Living with multiple standards – QA in a multidisciplinary laboratory

Abstract The paper describes the experiences of a medium-sized analytical laboratory in implementing and developing a quality system compliant with several standards. The effect of the laboratory's changing role and work pattern on the quality system are considered. The laboratory costs are explored. The laboratory's particular experiences are shown to be consistent with recent market research in the United Kingdom. Some of the factors a laboratory needs to consider in formulating a quality strategy are described, including the possibility of joint assessments. Also, possible courses of development of the standards themselves are suggested. These developments could simplify the existing situation where laboratories are forced into a quality approach based on multiple standards and assessment.