Comparison of On-site Assessment of Testing and Inspection Laboratories

Abstract

The quality control of testing and inspection laboratories operated in Korea, the United States, and Canada was compared. The basic framework of on-site evaluation operated by each country was similar in terms of evaluation procedure, document evaluation, issuance of verification certificate, and follow-up management. For conducting on-site evaluation and granting the certificate, the preparation materials and evaluation processes are subdivided in Korea, while the dates of granting the certificate are restricted to four times a year in the United States. After receiving accreditation as a testing/inspection laboratories for the first time in Canada, follow-up management is divided into re-evaluation, verification evaluation, and monitoring evaluation.