Today, six ASTM International programs that help petroleum labs evaluate, improve, and document performance in conducting test methods achieved accreditation from a globally-recognized organization. 

Specifically, the American Association for Laboratory Accreditation (A2LA) gave accreditation status to ASTM International’s proficiency testing programs (PTP) in:
•    automatic transmission fluid,
•    engine oil lubricants,
•    fuel ethanol,
•    gear oil,
•    industrial gear oil, and
•    petroleum wax.

Per A2LA, ASTM International’s programs meet internationally-acceptable planning, technical, and management requirements.

“Labs that turn to us to help monitor their strengths and weaknesses can now have increased confidence knowing that our programs meet strict competency standards,” says Tim Brooke, vice president of laboratory services at ASTM International.

Programs accredited through A2LA are assessed against criteria from a key standard: Conformity Assessment - General Requirements for Proficiency Testing (ISO/IEC 17043:2010).
ASTM International completed a rigorous application and assessment process to achieve accreditation.

As a result of today’s announcement, ASTM International will build on the 5,000 labs worldwide that its PTP program already serves, helping them document the evaluation and monitoring of their service capabilities.  This is a required component for labs seeking their own accreditation. 

Overall, ASTM International’s PTP program has more than 50 statistical quality assurance programs that have been built over the past 80 years.

A2LA is the only independent, internationally-recognized accreditation body in the U.S. that offers a full range of comprehensive laboratory and laboratory-related accreditation services and training.

To learn more, contact ptp@astm.org or visit www.astm.org/ptp.

Learn more about ASTM International’s leadership in the petroleum industry in this video.

Media Contact: Dan Bergels, tel +1.610.832.9602; dbergels@astm.org
Staff Contact: Amy Meacock, tel +1.610.832.9688; ameacock@astm.org

Release #10307