: Standardized processes for internal audits and management reviews to identify and fix non-conformities. Purpose & Benefits of Implementation
: Documentation of the laboratory’s legal name, ownership, and an organization chart that clearly defines roles and responsibilities. Amrl Quality Management Systems Manual
: Ensuring all measurements are linked back to national or international standards (such as NIST ) through an unbroken chain of comparisons. : Standardized processes for internal audits and management
The (now primarily managed under the AASHTO re:source program) serves as the primary framework for construction materials testing laboratories to establish operational consistency and technical accuracy. It is largely governed by the AASHTO R 18 standard, which outlines the essential management and technical requirements for accreditation. Core Components of the QMS Manual The (now primarily managed under the AASHTO re:source
Implementing this manual is not just a regulatory hurdle; it provides a roadmap for long-term laboratory excellence. Procedure Checklist AASHTO R-18: Quality Systems Manual
: Procedures for preparing, revising, and ensuring the most current test methods are accessible to staff.