UKAS Accreditation For Somerset Scientific Services
Somerset Scientific Services have once again received their UK Accreditation Service (UKAS) accreditations for asbestos inspection and water and asbestos testing. This is an absolute essential for our team, who are committed to providing services of the highest standard. We’re so proud of their hard work and dedication, and that it has been recognised by the inspectors. Having an external monitor is a great opportunity to review our processes and standards, and it’s gratifying to be endorsed by such a respected body.
Who Are UKAS?
UKAS is the sole national accreditation body for the United Kingdom. UKAS assesses, against internationally agreed standards, organisations that provide certification, testing, inspection and calibration services. Accreditation by UKAS demonstrates competence, impartiality and performance capability in these areas. In short, UKAS ‘checks the checkers’.
What does the UKAS inspection cover?
While we receive an interim inspection every year, this was the full and in-depth inspection that concludes the four year accreditation cycle. The 3 UKAS inspectors spent 3 days assessing the service at the end of October. The aim of the visit was to assess the conformity of chemistry and asbestos related activities with the administrative and technical requirements of ISO/IEC17025:2005 and ISO/IEC17020:2012. Their report covered organisational structure, management, technical competence, evaluation processes as well as impartiality and integrity. Our staff were observed carrying out lab work, paperwork was audited and our processes were scrutinised. From our customer feedback system to our corporate policies, no stone was left unturned to ensure that everything met the exacting standards required!
What does this mean for our customers?
UKAS accreditation is a vital requirement for many of our clients, particularly in our work for schools and local authorities. Many of our smaller clients may not be aware of UKAS, or consider it when looking for a local lab service. Nonetheless, we apply the same high standards to all our clients, large or small, commercial, public or private. Having UKAS accreditation means our clients can be assured that our methods are sound, our reporting is accurate and our organisation is reputable.
What Services Are UKAS Accredited?
Somerset Scientific Services have UKAS inspection accreditation for asbestos management, refurbishment and demolition surveys. Our asbestos laboratory work is accredited for fibre counts, air samples, 4 stage clearance process and sampling of bulk materials to identify asbestos fibres. Our water laboratory work is accredited for chemical testing of ground waters, process waters, raw and potable waters.
Visit our Water and Asbestos pages for more information about our range of services and packages. Get in touch with the team via our contact page to discuss your needs and to get a quote.