We recently received feedback from AASHTO re:source regarding assessor access to a laboratory’s Quality Manual (QM). They received a request from a user of R18LabQMS and asked if they could log in to their account and dig through and find all their supporting documentation for resolution of non-conformities.
Assessor access
The purpose of “Assessor Access” to your QM is to verify that your laboratory is following the guidelines of AASHTO R18 before and during the assessment only. Most assessors appreciate the opportunity to review your QM prior to coming on-site, this saves everyone a significant amount of time and is a more efficient process.
After the on-site assessment
If your laboratory received non-conformities during the on-site assessment, you will be required to resolve them in a timely manner. At this point, you will be working with a quality analyst and may be required to provide supporting documentation that must be provided by the laboratory. All AASHTO re:source-accredited laboratories have log in access to their accounts where all non-conformities are resolved and must upload into their system for review.
Recent user questions and comments
Q: How do I indicate a piece of equipment in my inventory as a measurement standard, also can that information be incorporated within an equipment procedure form?
A: Indicating a piece of equipment as a measurement standard is done in one of two ways. When adding a new piece of equipment into your inventory, at the bottom of the form click the button (slider) “used as measurement standard (reference equipment)” – that’s it. To edit an existing piece of equipment, simply click view, click the “edit info and procedures” tab. By doing this it will be highlighted within your inventory and Quality Manual in section 6.1.1.
When adding reference equipment to an equipment procedure you will find as a default element for all procedures “measurement standard.” If it’s listed as such in your inventory it will appear on the drop-down.
Resources
Training and informational videos that include version updates, R18LabQMS demos and more.
R18LabQMS has a knowledge base
Accessible from the dashboard within the application, top right “help.”
Training Opportunities
Once you work through the setup process, the following links can be found in the lower right-hand corner of the application;
• Support
• R18 Blog
• WebEx – Additional training, please let us know and we can set this up.
• Onsite Training – Fee-based, please inquire.
Upcoming industry meetings ASTM we will be attending
Title: D04 Road and Paving Materials
Dates: Tuesday, June 26, 2018 – Thursday, June 28, 2018
Title: Committee on Materials and Pavements (COMP)
Dates: Sunday, August 5 – Friday, August 10, 2018
For all questions regarding your quality management system, whether your lab is accredited or not, please contact us and learn how R18LabQMS can add value to your company.
– Gary Irvine
R18LabQMS Program Manager