Comparative analysis of laboratory accreditation in Bulgaria, Lithuania, Slovakia and Serbia and Montenegro

The development of an internationally recognized laboratory accreditation process, accompanied by a mutual recognition agreement (MRA), is an issue of great interest in Central and Eastern European countries. This paper presents a comparative analysis of laboratory accreditation in Bulgaria, Lithuania, Slovakia and Serbia and Montenegro. The basic analysis technique was preliminary laboratory accreditation assessment (PLAA). The analysis data were obtained via a questionnaire issued from January to June 2004, with the participation of accreditation bodies. Results from the study are presented in four sections: accreditation body standards, accreditation body organization, assessors and proficiency testing, and inter-laboratory comparisons. Research results for the countries were accessed using PLAA techniques and conformity/non conformity statements. The analysis verified that PLAA can provide low cost, rapid assessment of the key influencing factors in laboratory accreditation bodies.