AASHTO R18
Full Name
AASHTO R18 – Standard Recommended Practice for Establishing and Implementing a Quality Management System for Construction Materials Testing Laboratories
Scope
AASHTO R18 is a comprehensive guideline for construction materials testing (CMT) laboratories to establish and maintain a robust Quality Management System (QMS). The QMS serves as a framework to ensure the accuracy, reliability, and consistency of test results, ultimately contributing to the safety and quality of infrastructure projects.
Key aspects of AASHTO R18:
- Scope: AASHTO R18 applies to specific testing areas: soil, aggregate, asphalt, hydraulic cement, concrete, masonry, metals, plastic pipe, and sprayed fire-resistive materials. It does not encompass all aspects of laboratory operations, focusing on technical competence and quality assurance.
- Management responsibility: the standard emphasizes the importance of top management commitment to quality, outlining their roles in establishing policies, objectives, and resources for the QMS.
- Documentation: R18 requires a well-documented QMS, including a quality manual, procedures, work instructions, and records. This documentation ensures traceability and consistency in testing processes.
- Technical requirements: the standard addresses the technical competence of laboratory personnel, equipment calibration and maintenance, test method validation, and the use of certified reference materials.
- Internal audits: regular internal audits are essential to verify the effectiveness of the QMS and identify areas for improvement.
- Corrective and preventive actions: AASHTO R18 outlines procedures for addressing nonconformities and implementing corrective and preventive actions to prevent recurrence.
Significance of AASHTO R18:
- Quality assurance: by implementing a QMS based on AASHTO R18, laboratories can demonstrate their commitment to quality and ensure the reliability of their test results.
- Accreditation: AASHTO R18 is the basis for the AASHTO Accreditation Program (AAP), which provides formal recognition of a laboratory’s competence and compliance with quality standards.
- Customer confidence: accreditation based on AASHTO R18 enhances customer confidence in the laboratory’s services and results.
- Continual improvement: the QMS promotes a culture of continual improvement, leading to enhanced efficiency, effectiveness, and customer satisfaction.
AASHTO R18 Accredited Laboratory
Our laboratory is accredited by the AASHTO Accreditation Program, demonstrating our commitment to quality and adherence to the rigorous requirements of AASHTO R18. We are dedicated to providing accurate, reliable, and timely testing services that meet the needs of our clients and contribute to the success of their projects.
Contact us for more information.
Resources
Keywords
quality management system; quality manual; test method; laboratory; accreditation; competence; calibration; validation; documentation; nonconformance; corrective action; preventive action; internal audit; management review; continual improvement