4.1 The radiation industry needs reliable, prompt dosimetry calibration services to support accurate measurements of absorbed dose. These measurements should be consistent with, and traceable to, the physical measurement standards maintained by an appropriate national or international standards laboratory. Organizations that provide calibration services, and thereby serve as a link to national standards, include universities, government-owned laboratories, and private companies.

4.2 To ensure the provision of adequate services, a calibration laboratory should be operating with a full measurement quality assurance (MQA) plan. The fundamental requirements for such a program include:

4.2.1 compliance with operational requirements of this practice and those of ISO/IEC 17025,

4.2.2 documented procedures and in-house quality assurance (QA) program specific to the calibration services provided, and

4.2.3 periodic performance evaluations, including proficiency tests and on-site expert assessments.5

4.3 When a calibration laboratory applies for accreditation, the accreditation organization (see Annex A1) determines whether the laboratory's quality documentation is satisfactory, performs proficiency tests for each calibration category for which accreditation is requested, and provides technical experts for on-site assessments to determine whether the laboratory meets the criteria of this practice, the accreditation organization and those of ISO/IEC 17025.

4.4 Section 5 sets forth specific criteria for laboratories engaged in dosimetry calibrations involving ionizing radiation, that is, gamma-radiation, electron beams and X-radiation (bremsstrahlung) beams. This section amplifies and interprets the general requirements of ISO/IEC 17025.

1.1 This practice addresses the specific requirements forlaboratories engaged in dosimetry calibrations involving ionizingradiation, namely, gamma-radiation, electron beams or X-radiation(bremsstrahlung) beams. It specifically describes the requirementsfor the characterization and performance criteria to be met by ahigh-dose radiation dosimetry calibration laboratory.

1.2 The absorbed-dose range is typically between 10 and 10Gy.

1.3 This practice addresses criteria for laboratories seekingaccreditation for performing high-dose dosimetry calibrations, andis a supplement to the general requirements accreditationorganization.

1.3.1 By meeting these criteria dn those in ISO/IEC 17025, thelaboratory may be accredited by a recognized accreditationorganization.

1.3.2. Adherence to these criteria will help to ensure highstandards of performance and instill confidence regarding thecompetency of the accredited laboratory with respect to theservices it offers.

1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safetyconcerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibilityof the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety andhealthy practices and determine the applicability of regulatorylimitations prior to use.