scope:

This Standard applies to environmental analytical laboratories carrying out testing associated with the measurement of chemical, radiochemical, biological, toxicological and physical characteristics of environmental samples

Note: Toxicological characteristics, as used in the above context, exclude characteristics determined by mammalian effects testing

This Standard sets out the general requirements which an environmental analytical laboratory must meet, if it is to be recognized as competent to carry out specific tests

This Standard is for use by environmental analytical laboratories in the development and implementation of their quality systems It may also be used by accreditation bodies and others concerned with the competence of environmental laboratories

Additional requirements and information which have to be disclosed for assessing competence or for determining compliance with other criteria may be specified by the organization or authority granting the recognition, depending upon the specific character of the task of the laboratory