1.1 This guide describes the essential activities that are required to establish and operate a quality management system in a laboratory or organization that provides services in sample collection, sample preparation, or testing of coal, coke, or combustion residues from coal and coke.

The word "laboratory" is used throughout this guide when referring to an organization that provides services in coal sampling or testing, or both. It is recognized, however, that the word may not be appropriate to an organization that does not perform actual laboratory sample testing.

1.2 The principles of this guide are suggested as being the minimum acceptable requirements for the management of quality in a coal or coke sampling or testing organization, although some elements may not be necessary or appropriate for organizations that provide limited services.

1.3 Laboratories meeting the requirements of this guide may or may not meet the requirements of the ISO 9000 series of standards.

An accrediting body may also impose other nontechnical requirements such as payment of fees or submittal of quality documentation for review.

1.4 This guide is based upon many of the issues presented in Guide E 548. The user may also consult Guide E 882 for other items that may be pertinent. ISO Guide 25 has also been extensively consulted.

1.5 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.