This Guide sets out the general requirements in accordance with which a laboratory has to demonstrate that it operates, if it is to be recognized as competent to carry out specific calibrations or tests. Additional requirements and information which have to be disclosed for assessing competence or for determining compliance with other criteria may be specified by the organization or authority granting the recognition (or approval), depending upon the specific character of the task of the laboratory. This Guide is for use by calibration and testing laboratories in the development and implementation of their quality systems. It may also be used by accreditation bodies, certification bodies and others concerned with the competence of laboratories.