Accreditation to ISO/IEC 17025 and AS6171: A General Overview

Travis Johnson [ANAB]

 

Abstract: 

For years, the aerospace community has needed to reduce or eliminate counterfeit components in its supply chain. Part of this effort was the formation of SAE’s G-19A initiative which in turn led to the development of the of SAE’s AS 6171 (for testing labs) and AS 6810 (for accreditation bodies). Laboratories seeking accreditation to AS 6171 will do so by applying for ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation and the AS 6171 requirements. Additionally, the scope of accreditation will include whichever test methods/slash sheets the lab chooses to include.

The goal through accreditation is the increased acceptance of test results across all industries and improving the quality of testing laboratories and the data they produce. Laboratory accreditation has a long history of acceptance internationally and nationally from government and industries such as clinical, chemical, construction, automotive, aerospace, electrical, food, and pharmaceutical.

The purpose of AS6171 is to standardize practices to detect suspect counterfeit electrical, electronic, and electromechanical (EEE) parts and to ensure consistency of test techniques and requirements across the supply chain. The assessment detailed in the SAE AS6171 standard determines the types of defects detected using a specified test plan so the lab can provide a certificate of conformance to the end user.

This discussion will cover the application process to ISO/IEC 17025 with AS 6171 and an overview of how the accreditation works. This will include how to engage an accreditation body and what is required to apply. Overview topics will cover requirements surrounding the quality manual, proficiency testing, traceability, assessor and lab personnel competence, and other key elements. The discussion will also include how the accreditation assessment will layer the AS 6171 requirements with the ISO/IEC 17025 requirements.

Biography: 

Travis Johnson [ANAB]

Travis Johnson has accumulated over 15 years of experience, showcasing a diverse career in the fields of quality engineering, research, and testing. Currently serving as the Senior Accreditation Manager at ANSI National Accreditation Board/ANAB, he has been in this role for the past 10 months. Prior to his current position, Travis spent a significant portion of his career, spanning over a decade, with DePuy Synthes Companies. Here, he held various roles, including Team Leader Biomechanical Testing, Staff Research & Test Engineer, and Senior Quality Engineer. Travis's career journey reflects a robust background in quality management, research, and leadership within the medical and engineering sectors.