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The CCMC is not a testing organization. Testing is performed by laboratories recognized by the CCMC for that particular test method. The test results provided to the CCMC by the laboratory are examined by a CCMC evaluation officer who compares the results of testing to the performance requirements established in the Technical Guide or Evaluation Directive.
Note: Testing should not begin until a signed contract is in place with the CCMC and the Evaluation Officer has so advised. This is to ensure that the testing protocol meets CCMC requirements.
Laboratory Recognition
In recognizing laboratories for the purposes of conducting testing either against its customized performance criteria, for innovative products, or against standards, for established products, the CCMC uses the following guideline:
Standardized Tests
For products for which standardized tests exist, the CCMC will recognize:
- laboratories accredited by the Standards Council of Canada (SCC)* for that particular test
- non-accredited laboratories whose test reports are endorsed by an SCC-accredited laboratory for that test. The non-accredited laboratory must not have previously been refused accreditation for the particular test and is normally expected to start proceedings within six months to become accredited for that test
- laboratories that are accredited in a related field by the SCC, but not accredited for that particular test. This applies in instances when no laboratory is presently accredited for that test. A self-recognition statement is required from the laboratory indicating that it considers itself capable of carrying out the test to the same quality control requirements as those imposed by SCC accreditation. The laboratory must agree to start proceedings within six months to become accredited for that test.
- Canadian research laboratories sponsored or funded by federal or provincial governments, where the laboratory has the related expertise.
Non-Standardized Tests
For products requiring non-standardized tests, the CCMC will recognize:
- laboratories accredited by the SCC in other areas, and Canadian university laboratories. A self-recognition statement, and an agreement to become accredited if another laboratory becomes accredited to perform that test, are also required.
- Canadian research laboratories sponsored or funded by the federal or provincial governments, where the laboratory has the related expertise.
Other laboratories may also qualify for recognition to perform certain tests.
* For the purposes of this guideline, reference to SCC-accredited laboratories includes laboratories accredited by foreign accreditation bodies that have entered into mutual-recognition agreements with the SCC. The CCMC retains the right to verify that these laboratories have the capabilities of meeting our needs.
