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Scope of Certification with changing org structure

Discussion in 'ISO 17025 - Calibration and Test Laboratories' started by KMerrill, Jan 15, 2019.

  1. KMerrill

    KMerrill New Member

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    Hello, I have exhausted my Googling skills and hope someone can assist. We have a Lab with a current 17025 accreditation with A2LA. There is an organizational change that has been proposed that would split the reporting structure of the current lab personnel from reporting into one division and providing testing to other division to dividing the Lab personnel and reporting structure between the two divisions. The split begins at the "Lab Management" level with the expectation that each division have their own Quality Manager, Lab Manager, Engineers, and Technicians. Changes to the processes are currently not being proposed.

    To make sure it's clear....
    Division 1 has 30 employees that provide test results and services to both Division 1 and Division 2 projects.

    Proposal:
    Division 1 would have 15 employees that provide test results and services to Division 1 projects.
    Division 2 would gain 15 employees that provide test results and services to Division 2 projects.

    Would Division 2 need to pursue its own certification if all else remains the same (same procedures, same equipment, same training requirements)? Or would Division 2 need a new certification because the management structure has changed? Is the certification against a process or an organizational structure or the combination of the two?

    Thank you.
     
  2. Andy Nichols

    Andy Nichols Moderator Staff Member

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    Have you contacted A2LA for their input on this matter? It should be discussed with them so that they understand this change, anyways, you'll get an opportunity to understand any constraints they may apply to you, or anything which may affect their decisions. We can speculate, but a key player needs to hear it directly from you.
     
    John C. Abnet and KMerrill like this.
  3. Andy Nichols

    Andy Nichols Moderator Staff Member

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    BTW - when you do talk to them, remember it's accreditation NOT certification to ISO/IEC 17025
     
  4. John C. Abnet

    John C. Abnet Well-Known Member

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    Welcome to the site @KMerrill . You pose a great question. If you don't mind, please let us know how your accreditation body replies to this.

    Thanks.