Training Requirements for Laboratory Assessors

摘要

Accreditation of test & calibration laboratories is an important issue. ISO 9000 and ISO guide 25 have helped to harmonise the accreditation process. This needs to be supplemented by defining method of assessment and training for assessors. There is debate going around that why not utilise qualified assessors for quality management system ISO 9000 for assessment of laboratory quality system as well. It is to be considered whether it is good enough to be qualified assessor as per ISO-10011 to be empanelled as laboratory assessor ? Indian Institute of Quality Management, recently organised first 5-days training programme for Assessors used by India's National Accreditation Board for Laboratories (NABL). The programme was developed as per WELAC guidance document WGD5, ELA-G7. The paper outlines major differences between ISO 9000 & ISO guide 25 and accordingly suggests a 5-days training schedule for laboratory assessors. It also highlights, how an assessor for quality management system could be empanelled as laboratory assessors, for which it suggests a 2 days orientation curriculum.