NISTHB 150-11

NVLAP

Electromagnetic

Compatibility and

Telecommunications

Bethany Hackett

Bradley Moore

Dennis Camell

http://dx.doi.org/10.6028/NIST.HB.150-11
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NISTHB 150-11

NVLAP

Electromagnetic

Compatibility and

Telecommunications

Bethany Hackett

Bradley Moore

National Voluntary Laboratory Accreditation Program

Standards Coordination Office

Laboratory Programs

Dennis Camell

Electromagnetics Division

Physical Measurement Laboratory

http://dx.doi.org/10.6028/NIST.HB.150-11

April 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.
NIST Handbook 150-11:2013 iii

Contents

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

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

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

1.1 Scope of handbook ..................................................................................................................1

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

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

1.4 References................................................................................................................................2

1.5 Terms and definitions..............................................................................................................2

1.6 Program documentation...........................................................................................................3

2 LAP establishment, development and implementation.......................................................................4

3 Accreditation process..........................................................................................................................4

3.1 General.....................................................................................................................................4

3.2 Management system review.....................................................................................................4

3.3 On-site assessment...................................................................................................................4

4 Management requirements for accreditation.......................................................................................7

4.1 Organization ............................................................................................................................7

4.2 Management system ................................................................................................................7

4.3 Document control ....................................................................................................................7

4.4 Review of requests, tenders and contracts...............................................................................8

4.5 Subcontracting of tests.............................................................................................................8

4.6 Purchasing services and supplies.............................................................................................8

4.7 Service to the customer............................................................................................................8

4.8 Complaints...............................................................................................................................8

4.9 Control of nonconforming testing work ..................................................................................8

4.10 Improvement............................................................................................................................8

4.11 Corrective action......................................................................................................................8

4.12 Preventive action .....................................................................................................................8

4.13 Control of records....................................................................................................................9

4.14 Internal audits ..........................................................................................................................9

4.15 Management reviews...............................................................................................................9

5 Technical requirements for accreditation............................................................................................9

5.1 General.....................................................................................................................................9

5.2 Personnel..................................................................................................................................9

5.3 Accommodation and environmental conditions ......................................................................9

5.4 Test methods and method validation ..................................................................................... 10

5.5 Equipment.............................................................................................................................. 10

5.6 Measurement traceability....................................................................................................... 11

5.7 Sampling................................................................................................................................ 11

5.8 Handling of test items............................................................................................................ 11

5.9 Assuring the quality of test results......................................................................................... 11

5.10 Reporting the results.............................................................................................................. 12
iv NIST Handbook 150-11:2013

6 Additional requirements.................................................................................................................... 12

Annex A (informative) Information about selected ECT standards ........................................................... 13
NIST Handbook 150-11:2013 v

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, but rather 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 150-11, NVLAP Electromagnetic Compatibility and Telecommunications, presents the 

technical requirements and guidance for the accreditation of laboratories under the NVLAP 

Electromagnetic Compatibility and Telecommunications (ECT) LAP. The 2013 edition of NIST 

Handbook 150-11 supersedes and replaces all previous editions.

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

compatibility and telecommunications testing and was approved by NVLAP. The following main 

changes have been made to this handbook:

content that was determined to be redundant with NIST Handbook 150 has been removed;

clarifying text has been added to certain technical requirements to reduce ambiguity and improve 

understanding;

identification of the minimum level and frequency of participation in proficiency testing activity 

required has been included, as well as the review of the participation and performance during the 

assessment and accreditation decision process;

editorial revisions have been made to improve readability and consistency with other NVLAP 

publications, as well as minor technical revisions such as updating references and definitions.

Annex A (informative) provides a list of major ECT standards-issuing bodies, acronyms commonly cited, 

and the national economies for which the standards have been issued.

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.
vi NIST Handbook 150-11:2013

Introduction

General

All electrical devices are potential sources of electromagnetic energy and are potentially affected by 

electromagnetic energy emitted from other electrical devices in their vicinity. These emissions may 

interfere with the performance and safe operation of a device. In fact, an electrical device is classified as 

either a non-intentional radiator, generating emissions as a by-product of normal operation (for example, a 

television or personal computer), or as an intentional radiator (for example, a citizens band radio or cell 

phone).

Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) is the ability of a device, product, or system to operate properly in 

its intended electromagnetic environment without degradation and without being a source of 

electromagnetic interference (EMI). As more sophisticated and sensitive electronic devices enter the 

marketplace, electromagnetic compatibility becomes more and more important.

In order to achieve EMC, governments set limits, and device manufacturers, including device purchasers, 

set requirements for the design, production, and operation of electronic systems that are 

electromagnetically compatible with their environments.

Types of requirements

In the United States, the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) sets requirements for various 

commercial and consumer electronic devices and systems. Commonly cited standards outside the United

States include International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) and Comité International Spécial des 

Perturbations Radioélectriques (International Special Committee on Radio Interference) (CISPR) 

standards.

With the global nature of trade, the devices manufactured must meet the EMC requirements of the

economies in which they are sold. Governments, buyers, and manufacturers often cite international EMC 

voluntary standards. To meet this need NVLAP tracks and accredits to a list of test method requirements 

in the ECT LAP.

Some categories of standards have evolved from older application categories, including telephony and 

radio communications. As early as 1977, the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) began 

to develop its Open Systems Interconnection Basic Reference Model as an abstract description for 

communications and computer network protocol design, including physical standards, protocol standards, 

and interoperability standards. Also included are “harms to the network” test methods for wired 

telecommunications. Network Equipment Building System (NEBS) standards apply to the broad array of 

devices intended for the central office (CO) environment and procurements by Local Exchange Carriers 

(LECs), Competitive Access Providers (CAPs), Competitive Local Exchange Carriers (CLECs), Internet 

Service Providers (ISPs), and Access Service Providers (ASPs).

Some EMC requirements are based on the intended usage environment of the product, often more 

extreme than normal business and other public applications. For example, U.S. Military Standards (MILSTD) 461/462 impose requirements for devices used in various ground, flight, and naval environments. 

Radio Technical Commission for Aeronautics, now RTCA, Inc., (RTCA) DO-160 test methods apply to 

devices dedicated to aeronautical environments.
NIST Handbook 150-11:2013 vii

Some standards that are not directly EMC standards, such as energy efficiency, product safety, and RF 

exposure, are also included in the ECT LAP.

History of the NVLAP ECT Program

The NVLAP ECT Program for FCC test methods was established in October 1985 in response to a 

request from five private-sector testing laboratories. The purpose of the program was to formally 

recognize laboratories found competent to perform testing in accordance with Title 47 of the U.S. Code of 

Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 15-Radio Frequency Devices and 47 CFR Part 68-Connection of 

Terminal Equipment to the Telephone Network. The program was expanded in 1988 in response to a 

request from the Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) for the establishment and maintenance of 

adequate technical resources for MIL-STD-462 Acceptance Testing as part of the NAVAIR Search for 

Excellence program. The purpose of that part of the program is to assess and accredit laboratories that 

produce reliable test data for the U.S. military.

Present status of the NVLAP ECT Program

At the time of publication, this handbook covers test methods used to demonstrate compliance with FCC 

requirements given in 47 CFR, Telecommunication, Parts 0 through 101, the test methods in MIL-STD 

461/462, the ANSI C63 standards, and the international standards IEC 61000-4-x series and CISPR 

product standards line (e.g., CISPR 11 and CISPR 22). 

Other test methods used to demonstrate compliance with specific national standards for electromagnetic 

compatibility are also covered. These standards include, but are not limited to, Australia and New Zealand 

(AS/NZS) standards, Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) Technical 

Specifications (TSs), Chinese National Standards (CNS), and Canadian Compliance Specifications (CS) 

03. In addition, by virtue of a memorandum of understanding between NVLAP and the VCCI Council 

(VCCI) of Japan, NVLAP provides ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation of any electromagnetic compatibilitytesting laboratory to the Normative Annex 1 Technical Requirements of Regulations (VCCI V-3) for 

voluntary control measures of VCCI.

Due to periodic updates and modifications to international, national, and regional requirements, users of 

this handbook should check frequently with the issuing bodies of the applicable standards and 

requirements for changes and additions. Please check the NVLAP website or contact the ECT Program 

Management on questions about specific standards for which accreditation is available or may be made 

available. Informative Annex A provides the names and acronyms of the common EMC standards 

organizations and, where applicable, the national economies for which the standards have been issued.
viii NIST Handbook 150-11:2013

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NIST Handbook 150-11:2013 1

1 General information

1.1 Scope of handbook

1.1.1 NIST Handbook 150-11 identifies the program-specific requirements and provides guidance for 

the accreditation of laboratories under the NVLAP Electromagnetic Compatibility and 

Telecommunications Laboratory Accreditation Program (ECT 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 ECT LAP.

1.1.2 NIST Handbook 150, this handbook, 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 

ECT LAP.

1.1.3 This handbook does not contain the general requirements for accreditation. The general 

requirements are included in NIST Handbook 150. This handbook is intended for information and use by 

accredited ECT 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 ECT 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

The purpose of the ECT LAP is to accredit testing laboratories found capable and competent to perform 

EMC conformance testing to FCC, MIL-STD, IEC, EN, CISPR, and other test method standards that 

have been and may be added to the program.

The program includes standards for the testing of both intentional radiators (i.e., radio transmitters) and 

unintentional radiators (i.e., digital devices), as well as wireless and wired telecommunications products. 

The program also includes various test standards for conformance, performance, and/or interoperability. 

In addition, the program envelops test standards that are part of the FCC regulatory requirements 

associated with radio frequency (RF) safety.

The NVLAP ECT program includes test method standards for many areas including:

Electromagnetic emissions;

Electromagnetic immunity;

Mil-Stds electromagnetic compatibility (emissions and susceptibility);
2 NIST Handbook 150-11:2013

Energy Star;

Telecommunications;

Radio conformance;

Product Safety;

RF Exposure.

Laboratories may seek accreditation in test methods in any of the areas listed above.

1.4 References

The following references are important for the application of this handbook. For dated references, only 

the edition cited applies. For undated references, the latest edition of the referenced document applies.

— NIST Handbook 150, NVLAP Procedures and General Requirements

— 47 U.S. Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Telecommunication, Parts 0 through 101

— ISO 7637-2, Road vehicles — Electrical disturbances from conduction and coupling — Part 2: 

Electrical transient conduction along supply lines only

— ISO/IEC 17043:2010, Conformity assessment – General requirements for proficiency testing

— ISO/IEC Guide 98-3:2008, Uncertainty of measurement - Part 3: Guide to the expression of 

uncertainty in measurement (GUM:1995)

— ISO/IEC Guide 99:2007, International vocabulary of metrology – Basic and general concepts and 

associated terms (VIM)

1.5 Terms and definitions

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

definitions given in the standards, for which the laboratory seeks accreditation, and the following terms, 

which are contained in ISO/IEC Guide 99 (2007) apply.

1.5.1

calibration

Operation that, under specified conditions, in a first step establishes a relation between the quantity values 

with measurement uncertainties provided by measurement standards and corresponding indications with 

associated measurement uncertainties and, in a second step, uses this information to establish a relation 

for obtaining a measurement result from an indication. A calibration may be expressed by a statement, 

calibration function, calibration diagram, calibration curve, or calibration table. In some cases it may 

consist of an additive or multiplicative correction of the indication with associated measurement 

uncertainty.
NIST Handbook 150-11:2013 3

1.5.2

uncertainty budget

Statement of a measurement uncertainty, of the components of that measurement uncertainty, and of their 

calculation and combination.

1.5.3

validation

Verification, where the specified requirements are adequate for the intended use.

1.5.4

verification

Provision of objective evidence that a given item fulfills specified requirements. When applicable, 

measurement uncertainty should be taken into consideration.

1.6 Program documentation

1.6.1 General

Assessors use NVLAP checklists and test method review summary forms to ensure assessment 

consistency. Checklists assist assessors in documenting compliance with the NVLAP requirements found

in NIST Handbook 150, this handbook, and the specific test methods for which accreditation is requested. 

Checklists and test method review summary forms are part of the On-Site Assessment Report (see NIST 

Handbook 150). These documents are available on the NVLAP website, <http://www.nist.gov/nvlap>.

1.6.2 NIST Handbook 150 Checklist

All NVLAP programs use the NIST Handbook 150 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 150-11 Checklist

The NIST Handbook 150-11 Checklist (also referred to as the ECT Program-Specific Checklist) 

addresses the requirements specific to electromagnetic compatibility and telecommunications testing 

given in NIST Handbook 150-11. Other checklists (such as Handbook 150-11A, a checklist for FCC Parts 

2, 15, and 18) may apply and are available on the NVLAP website.

1.6.4 Test Method Review Summary 

Because of the very large number of relevant standards and test methods in the ECT LAP, the assessor 

uses Test Method Review Summary forms, along with applicable checklists, to evaluate the laboratory’s 

compliance to the test methods. The evaluation of the test methods by the assessor ranges from observing 

tests to having laboratory staff describe the test procedures. The assessor notes on the Test Method 

Review Summary form the depth into which each part of the test method was reviewed (Observed Test,

Examined Apparatus, Walked/Talked Through Test, Listened to Description of Procedures).

1.6.5 NVLAP Lab Bulletins

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

requirements and to provide information about the most current program additions and changes. Lab 
4 NIST Handbook 150-11:2013

Bulletins providing additions or changes to the current program will supersede the requirements of the 

current published handbook until such time as the additions or changes are published in a revision of the 

handbook. Lab Bulletins are posted on the program-specific handbooks page of the NVLAP website.

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 the on-site assessment, the lab is requested to provide a cross-reference document 

allowing a NVLAP assessor to verify that all requirements of clauses 4 and 5 and annexes A and B of 

NIST Handbook 150 and the corresponding NIST Handbook 150-11 are addressed in the management 

system documentation. The cross-reference document should verify that all requirements of this 

handbook and clauses 4 and 5 and annexes A and B of NIST Handbook 150 are addressed and their 

locations clearly identified in the management system documentation.

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

documentation against 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. Because of the very large number of relevant 

standards in the ECT LAP, relevant test method(s), operator instructions, and/or test procedures may be 

requested by the assessor for review in advance of the on-site assessment. 

3.3 On-site assessment

3.3.1 General information

3.3.1.1 The purpose of the on-site assessment is to determine the laboratory’s compliance with NIST 

Handbook 150, this handbook, and its own management system and to assess the capability and 

competence of the testing activities for which accreditation is being requested.

3.3.1.2 For laboratories that perform testing at locations other than the primary facility covered under the 

accreditation, these will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis to determine the extent of on-site review 

necessary.
NIST Handbook 150-11:2013 5

3.3.1.3 Prior to the on-site assessment, the NVLAP assessor will provide a preliminary agenda. The 

laboratory shall be prepared to conduct test demonstrations, have equipment in good working order, and 

be ready for examination according to the requirements identified in this handbook, NIST Handbook 150, 

Handbook 150-11A Checklist (if applicable), and the laboratory’s management system.

3.3.1.4 The laboratory shall make available all supporting technical information. All relevant 

documentation shall be provided to NVLAP and its assessors in English.

3.3.1.5 In addition to the checklists, to help assure the completeness, objectivity, and uniformity of the 

on-site assessment, the assessor uses the NVLAP Test Method Review Summary form to review the 

capability of the laboratory personnel to perform testing for which accreditation is sought. The test 

method review ranges from observing tests to having laboratory staff describe the test procedures. The 

assessor notes the depth to which each part of the test method was reviewed and records the results of the 

review.

3.3.2 Typical on-site assessment

3.3.2.1 Assessment activities

The NVLAP assessor performs the following activities during a typical on-site assessment:

a) Conducts an opening meeting with the laboratory to explain the purpose of the on-site visit and to 

discuss the schedule for the day(s). At the discretion of the laboratory manager, other staff may 

attend the meeting.

b) Reviews laboratory documentation not provided for review prior to the assessment, including the 

management system, equipment and maintenance records, record-keeping procedures, testing 

procedures, laboratory test records and reports, personnel competency records, personnel training 

plans and records, and safeguards for the protection of sensitive and proprietary information. 

At least one laboratory staff member shall be available to answer questions; however, the assessor 

may request to review the documents and records alone. 

c) Physically examines equipment and facilities, observes the demonstration of selected procedures by 

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

demonstrations requested may be selective or all-inclusive and shall include the use of sample test 

devices, preparation of the test device, and establishment of test conditions and the setup/use of 

major equipment. The assessor will also review the test data and examine the hardware/software 

for functionality and appropriateness.

d) Completes an On-Site Assessment Report, which contains the NVLAP On-Site Assessment 

Signature Sheet with Narrative Summary, NIST Handbook 150 Checklist, NIST Handbook 150-11 

Checklist, NIST Handbook 150-11A Checklist (if applicable), and the Test Method Review 

Summary form.

Comments in the report should be given serious consideration by the laboratory, but no action is 

mandated and changes are made at the laboratory’s discretion. Comments are those areas of 

concern where a nonconformity may arise; however, no objective evidence is available to support 

citing a nonconformity. Historically, it has been noted that comments often rise to the level of 

nonconformities on subsequent assessments. As such, comments noted in the assessment will be 
6 NIST Handbook 150-11:2013

reviewed at the next on-site assessment to ensure that these issues have not risen to the level of 

nonconformities since the last on-site visit.

e) Conducts a closing meeting with the laboratory to explain the findings of the visit. At the closing 

meeting, the report shall be signed by the assessor and the laboratory’s Authorized Representative 

to acknowledge the discussion of the outcome of the on-site assessment. The Authorized 

Representative’s signature does not necessarily indicate agreement, and challenges may be made 

through NVLAP. The process for resolving nonconformities identified during the on-site is 

documented in NIST Handbook 150.

3.3.2.2 Proficiency testing

NVLAP does not organize a proficiency testing scheme for the ECT program. The laboratory shall assure 

the quality of tests in accordance with NIST Handbook 150-11, 5.9. The results of the quality assurance 

monitoring will be reviewed by the assessor during the on-site assessment.

3.3.3 Specific requirements for ECT on-site assessments

3.3.3.1 All laboratory equipment required to perform accredited testing, including equipment that is 

rented to perform testing, shall be available for assessment and in compliance with testing requirements. 

The assessor will physically examine equipment and facilities. This includes storage areas, shielded 

enclosures, open area test sites (OATS), anechoic and semi-anechoic chambers, pre-scan areas, test 

benches, electronics, test jigs, and antennas, as appropriate.

3.3.3.2 The laboratory shall have normalized site attenuation (NSA) measurement reports for all OATS 

and semi-anechoic chambers that are used for work under the NVLAP scope of accreditation and make 

these reports available to the assessor. The assessor will review these NSA measurement reports during 

the on-site assessment for adequacy and completeness. For test sites used for conducting tests above 

1 GHz, the laboratory shall make available for review the results of the Site Voltage Standing Wave Ratio 

(SVSWR) for each test site. 

3.3.3.3 For FCC CFR Part 68-Connection of Terminal Equipment to the Telephone Network, and other 

similar standards and regulations, an appropriate test artifact shall be used to demonstrate the test 

equipment.

3.3.4 Demonstrations

3.3.4.1 Assessor safety

The assessor may decline to observe a potentially hazardous test unless appropriate measures are taken.

3.3.4.2 Conducted and radiated emissions measurements

Demonstrations shall include the use of receivers and/or spectrum analyzers in shielded enclosures, prescan areas, OATS, and/or fully or semi-anechoic chambers.

3.3.4.3 Test site validation as part of demonstration

3.3.4.3.1 As part of the demonstration of measurement, an OATS or an alternative site, for testing 

performed below 1 GHz, shall be validated at least at three frequencies of measure in both horizontal and 
NIST Handbook 150-11:2013 7

vertical polarization at a single test distance. This information is recorded in NIST Handbook 150-11A, 

ECT: FCC Parts 2, 15 and 18 Checklist.

For laboratories using outside services to perform normalized site attenuation (NSA), the capability to 

perform NSA shall be available during the on-site assessment.

3.3.4.3.2 For test sites used for conducting tests above 1 GHz, the laboratory shall make available for 

review the results of the Site Voltage Standing Wave Ratio (SVSWR) for each test site.

3.3.4.4 Demonstrations for multiple facilities

If the laboratory maintains more than one OATS and/or alternative site, the assessor will ask questions to 

determine whether all sites are operated and equipped such that the requirements of NVLAP, applicable 

regulatory bodies, and the test methods within the laboratory’s scope of accreditation are met. Usually 

one site will be examined; however, at the discretion of the assessor, more than one site may be 

examined.

3.3.5 Nonconformity resolution

The laboratory shall resolve all nonconformities and provide a response to NVLAP within 30 days from 

the date of completion of the on-site assessment. 

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.

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

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

4.2.3 When a test method references another test method, guide, practice, or specification, which 

contains the procedure for the testing process, the laboratory shall have readily available the referenced 

documents.

4.3 Document control

The master list or document control procedure that identifies the current revision status and distribution of 

documents shall include all national and/or international standards on the requested scope of accreditation 

(see NIST Handbook 150, 4.3.2.1).
8 NIST Handbook 150-11:2013

4.4 Review of requests, tenders, and contracts

All requests, tenders, and contracts shall be available for selection and examination by the assessor for the 

period of time covered between the on-site assessments. 

4.5 Subcontracting of tests 

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

NOTE Subcontracting applies to any of the test methods on the scope of accreditation.

4.6 Purchasing services and supplies

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

NOTE Laboratories should pay special attention to the purchasing of calibration services from calibration service 

providers. The technical requirements of the calibration shall be specified by the laboratory (per NIST Handbook 

150, 4.6.3) as well as conformance to the appropriate traceability requirements in Annex B of NIST Handbook 150. 

Assessors will seek to determine that laboratory calibration records identify the measurement parameters, as well as 

the traceability chain for each parameter.

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 work

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

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.
NIST Handbook 150-11:2013 9

4.13 Control of records

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

4.14 Internal audits

4.14.1 The internal audit shall cover compliance with NVLAP accreditation requirements, the 

laboratory’s management system, as well as regulatory, contractual, and testing requirements.

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

assessment. The records will be reviewed by the NVLAP assessor before or during the on-site assessment 

visit.

4.14.3 For accredited laboratories, records of internal audits conducted since the previous on-site 

assessment shall be made available for review.

4.15 Management reviews

4.15.1 An applicant laboratory shall perform at least one complete management review prior to the first 

on-site assessment. The records will be reviewed by the NVLAP assessor before or during the on-site 

assessment visit.

4.15.2 For accredited laboratories, records of management reviews conducted since the previous on-site 

assessment shall be made available for review.

5 Technical requirements for accreditation

5.1 General

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

5.2 Personnel

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

5.3 Accommodation and environmental conditions

5.3.1 FCC Part 15-Radio Frequency Devices: If a test site other than an OATS is used, a complete 

description shall be available along with documentation of equivalence. 

5.3.2 All parts of the test site shall be operational and available for inspection during the on-site visit. 

The site attenuation shall be checked per ANSI C63.4 and complete written records shall be maintained. 

The site attenuation shall also be checked if significant changes are made in or near the OATS. This 

information will be reviewed during the on-site assessment visit.
10 NIST Handbook 150-11:2013

5.3.3 FCC Part 68-Connection of Terminal Equipment to the Telephone Network: The laboratory shall 

have a procedure for checking the testing system before each use. This is especially important for 

automated systems. The laboratory shall have at least one telephone device reserved for use in periodic 

checks of the test system.

5.4 Test methods and method validation

Measurement uncertainty is addressed in different ways depending on the test method standards that are 

employed.

a) If measurement uncertainty can be calculated from Type A and B uncertainties, then the procedure 

shall follow the GUM or NIST Technical Note 1297 (see references in NIST Handbook 150, 1.4). 

Unless stated by the standard, the coverage factor (k) shall be equal to 2 (two) such that the 

confidence interval is approximately 95 %.

b) In some instances, the standard provides a measurement uncertainty budget as part of the test 

method. Examples include European Telecommunications Standards Institute (ETSI) standards 

concerning radio measurements. Each measurement uncertainty budget shall be supported with 

calibration and computational data applicable to the test method as performed by that laboratory.

c) In some instances, the standard provides a tolerance for the test method (and does not refer to 

“measurement uncertainty”). Examples include MIL-STD 461E:1999, 4.2.1 (d), which defines a 

±3 dB tolerance for the measurement system (and an antenna to receiver tolerance of ±3 dB). The 

tolerance stated in the standard shall be supported by calibration data, measurement uncertainty

budgets and/or other appropriate calculations.

d) In some instances, the standard provides a tolerance for the test components and/or instrumentation, 

but not for the test method. The tolerance shall be supported by instrument specifications, 

calibration and computational data, or comparison to some other appropriate measurement standard. 

At this time, there are no additional requirements beyond those in NIST Handbook 150, 5.4.6.2 -

5.4.6.3.

e) In all other cases, the requirements in NIST Handbook 150, 5.4.6.2 - 5.4.6.3 apply.

5.5 Equipment

5.5.1 Shielded enclosure

The laboratory shall specify how it monitors and records the performance of its shielded enclosure, how 

often, and what data shall be recorded. For example, any changes made in or near the shielded enclosure 

should warrant that the enclosure’s performance be verified. Requirements for checking associated 

critical equipment, such as power line filters, and grounding systems shall also be specified and the results 

documented.

5.5.2 Line impedance stabilization networks

Line impedance stabilization networks (LISN) shall be calibrated for insertion loss and the impedance 

verified at least once per year.
NIST Handbook 150-11:2013 11

5.5.3 Equipment that produce transient waveforms

Equipment that produce transient waveforms (i.e., ESD simulators, burst generators, surge generators, 

automotive transient generators [per ISO 7637-2], and similar equipment) shall be verified with an 

oscilloscope at least once per year and photographs of the waveform verification shall be kept on file.

NOTE The waveform verification is performed in accordance with NIST Handbook 150, 5.5.10 for intermediate 

checks. It is not intended to replace the calibration schedule for the instrument.

5.5.4 Software

Software associated with automated test equipment (either stand-alone or computer-controlled) shall be 

validated before use. This includes validation of any software updates from the original equipment 

manufacturer (OEM) or other source.

5.6 Measurement traceability

If a laboratory calibrates its own antennas, spectrum analyzers, and/or measurement receivers, procedures 

and instructions for those calibrations, in accordance with the manufacturer’s calibration process and test 

method requirements, shall be maintained. Measurement uncertainties associated with these calibrations 

shall be estimated and reported in the calibration documentation. Antennas shall be calibrated to a 

recognized standard (e.g., ANSI C63.5, SAE ARP-958).

5.7 Sampling

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

NOTE The requirements in NIST Handbook 150 for sampling pertain to a laboratory’s selecting the sample to be 

tested. For most ECT test methods, the sample(s) is(are) selected by the laboratory’s customer.

5.8 Handling of test items

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

5.9 Assuring the quality of test results

5.9.1 The laboratory shall have procedures for the quality control activities performed to assure the 

validity of the tests. These procedures shall include predefined criteria.

NOTE 1 NIST Handbook 150, 5.9.1 identifies a number of monitoring methods that may be utilized to ensure the 

validity of tests. Laboratories could meet the requirements of section 5.9.1 by participation in proficiency testing or 

interlaboratory comparisons (ILCs), when available.

NOTE 2 NIST Handbook 150, 5.9.1 requires the resulting data to be recorded in such a way that trends are 

detectable and, where practicable, statistical techniques be applied to the review of the results.
12 NIST Handbook 150-11:2013

5.9.2 The laboratory shall have a plan for monitoring the quality control activities performed. These 

activities are to be planned so that a minimum of one activity per year is performed, ensuring that each 

ECT category (reference section 1.3) of a laboratory’s scope of accreditation is covered within four years.

5.9.3 Laboratories shall participate in proficiency testing when NVLAP announces plans to conduct a 

proficiency test.

5.9.4 The laboratory shall evaluate the quality monitoring results against the predefined criteria. The 

laboratory shall follow NIST Handbook 150, 4.9 for the control of nonconforming work, as well as 

section 4.11 for corrective action (where appropriate), whenever outliers are identified.

5.10 Reporting the results

There are no requirements additional to those set forth in NIST Handbook 150. Test methods, standards, 

specifies, customers, and regulators may have special reporting requirements. 

6 Additional requirements

There are no additional requirements beyond NIST Handbook 150 and its associated normative annexes, 

and any other normative references cited in this handbook.
NIST Handbook 150-11:2013 13

Annex A

(informative)

Information about selected ECT standards

.

Names, acronyms, and national economies of standards-issuing bodies for common ECT standards

Name of standard or standards body Acronym National economy 

American National Standards Institute ANSI United States

Association of Radio Industries and 

Businesses ARIB Japan

ASTM International (formerly American 

Standards and Testing Materials) ASTM United States

Australian Communications and Media 

Authority ACMA Australia

Australian Communications Industry Forum ACIF Australia

Australian Standard/New Zealand Standard AS/NZS Australia and New Zealand

British National standard BN United Kingdom

British Standard BS United Kingdom

Broadcasting Equipment Technical Standards BETS Canada

Bureau of Standards, Metrology and 

Inspection BSMI Taiwan

Canadian Standards Association CSA Canada

Chinese National Standards CNS Taiwan

Comité European de Normalisation 

Electrotechnique (European Committee for 

Electrotechnical Standardization)

CENELEC European Union

Directorate General of Telecommunications DGT Taiwan

Electronic Industries Alliance EIA United States

Environmental Protection Agency Energy 

Star EPA Energy Star United States

European Norms (European Standards) EN European Union

European Telecommunications Standards 

Institute ETS or ETSI European Union

Federal Communications Commission FCC United States

Federal Transit Administration (formerly the 

Urban Mass Transportation Administration) FTA United States

General Requirement (see Network 

Equipment Building System) GR

Hong Kong Telecommunications Authority HKTA Hong Kong

Infocomm Development Authority IDA Singapore
14 NIST Handbook 150-11:2013

Name of standard or standards body Acronym National economy 

Institute of Electrical and Electronics 

Engineers, Inc. IEEE

Interference-Causing Equipment Standard ICES Canada

International Electrotechnical Commission IEC

International Organization for Standardization ISO

International Telecommunications Union –

Telecommunication Standardization Sector ITU-T

Korea Communications Commission KCC Korea

Korean Norms KN Korea

Korean Standards KS Korea

Military Standards MIL-STD United States

Ministry of Information and Communication MIC Korea

Network Equipment Building System NEBS United States

Public Land Mobile Network PLMN Taiwan

Public Switched Telephone Network PSTN Taiwan

Radio Standards Specification RSS Canada

Radio Telecommunications Terminal 

Equipment RTTE Taiwan

RTCA (formerly Radio Technical 

Commission for Aeronautics) RTCA United States

SEMI SEMI

Society of Automotive Engineers, Inc. SAE United States

Special International Committee on Radio 

Interference (see also IEC) CISPR

Telecommunications Industry Association TIA United States

Underwriters Laboratories, Inc. UL United States

Urban Mass Transportation Administration 

(now the Federal Transit Administration) UMTA United States

VCCI Council VCCI Japan