Technical Resources
NATA Test Reports Explained
What About Calibration Certificates?
Calibration certificates (calibration reports) must, where necessary, include the following to assist in the interpretation of calibration results:
a) the conditions (e.g. environmental) under which the calibrations were made that have an influence on the measurement results;
b) the uncertainty of measurement and/or a statement of compliance with an identified metrological specification or clauses thereof;
c) evidence that the measurements are traceable.
The calibration certificate must relate only to quantities and the results of functional tests. If a statement of compliance with a specification is made, this must identify which clauses of the specification are met or not met.
When statements of compliance are made, the uncertainty of measurement must also be taken into account in the decision making process.
When an instrument for calibration has been adjusted or repaired, the calibration results before and after adjustment or repair, if available, must be reported.
A calibration certificate (or calibration label) should not contain any recommendation on the calibration interval except where this has been agreed with the client. In some instances, this may also be superseded by legal regulations.
Who Signs the Report?
An endorsed report must only be signed by a NATA approved signatory. (Please note, different fields and programs may have different requirements and expressions to describe this function.) These are staff nominated by the laboratory who have been evaluated by NATA as being able to take responsibility for the accuracy and technical validity of all the information contained in the report. They must be fully familiar with the relevant laboratory procedures, sampling methods and any inherent problems or concerns likely to be associated with the data being reported. They have the final responsibility for the release of the report and can, if required, reject inadequate reports.
In general, approved signatories are expected to apply their signatures manually. The use of photographic, electronic and mechanical means of reproduction of signatures or names of signatories is allowed with the approval of NATA.
What if There is No Endorsement on the Report?
An accredited laboratory may issue unendorsed reports showing results that are both within and outside its scope of accreditation. Such reports do not show the NATA logo, reference to the accreditation or any other reference to NATA. However, unendorsed reports, and the associated tests or calibrations within the scope of accreditation, are expected to be of the same standard as required of endorsed reports.
Can a Laboratory Give Me a Preliminary Report?
In circumstances where permitted by NATA, accredited facilities can issue preliminary reports prior to the final endorsed report. However, the final report must contain a reference to the preliminary report.
What About Reports from Verifying Authorities?
Some NATA laboratories have been appointed as Verifying Authorities (VA) by the National Standards Commission (NSC). Reports from these laboratories must also comply with the reporting requirements of the NSC where relevant. Recipients of such reports should contact NSC if they have any concerns about the content of the report or about the current requirements relating to VA status.
What if the Laboratory has Sub-Contracted the Testing or Calibration to Another Laboratory?
When the report contains results of tests performed by subcontractors, these results should be clearly identified. When a calibration has been subcontracted, the laboratory performing the work must issue the calibration certificate to the contracting laboratory.
What if the Laboratory Wishes to Amend My Test Reports or Calibration Certificate?
Material amendments to a test report or calibration certificate after they have been issued to you must be made only in the form of a further document, or data transfer, which includes the statement:
"Supplement to Test Report [or Calibration Certificate], serial number ... [or as otherwise identified]",
or an equivalent form of wording.
When it is necessary for the laboratory to issue a complete new test report or calibration certificate, they must uniquely identify the new report and include a reference to the original that it replaces.
Where Can I Get More Information?
If you have any further questions about a Test Report, Calibration or Inspection Certificate you have received from a NATA accredited facility, please do not hesitate to contact Epsilon Instrumentation or NATA's Manager Technical and Corporate Development.
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