

users of laboratory services, and others needing information on the requirements for accreditation under 

the EEM LAP. 

1.2 Organization of handbook 

The numbering and titles of the first five clauses of this handbook match those of NIST Handbook 150. 

The primary subclauses in clauses 4 and 5 (e.g., 4.1, 4.2, etc.) are also numbered and titled to correspond 

with those of NIST Handbook 150, even when there are no requirements additional to those in NIST 

Handbook 150. 

1.3 Program description 

1.3.1 Statutory and regulatory requirements 

Before the enactment of the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 (EISA 2007), section 

340(13)(A) of EPCA defined electric motor as any motor that is “general purpose T-frame, single speed, 

foot-mounting, polyphase squirrel-cage induction of the National Electrical Manufacturers Association 

(NEMA) Designs A and B, continuous-rated, operating on 230/460 volts and constant 60 hertz line 

power, as defined in NEMA Standards Publication MG1-1987.” Section 342(b)(1) of EPCA then 

prescribes efficiency standards for electric motors that are 0.75 kW (1 hp) to 150 kW (200 hp) and 

manufactured (alone or as a component of another piece of equipment), except for definite purpose 

motors, special purpose motors, and those motors exempted by the Secretary of Energy. Further, section 

343(a)(5)(A) of EPCA required that the testing procedures for motor efficiency shall be the test 

procedures specified in NEMA Standards Publication MG1-1987, and the Institute of Electrical and 

Electronics Engineers, Inc. (IEEE) Standard 112, Test Method B for motor efficiency, as in effect on 

October 24, 1992. 

The Energy Policy Act of 1992 authorizes the Secretary of Energy to amend both the procedures used for 

the determination of efficiency and the performance standards that apply to regulated electric motors. An 

energy conservation standard may be amended by the Secretary of Energy by publishing the rule in the 

Federal Register. The most notable amendments follow the enactment of EISA 2007 and include 

NIST Handbook 150-10:2013 1 
 

 

 

extending the range of electric motor sizes and types covered by regulation from the original 0.75 kW 

(1 hp) to 150 kW (200 hp) up to 375 kW (500 hp) and updating the test standards used in the 

determination of electric motor efficiency. 

Pursuant to EISA 2007, DOE adopted new definitions in place of the original EPCA general purpose 

motor. The term general purpose electric motor (subtype I) covers motors subject to minimum efficiency 

standards since 1999. DOE also adopted a definition of general purpose electric motor (subtype II) as 

one that incorporates the design elements of a subtype I motor, but is configured as one of the following: 

1.	 a U-frame motor 

2.	 a design C motor 

3.	 a close-coupled pump motor 

4.	 a footless motor 

5.	 a vertical solid shaft normal thrust motor (as tested in a horizontal configuration) 

6.	 an 8-pole motor 

7.	 a polyphase motor with rated voltage of not more than 600 volts (other than 230 volts or 

460 volts). 

The minimum efficiency standard for general purpose motors of subtype II is slightly lower than the 

minimum standards for motors of subtype I. 

EPACT also requires DOE to prescribe energy conservation standards for those “small electric motors” 

for which DOE has determined that standards would be technologically feasible and economically 

justified and would result in significant energy savings and for which there are prescribed test procedures. 

On March 9, 2010, DOE published a final rule in the Federal Register, “Energy Conservation Standards 

for Small Electric Motors; Final Rule” (10 CFR Part 431). This rule, together with the subsequent DOE 

ruling published in the Federal Register on May 4, 2012, “Energy Conservation Program: Test 

Procedures for Electric Motors and Small Electric Motors; Final Rule” (10 CFR Part 431) updates all the 

prescribed test methods for determination of efficiency for both motor types (see references in 1.4). 

These rules also specify performance standards and define the terms electric motor and small electric 

motor. 

1.3.2 Scope of Efficiency of Electric Motors LAP 

1.3.2.1 The NVLAP EEM LAP provides for laboratory accreditation to ensure that a testing laboratory is 

competent to test a motor for energy efficiency and, in particular, for a motor that is covered under 

10 CFR Part 431.25, provide adequate assurance of compliance with EPCA and EISA 2007 energy 

efficiency requirements. (The EEM LAP is not restricted only to motors that are covered under Federal 

regulations.) 

1.3.2.2 For purposes of accreditation the test and calculation procedures used to determine the efficiency 

of a small electric motor or a polyphase electric motor shall be the test standards specified in Federal 

Register, Vol. 77, No. 87 (May 4, 2012). 

1.3.2.3 The power range for testing polyphase electric motors in accordance with IEEE 112-2004, 

Method B or CSA C390-10, Test Method (1) or small electric motors with standards IEEE 114-2010 or 

CSA C747-09 is not limited to the 0.18 kW (0.25 hp) to 375 kW (500 hp) range provision of EPCA and 

EISA. Some laboratories seeking NVLAP accreditation consistent with the applicable provisions in 10 

CFR Part 431 may have the capability to test a motor rated above 375 kW (500 hp). Consequently, the 

scope of the EEM program covers the entire range of motors that can be tested competently within the 

2 NIST Handbook 150-10:2013 
 

 

limits of IEEE 112-2004, Test Method B and CSA C390-10, Test Method (1) or IEEE 114-2010 and CSA 

C747-09. 

1.3.2.4 Testing for safety performance of an electric motor is outside the scope of the accreditation 

program. 

1.4 References 

The following documents are referenced in this handbook. If no date is given in the reference, then the 

latest edition applies within one year of publication or within another time limit specified by regulations 

or other requirement documents. 

— ASTM E178, Standard Practice for Dealing with Outlying Observations 

— CSA International Standard C390-10, Test methods, marking requirements, and energy efficiency 

levels for three-phase induction motors 

— CSA International Standard C747-09, Energy Efficiency Test Methods for Small Motors 

— “Energy Conservation Program: Test Procedures for Electric Motors and Small Electric Motors; Final 

Rule,” Federal Register 77:87 (4 May 2012), pp. 26608-26640 (to be codified at 10 CFR Part 431) 

— “Energy Conservation Standards for Small Electric Motors; Final Rule,” Federal Register 75:45 

(9 March 2010), pp. 10874-10948 (codified at 10 CFR Part 431) 

— IEEE Standard 112-2004, Test Procedure for Polyphase Induction Motors and Generators 

— IEEE Standard 114-2010, Test Procedure for Single-Phase Induction Motors 

— National Electrical Manufacturers Association, NEMA Standards Publication MG1-2011, Motors and 

Generators 

— NIST Handbook 150, NVLAP Procedures and General Requirements 

1.5 Terms and definitions 

For the purposes of this handbook, the terms and definitions given in NIST Handbook 150 and section 

431.12 of 10 CFR Part 431 apply. 

1.5.1 

polyphase electric motor 

The term polyphase electric motor refers to polyphase induction motors with rated output of 1 hp to 

500 hp for which test standards IEEE 112-2004 method B and CSA C390-10 method 1 may be used to 

determine efficiency.1 

1

 It is NIST policy to employ the International System of Units (metric units) in all of its publications. However, in 

the North American electric motor industry, certain non-SI units are used, therefore measurement values using 

customary units are reported in this publication to avoid confusion. 

NIST Handbook 150-10:2013 3 
 

1.5.2 

small electric motor 

The term small electric motor refers to single-phase induction motors and polyphase induction motors 

1 hp or less. Efficiency of these motor types may be determined using IEEE 114-2010, CSA C747-09, or 

IEEE 112-2004 method A (for small polyphase motors with output 0.75 kW [1 hp] or less). 

1.6 Program documentation 

1.6.1 General 

Assessors use NVLAP checklists to ensure that each laboratory receives an assessment comparable to that 

received by others and to assure completeness, uniformity, and objectivity. Checklists assist assessors in 

documenting the assessment to the NVLAP requirements found in NIST Handbook 150, this handbook, 

and the checklists themselves. Checklists contain definitive statements or questions about all aspects of 

the NVLAP requirements for accreditation, and form part of the On-Site Assessment Report (see NIST 

Handbook 150). The current version of each checklist is available from the NVLAP website: 

http://www.nist.gov/nvlap. 

1.6.2 NIST Handbook 150 Checklist 

All NVLAP programs use the NIST Handbook 150 Checklist (formerly called the General Operations 

Checklist), which contains the requirements published in NIST Handbook 150. The checklist items are 

numbered to correspond to clauses 4 and 5 and annexes A and B of NIST Handbook 150. 

1.6.3 NIST Handbook 150-10 Checklist 

The NIST Handbook 150-10 Checklist (also referred to as the EEM Program-Specific Checklist) 

addresses requirements specific to efficiency of electric motors testing, including testing requirements, 

with an emphasis on observing and performing tests, testing accuracy, instrumentation, calibration, 

personnel competency, and test reporting. The checklist may contain requirements expressed at a more 

detailed level than found in this handbook. 

1.6.4 Test Method Review Summary 

The assessor uses the Test Method Review Summary to review the laboratory’s ability to perform the 

EEM test method. The review of the test method by the assessor ranges from observing tests to having 

laboratory staff describe the test procedures. The assessor notes on the Test Method Review Summary 

the depth to which each part of the test method was reviewed (Observed Test, Walked/Talked Through 

Test, Listened to Description of Procedures, Examined Apparatus). Since the EEM LAP is limited to 

efficiency testing of polyphase electric motors and small electric motors, the test method review is in 

depth. 

1.6.5 NVLAP Lab Bulletins 

NVLAP Lab Bulletins are issued to laboratories and assessors as needed to clarify program-specific 

requirements and to provide information about program additions and changes. 

4 NIST Handbook 150-10:2013 
2 LAP establishment, development, and implementation 

This clause contains no information additional to that provided in NIST Handbook 150, clause 2. 

3 Accreditation process 

3.1 General 

An overview of the laboratory accreditation process is provided in NIST Handbook 150, clause 3, and 

includes information pertaining to application for accreditation; on-site assessment; proficiency testing; 

accreditation decision; granting accreditation; renewal of accreditation; changes to scope of accreditation; 

monitoring visits; and suspension, denial, revocation, and voluntary termination of accreditation. 

3.2 Management system review 

3.2.1 Prior to applying to NVLAP for accreditation, a laboratory shall have a fully implemented 

management system. A copy of the management system documentation, including a cross-reference 

document, shall be sent to NVLAP with the application forms. This requirement applies to both applicant 

laboratories and laboratories already accredited by NVLAP (see 4.2.2). 

3.2.2 Prior to the on-site assessment, the assigned assessor reviews all relevant management system 

documentation for conformity with NVLAP requirements, including the requirements of this handbook 

and NIST Handbook 150. During this review, the assessor may request additional management system 

documents and/or records, which will be returned upon request. 

3.3 On-site assessment 

3.3.1 The purpose of the on-site assessment is to determine whether the laboratory is following its 

documented management system and to assess the competence of the laboratory’s delivery of its testing 

services. 

3.3.2 The on-site assessment will take place at the laboratory site. Prior to the visit, the NVLAP 

assessor provides a preliminary agenda, which may change due to findings observed during the on-site 

assessment. Efforts will be made to minimize disruption to the normal working routines during the 

assessment. The assessor will need time and workspace to complete assessment documentation during 

his/her time at the laboratory site. 

3.3.3 All laboratory equipment required to perform accredited testing shall be available for assessment 

and in good working order. The laboratory shall be prepared to demonstrate selected test methods as 

requested by the assessor. The assessment will cover the requirements identified in this handbook, NIST 

Handbook 150, the EEM Program-Specific Checklist, test methods as they appear on the scope (or 

proposed scope) of accreditation, the laboratory’s management system documentation, and the 

laboratory’s written detailed test instructions. 

3.3.4 The laboratory shall make available all supporting technical information in a format that is 

conducive to a detailed review. The assessor may request additional information to clarify issues 

NIST Handbook 150-10:2013 5 
 

regarding nonconformities or to delve more deeply into technical issues. For the EEM LAP, the test 

method review is in depth. 

3.3.5	 The activities covered during a typical on-site assessment are described below. 

a)	 Opening meeting: The NVLAP assessor will meet with laboratory management, supervisory 

personnel, and other appropriate staff members to explain the purpose of the on-site assessment 

and to discuss the schedule for the assessment activities. Information provided by the laboratory 

on its application form and the proposed scope of accreditation may be discussed during this 

meeting. 

b)	 Staff interviews: The assessor will ask the laboratory manager to assist in arranging times for 

individual interviews with laboratory staff members. The assessor will interview staff members 

filling key positions (e.g., laboratory manager, technical director, quality manager, authorized 

representative, approved signatories) and staff members who have an effect on the outcome of the 

testing, including staff who conduct the testing. The assessor does not need to talk to all staff 

members; however, the assessor will select staff members representing all aspects of the 

laboratory. These interviews are conducted to determine if the staff members are properly 

trained, assigned, and supervised, and are technically competent for the tasks assigned them. 

c) Records review: The assessor will review laboratory records, including management system 

records, equipment and maintenance records, laboratory test records and reports, personnel 

competency records, personnel training plans and records, and safeguards for the protection of 

sensitive and proprietary information. 

Laboratory staff shall be available to answer questions; however, the assessor may wish to review 

the documents and records alone. The assessor usually does not ask to remove any laboratory 

documents or records from the laboratory premises. 

d)	 Internal audit and management review: The assessor will review and discuss with laboratory 

staff the laboratory’s internal audit and management review activities, which are separate and 

distinct activities. The discussion will include all aspects of those activities including the 

management system procedures, the audit findings, the root cause determination, the actions 

taken to resolve problems identified, the actions taken to prevent recurrence, and the results of the 

management review. 

e)	 Equipment and software: The assessor will examine and determine the suitability of all 

equipment and facilities required to perform the standard test methods for which the laboratory is 

accredited (or is seeking accreditation). The appropriate environmental conditions required for 

testing will be assessed. The assessor will observe the demonstration of selected procedures by 

appropriate personnel assigned to conduct the tests, and will interview those personnel. The 

assessor will review test data, examine hardware and software for function and appropriateness, 

and review software validation and verification where applicable. 

f)	 Demonstrations: The demonstrations requested may be selective or all-inclusive. The assessor 

will observe the demonstration of testing procedures by technical personnel assigned to conduct 

testing, and will discuss testing with the technical personnel to assure their understanding of the 

procedures. The demonstrations shall include sample test motor(s), preparation of devices, 

establishment of test conditions, and setup/use of major equipment. The assessor will use the 

Test Method Review Summary (see 1.6.4) and the EEM Program-Specific Checklist (see 1.6.3) 

in reviewing and summarizing the laboratory’s ability to conduct testing. 

6 NIST Handbook 150-10:2013 
 

 

The assessor may select and trace the history of one or more motors from receipt to final issuance 

of the test reports. 

g)	 Proficiency testing: The assessor will discuss all aspects of proficiency testing results with 

appropriate staff. Test methodology and records documenting the laboratory’s execution of the 

testing will be reviewed and discussed. Any unusual trends or outlying results will be discussed. 

NVLAP reserves the right to provide a motor as a proficiency test sample. The assessor may 

request testing or a demonstration using this or another motor. 

h)	 On-site assessment report: The assessor will complete an on-site assessment report, which 

summarizes the findings and clearly lists all nonconformities and comments (positive or 

negative). The first page of the report shall be signed by the assessor and the laboratory’s 

authorized representative or designee to acknowledge receiving the on-site report, but this does 

not necessarily indicate agreement with the findings by the laboratory. A copy of the report is 

given to the laboratory representative for retention, and the assessor sends the original to NVLAP. 

All observations made by the assessor are held in the strictest confidence. 

i)	 Closing meeting: The assessor will conduct a closing meeting with the laboratory manager, 

supervisory personnel, and other appropriate staff members to discuss the findings. During the 

visit the assessor will have categorized all findings identified as nonconformities and comments. 

These will be discussed at the closing meeting, and the assessor will specifically note items that 

have been corrected during the on-site assessment. The process for resolving nonconformities 

identified during the on-site assessment is documented in NIST Handbook 150. Disagreements 

between the laboratory and assessor may be referred to NVLAP for resolution. 

3.3.6 The laboratory shall resolve or formulate a plan to resolve all nonconformities and provide a 

response to NVLAP within 30 days from the date of the on-site assessment. In the case of an initial 

accreditation, all nonconformities shall be satisfactorily resolved before accreditation can be granted. 

3.3.7 The laboratory shall review all comments for potential improvements in efficiency of electric 

motors testing. 

3.3.8 The laboratory shall make available all calibration, traceability, and verification records for all 

equipment and instrumentation. 

3.4 Proficiency testing 

3.4.1 NIST Handbook 150 defines proficiency testing and describes how it is included in the 

accreditation process. Special proficiency testing rounds may be scheduled separately for specific needs. 

Proficiency testing fees may apply. 

3.4.2 As NVLAP prescribes, NVLAP or a proficiency testing contractor conducts rounds at regular 

intervals. Test motors, along with instructions for motor handling, preparation, conditioning, mounting, 

and testing, and data forms are provided to participating laboratories. The completed test data forms are 

sent by the participating laboratories to NVLAP or, as directed, to the proficiency testing contractor. The 

results of all participants are summarized in a NVLAP Tech Brief, which is edited and sent by NVLAP to 

participants. The identity and performance of individual laboratories are kept confidential. 

NIST Handbook 150-10:2013 7 
 

3.4.3 Laboratories renewing accreditation shall have satisfactorily participated in all required 

proficiency testing during their previous accreditation period. Laboratories applying for initial 

accreditation shall also participate satisfactorily in proficiency testing (or a suitable alternative, if 

available), provided the proficiency testing is offered during the application period, before accreditation 

will be granted. 

Failure to participate in proficiency testing or return the completed test data forms by the deadline is 

considered a nonconformity and may result in suspension of laboratory accreditation. 

3.4.4 Generally, it is required that the specific proficiency test procedure be conducted in accordance 

with the applicable standard test method. At times, however, NVLAP may specify special conditions to 

assure uniformity in procedures and test conditions among participants. These may include the number of 

replicate measurements, special conditions of temperature, or other test parameters. Also, proficiency 

testing may consist of several parts in order that the operation of a laboratory might be evaluated. 

Portions of the standard test procedure may be emphasized, such as measurement, instrumentation, 

hardware, and data analysis. Proficiency testing shall not be contracted out to another laboratory. 

3.4.5 Proficiency test data are analyzed by NVLAP using statistical procedures to determine 

distributions and parameters such as averages, standard deviations, and outliers (see ASTM E178). Using 

the test data from proficiency testing, the laboratory shall monitor its own testing performance. 

Procedures for receiving, analyzing, and monitoring the laboratory’s own test results shall be documented 

in its management system. 

3.4.6 Unsatisfactory performance in proficiency testing (e.g., outlying results) is a technical 

nonconformity that must be resolved by the laboratory to maintain its accreditation. If the laboratory 

performs unsatisfactorily in any proficiency test, it shall take corrective action to investigate and resolve 

nonconformities in a timely manner, according to the requirements of NIST Handbook 150 for the control 

of nonconforming work. Unsatisfactory performance in proficiency testing may result in suspension or 

revocation of accreditation. 

3.4.7 The results of proficiency testing shall be made available to NVLAP assessors for use during 

laboratory on-site assessment visits. Any problems indicated by proficiency testing shall be discussed 

with appropriate laboratory personnel responsible for developing and implementing plans for resolving 

the problems. 

4 Management requirements for accreditation 

4.1 Organization 

There are no requirements additional to those set forth in NIST Handbook 150. 

4.2 Management system 

4.2.1 The laboratory shall ensure that the requirements of NIST Handbook 150 are met so that staff are 

knowledgeable of the electronic- or paper-based documentation system and can demonstrate, if 

authorized, the retrieval of needed documents and/or records. 

8 NIST Handbook 150-10:2013 
4.2.2 The laboratory shall create a cross-reference document that facilitates verification by both the 

laboratory and the NVLAP assessor that all program requirements have been addressed by the 

management system. This cross-reference shall include clauses 4 and 5 and annexes A and B of NIST 

Handbook 150 and the corresponding NIST Handbook 150-10. The cross-reference requirement is 

satisfied if the management system documentation is organized and numbered the same as NIST 

Handbook 150. 

4.3 Document control 

There are no requirements additional to those set forth in NIST Handbook 150. 

4.4 Review of requests, tenders and contracts 

There are no requirements additional to those set forth in NIST Handbook 150. 

4.5 Subcontracting of tests and calibrations 

There are no requirements additional to those set forth in NIST Handbook 150. 

4.6 Purchasing services and supplies 

The laboratory shall evaluate vendors and verify or test incoming equipment, materials, and supplies that 

affect the quality and accuracy of test results. Records that these items have been reviewed for technical 

completeness shall be examined by the assessor. 

These records of evaluations shall include (but are not limited to): 

a) calibration service providers/calibration certificates;
 

b) general laboratory equipment and supplies, including thermocouples and thermocouple wire; 

c) data processing and acquisition equipment. 

4.7 Service to the customer 

There are no requirements additional to those set forth in NIST Handbook 150. 

4.8 Complaints 

There are no requirements additional to those set forth in NIST Handbook 150. 

4.9 Control of nonconforming testing and/or calibration work 

There are no requirements additional to those set forth in NIST Handbook 150. 

NIST Handbook 150-10:2013 9 
4.10 Improvement 

There are no requirements additional to those set forth in NIST Handbook 150. 

4.11 Corrective action 

There are no requirements additional to those set forth in NIST Handbook 150. 

4.12 Preventive action 

There are no requirements additional to those set forth in NIST Handbook 150. 

4.13 Control of records 

4.13.1 In addition to the requirements in 4.13.2.1 of NIST Handbook 150 to identify the personnel 

responsible for sampling, testing, calibration and checking results, the personnel responsible for motor 

preparation and, where appropriate, the associated date(s), shall also be identified in the records 

(test/calibration/verification, etc.; hard copy and electronic). 

4.13.2 The records shall include (but are not limited to): 

a) acceptance/rejection of motors submitted for testing; 

b) comprehensive logs for tracking motors and test activities; 

c) original data collected by the laboratory; 

d) calibration and verification data; 

e) data and results of quality control; 

f) equipment and maintenance records; 

g) test reports. 

4.13.3 Test records sufficient to reconstruct the test shall be kept for a period of at least three years 

following the issuance of a test report, unless a longer period is required by the customer, regulation, or 

the laboratory’s own procedures. 

4.14 Internal audits 

4.14.1 An applicant laboratory shall conduct at least one complete internal audit prior to the first on-site 

assessment. 

4.14.2 Internal audits are separate and distinct from management reviews (see 4.15) and the NVLAP 

assessment. 

10 NIST Handbook 150-10:2013 
 

 

4.15 Management reviews 

An applicant laboratory shall perform at least one complete management review prior to the first on-site 

assessment. 

5 Technical requirements for accreditation 

5.1 General 

There are no requirements additional to those set forth in NIST Handbook 150. 

5.2 Personnel 

5.2.1 Personnel records 

5.2.1.1 The laboratory shall maintain a list of personnel designated to fulfill NVLAP requirements. 

5.2.1.2 The laboratory shall document and maintain records on the required qualifications of each staff 

member, including a résumé of qualifications; laboratory testing procedures to which the person is 

assigned and authorized to perform; and the results of periodic testing performance (competency) reviews 

(see also 5.2.3.4), which may include testing among laboratories and/or repeated testing by the same 

operator or comparative testing with two or more operators. 

5.2.1.3 The laboratory shall notify NVLAP when key personnel are added to or removed from the staff. 

Notification to NVLAP of personnel changes shall include a current résumé for each new staff member. 

5.2.2 Specific experience and competence of technical director 

The laboratory’s technical director (or an appropriate supervisor) shall be experienced in efficiency of 

electric motors testing and shall have the technical competence and the supervisory capability to direct the 

work of professionals and technicians in efficiency of electric motors testing. 

5.2.3 Competency reviews 

5.2.3.1 The EEM Program-Specific Checklist lists specific personnel competency requirements as related 

to testing. 

5.2.3.2 The laboratory shall evaluate the competency of each staff member for each testing procedure 

before authorization is conferred to perform that testing independently. 

5.2.3.3 For each staff member, the staff member’s immediate supervisor, or a designee appointed by the 

laboratory director, shall conduct annually an assessment and an observation of performance competency. 

These reviews shall be planned to cover all authorized testing procedures over a defined period of time. 

This period of time is not necessarily one year and may vary depending upon the experience and previous 

performance of the staff member. 

NIST Handbook 150-10:2013 11 
 

5.2.3.4 These annual performance competency reviews shall be documented, dated, signed by the 

supervisor and the employee, retained in the personnel file, and be available for review by the assessor. 

For the purpose of on-site assessments, a separate personnel folder of information specific to applicable 

NVLAP requirements may be provided instead of the complete folder, which may contain confidential 

information not needed for the assessment. 

5.2.4 Training 

5.2.4.1 The training program shall be updated and current staff members shall be given additional 

training when test methods are updated or procedures changed, or when the individuals are assigned new 

responsibilities. 

5.2.4.2 Each staff member may receive training for assigned duties either through on-the-job training, 

formal classroom study, attendance at conferences, or another appropriate mechanism. 

5.2.4.3 The laboratory shall ensure that each new staff member is trained for the testing duties assigned. 

Minimum training requirements are described in the EEM Program-Specific Checklist. 

5.2.4.4 Training materials that are maintained within the laboratory shall be kept up-to-date, including 

applicable versions of standard test methods, as well as appropriate reference documents, texts, and 

scientific and industry periodicals. These materials shall be readily available to the laboratory staff. 

5.3 Accommodation and environmental conditions 

Specific environmental requirements for EEM laboratories are provided in the EEM Program-Specific 

Checklist. 

5.4 Test and calibration methods and method validation 

5.4.1 Standard test methods 

5.4.1.1 The management system documentation shall contain detailed written instructions for conducting 

the test methods for which it seeks or holds accreditation. These detailed instructions, including those for 

equipment operation, calibration checks, and quality control checks, shall address laboratory-specific 

information not contained in the standard method. 

NOTE The standardized efficiency test procedure has been developed to be generally applicable to a variety of 

electric motors that differ by factors such as size, shape, power, and speed. As a consequence, the detailed 

instructions described in 5.4.1.1 are required. 

5.4.1.2 For compliance with the DOE requirements (also see Introduction) in the NVLAP EEM LAP, 

laboratories shall use the test procedures described under “Energy Conservation Program: Test 

Procedures for Electric Motors and Small Electric Motors, Final Rule,” Federal Register 77: 87 (4 May 

2012), pp. 26608-26640 (to be codified at 10 CFR Part 431). 

5.4.1.3 The laboratory shall have readily available the regulation(s) and the applicable version of the 

standard(s) for the test methods for which accreditation is requested. 

12 NIST Handbook 150-10:2013 
5.4.1.4 When a test method references another test method, guide, practice, or specification, the 

laboratory shall have readily available the referenced documents, where relevant. 

5.4.1.5 If a customer, for whatever reason (e.g., regulatory requirement), requires accreditation to 

versions of a test method that are not the latest published version, then the laboratory shall document that 

requirement and shall have readily available the required version of the test method. 

5.4.1.6 The EEM Program-Specific Checklist contains additional requirements related to test methods, 

calibrations and conduct of tests. 

NOTE The type and size of motors that fall within the scope of the IEEE 112-2004, CSA C390-10 Method 1, 

IEEE 114-2010, and/or CSA C747-09 test procedure is broad. In some cases, a laboratory’s test equipment may be 

limited such that the laboratory cannot measure the efficiency of the complete range of motors covered by the 

standard. 

5.4.2 Estimation of measurement uncertainty 

At a minimum, the management system documentation shall list the important variables that substantially 

affect the uncertainty of the test results. The uncertainty shall be determined and reported when required 

by the test method, the regulator, or the customer. 

5.5 Equipment 

The EEM Program-Specific Checklist contains additional requirements related to testing equipment. 

5.6 Measurement traceability 

5.6.1 To account for the effects on traceability of the calibration of measuring and test equipment, the 

laboratory shall determine equipment calibration, verification, and maintenance intervals based on the 

equipment’s frequency of use and the environment in which it is used, and also in accordance with 

standard test methods, manufacturer’s recommendations, or as specified in the EEM Program-Specific 

Checklist, whichever results in a shorter time between calibrations. Extension of the time interval 

between calibrations is acceptable if the laboratory can provide justification for increasing the interval. 

5.6.2 Proper performance of the testing equipment shall be periodically verified as needed. 

5.6.3 The reference standards used and the environmental conditions at the time of calibration shall be 

documented for all calibrations. 

5.6.4 The following requirements apply for calibrations and calibration certificates. 

a) Certificates are required for calibrations performed by outside services. A calibration certificate 

shall indicate uncertainty and/or a statement of compliance with an identified metrological 

specification, and traceability of reference standards. 

b) Certificates are not required when a laboratory performs its own calibration and records are kept. If 

the testing laboratory performs its own calibration, the identity of the personnel involved, the 

standard metrological procedures used, the reference standards used, the environmental conditions, 

NIST Handbook 150-10:2013 13 
and the measurement uncertainty shall be documented. These records shall contain sufficient 

information to permit repetition of the calibration. 

c) For calibrations performed by the testing laboratory, it shall have properly trained personnel who 

understand the importance of the various factors that affect the uncertainty of the calibration and its 

effect on the uncertainty of the final test result (see NIST Handbook 150, 5.4.6). 

5.6.5 In addition to the information specified in NIST Handbook 150, 5.5.5, calibration or verification 

records shall include the following: 

a) a list of all equipment variables requiring calibration, traceability, or verification; 

b) range of calibration/traceability/verification; 

c) resolution (precision or the number of digits read) of the instrument and its allowable error (i.e., 

tolerance); 

d) periodic verification dates and schedule; 

e) identity of the laboratory individual/group or external service responsible for calibration; 

f) identity and source of reference standard(s) and traceability.
 

NOTE Often the tolerance of the instrument and therefore the “pass or fail” of the instrument is based on the 

tolerance listed in the instrument manual. This may be very different from the allowable NVLAP tolerance (see the 

EEM Program-Specific Checklist, 5.5 e)). 

5.7 Sampling 

There are no requirements additional to those set forth in NIST Handbook 150. 

5.8 Handling of test and calibration items 

There are no requirements additional to those set forth in NIST Handbook 150. 

5.9 Assuring the quality of test and calibration results 

There are no requirements additional to those set forth in NIST Handbook 150. 

5.10 Reporting the results 

5.10.1 General 

5.10.1.1 Where appropriate, test reports shall clearly state that the test results apply to the product or 

system as tested and, if required, conform to regulatory requirements. 

5.10.1.2 The correlation factor for smoothing stray-load loss shall be equal to or greater than the 

minimum value prescribed by the applicable standard with no more than one of the six points omitted 

14 NIST Handbook 150-10:2013 
 

 

from the analysis. For efficiency testing using IEEE 112-2004 Method B, the minimum value is 0.90. 

For efficiency testing using CSA C390-10 Method 1, the minimum value is 0.95. 

NOTE This requirement does not apply to efficiency testing of Small Electric Motors. 

5.10.1.3 When necessary to repeat the test to obtain a correlation factor equal to or greater than the 

minimum values listed above, the source of error shall be investigated and corrected prior to rerunning the 

test. 

NOTE This requirement does not apply to efficiency testing of Small Electric Motors. 

5.10.2 Data analysis and report generation 

5.10.2.1 In some cases, raw data collected by computer are collated, reduced, analyzed, or otherwise 

treated for direct incorporation in the test report. Such treatment involving transmission of the data, 

writing, and generation of the test report is generally performed at the laboratory or at an area close to the 

facility and under the control of laboratory personnel. In such cases, the laboratory personnel responsible 

for the report writing and generation shall be available during the laboratory’s on-site assessment to be 

interviewed by the assessor for evaluation of the laboratory’s compliance with the NVLAP criteria for test 

reports. The assessor shall perform an independent calculation of the efficiency based on laboratory test 

results and compare the independently-calculated efficiency with that calculated by the laboratory. 

5.10.2.2 At times, the final report may be written and generated at an off-site facility that is located 

some distance from the testing laboratory such that the assessor cannot interview the off-site personnel. 

In such a case, the laboratory shall have in place for assessor review appropriate written descriptions in 

the management system documentation of procedures and documentation for assuring the accuracy and 

validity of the data transmission, the incorporation and accurate analysis of the data in the test report, and 

the compliance of the test report with NVLAP criteria. Depending on the on-site laboratory evaluations 

of these written descriptions, a visit to the off-site facility may be required. When warranted, an assessor 

will visit the off-site facility at additional cost to the laboratory before accreditation is granted or renewed. 

5.10.2.3 When a test report is written at an off-site facility such that the assessor cannot interview the 

off-site personnel, the report shall include the names and addresses of both those responsible for 

conducting the laboratory tests and for writing and generating the test report. Copies of typical reports 

written at an off-site facility shall be available at the laboratory at the time of the on-site assessment and 

these typical reports shall be reviewed by the assessor for compliance with NVLAP requirements. The 

assessor shall perform an independent calculation of efficiency and compare it to that calculated at the 

off-site facility as required in 5.10.2.1. 

5.10.2.4 If a laboratory uses several organizational departments for the discrete functions of testing, 

data collection, data processing, and/or test report preparation and generation, it is necessary that lines of 

responsibility with distinct supervisory positions be defined and that no conflicts exist. The assessor shall 

review the procedures and documentation of the lines of responsibility with distinct supervisory positions 

during the on-site assessment, and also shall verify that all NVLAP requirements regarding the writing 

and storage of reports are followed. 

NIST Handbook 150-10:2013 15 
6 Additional requirements 

There are no additional requirements beyond NIST Handbook 150 and any other normative references 

previously cited in this handbook. 

16 NIST Handbook 150-10:2013