Accredited laboratories: how they work and the benefits for businesses

Stalab is an accredited laboratory, but what does that actually mean? In this article, we explain what an accredited laboratory is, how it operates, the accreditation process and why this status serves as a guarantee of quality and safety for the companies that choose our services.

Accreditation means that a laboratory has received formal recognition from an accreditation body. In Italy, this body is Accredia, though several other international accreditation agencies exist.

Accreditation certifies that a laboratory possesses the technical competence, rigorous procedures and quality management systems necessary to ensure reliable and precise results. To maintain this status, the laboratory undergoes periodic inspections by the accreditation body to verify that all standards are consistently met.

A non-accredited laboratory has not received formal acceptance from an accreditation body and, therefore, is not obligated to follow recognized international standards. Consequently, the quality, competence and precision of its results are not systematically guaranteed. While such labs can still perform tests and analyses, their results may not hold the same international weight or legal standing as those from an accredited facility.

1. Initial preparation: the laboratory evaluates its own skills, facilities and processes to ensure they meet the necessary requirements
2. Training: staff must be trained on the specific quality standards and working methods required
3. Procedure alignment: the laboratory develops or updates its quality manuals, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and technical workflows.
4. Application for Accreditation: once compliant, the lab submits a formal application. This includes a description of activities, quality documentation, management systems and a detailed list (scope) of the specific tests or calibrations for which accreditation is sought.
5. On-site assessment (Inspection): the accreditation body schedules an audit. A team of inspectors examines:compliance with ISO standards (e.g., ISO/IEC 17025), equipment, testing methods and staff technical proficiency, traceability of results and record-keeping, workplace conditions and safety protocols
6. Final decision: if the laboratory meets all standards, the body issues a certificate of accreditation
7. Ongoing monitoring and surveillance: periodic surveillance visits are conducted to ensure the laboratory continues to uphold these high standards over time

• Non-conformities: these are issues identified during an inspection indicating that a requirement is not being met. They are divided into minor non-conformities (easily resolved with corrective actions) and major non-conformities (requiring detailed corrective action plan)
• Observations: these are minor anomalies or critical points that do not directly violate standards but highlight areas for improvement. Addressing these is considered best practice for process optimization.
• Comments: useful feedback or praise regarding good practices observed. These do not require action but serve as a guide for future enhancements

Accreditation is based on European and national standards verified by Accredia. For example, Stalab is accredited for EMC (Electromagnetic Compatibility) standards. Accredia verifies that our technicians follow these specific procedures to the letter.

Furthermore, accreditation is recognized internationally across the EU and the EEA (European Economic Area), facilitating the free movement of products without the need for redundant testing.

Relying on an accredited laboratory ensures that your test reports are recognized as evidence of competence and impartiality in international markets. Accredited bodies can use the official accreditation mark on their reports, providing several key advantages:

• Increased credibility with public authorities and regulatory bodies
• Guaranteed quality and safety in B2B (Business-to-Business) relationships
• Reduced border delays, facilitating the free movement of goods and services
• Enhanced trust from consumers, institutions and commercial partners

In conclusion, choosing an accredited laboratory allows companies to strengthen their reputation, gain easier market access and guarantee high standard of safety – ultimately increasing their competitiveness on both a national and international scale.