Candidate laboratories apply to the AAPM for accreditation. Steps in that process include submittal of an application with supporting information, review of the laboratory procedures manual (also called the quality manual), proficiency test by NIST, on-site assessment by peer assessors, resolution of deficiencies (if any), and final review and decision.

The program is administered by the Regional Calibration Laboratories Accreditation Subcommittee of the Therapy Committee of the AAPM. The Subcommittee performs assessments of applicant laboratories and recommends accreditations, subject to concurrence by the Therapy Committee and Science Council of the AAPM.

Important characteristics of the program are as follows:

• Scope: Calibration of therapeutic and diagnostic instruments using gamma rays, x rays, electrons and beta particles. Calibration of brachytherapy sources and instruments, for which AAPM-approved procedures for accreditation exist.

• Levels of Accreditation: Secondary (i.e., one step removed from NIST, which is the national primary level).

• Period of Accreditation: Five years, renewable for additional five -year periods following a positive review from site visit team.

• Proficiency Testing: Performed annually. On alternate years the ADCLs perform a round-robin intercomparison, which may or may not include NIST.

• Criteria: AAPM documents - ``Guidelines for Accreditation of Dosimetry Calibration Laboratories (for Ionization Chamber Instruments) by the AAPM'' November 1989 and ``Guidelines for Accreditation of Dosimetry Calibration Laboratories (for Brachytherapy Calibrations) of the AAPM'' August 1992.

• On-Site Assessment: Conducted before initial accreditation and, thereafter, on a five year cycle. A change in personnel, laboratory operations or management may necessitate a more rapid site visit. Assessors are technical peers; usually includes one assessor from NIST and at least one from another of the ADCLs.

• Fees: At cost, based on the requested scope of accreditation.

Contacts

NIST:

Stephen M. Seltzer, (301) 975-5552

email: stephen.seltzer@nist.gov

American Association of Physicists in Medicine