Testing of materials and manufactured items is a key element in the process from standard specification through control and verification during manufacture to trade in actual products. In particular, the validity, reliability and economic aspects of testing are of importance. This process is becoming more urgent with the development of the European market and other developments in international trade. Considerable progress is being made in setting up cooperative agreements and networks both bilaterally and multilaterally between countries, covering reference materials, and calibration, accreditation and quality assurance of laboratories, equipment and staff. This book contains invited contributions from many of the individuals and organizations most closely involved in these international developments. Also included are papers and case studies from all parts of the world discussing particular aspects of test quality of construction, materials and structures. The volume should be useful for those responsible for managing and carrying out testing in commercial, industrial and research laboratories, and also for anyone with an interest in international harmonization of technical stand

Testing of materials and manufactured items is a key element in the process from standard specifications though control and verification during manufacture to trade in actual products. Cooperative agreements and networks are being set up covering reference materials and calibration. This process is becoming more urgent with the development in the European market and other international developments. This book presents international views on this fast changing field, with the main themes of: technical components of test quality; quality assurance in testing laboratories; laboratory accreditation and transnational recognition of test results.