The testing and inspection of concrete and concrete aggregates are important elements in obtaining quality construction. A testing laboratory specializing in these services must be selected with care.

A testing laboratory shall be deemed qualified to perform and report the results of its tests if the laboratory meets the requirements of this practice. The testing laboratory services shall be provided under the technical direction of a registered professional engineer.

This practice establishes essential characteristics pertaining to the organization, personnel, facilities, and quality systems of the laboratory. This practice may be supplemented by more specific criteria and requirements for particular projects.

1.1 This practice identifies and defines the duties, responsibilities, and minimum technical requirements of testing laboratory personnel and the minimum technical requirements for laboratory equipment utilized in testing concrete and concrete aggregates for use in construction.

1.2 This practice provides criteria for the evaluation of the capability of a testing laboratory to perform designated ASTM test methods on concrete and concrete aggregates. It can be used by an evaluation authority in the inspection or accreditation of a laboratory or by other parties to determine if the laboratory is qualified to conduct the specified tests.

Note 1—Specification E 329 provides criteria for the evaluation of laboratories that perform the inspection of concrete during placement.

1.3 If the laboratory requires external technical services to conduct tests, the external agency shall be subject to separate evaluation.

1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.