Laboratories rely on accurate, repeatable and traceable test results to support product quality, regulatory compliance and operational safety. Routine verification of laboratory instruments plays a vital role in maintaining confidence in those results.

Stanhope-Seta is pleased to announce the expansion of its UKAS ISO 17034 accreditation, with the addition of five new Certified Reference Materials (CRMs) for flash point and Water Separation Index (WSI) testing. The expanded range provides laboratories with a wider choice of traceable verification materials, helping support routine instrument verification, ISO 17025 Quality Management Systems and ongoing confidence in laboratory measurements.

Supporting confidence in laboratory results

Certified Reference Materials are used by laboratories to ensure compliance and traceability when conducting calibration and verification activities on measurement systems. Ultimately reducing the overall risk to laboratory operations.

Unlike routine samples, CRMs are characterised using recognised measurement procedures defined within ISO 17034, and supplied with certified values and supporting documentation, allowing laboratories to demonstrate traceability and confidence in their verification processes.

Routine use of CRMs helps laboratories:

• Verify instrument performance
• Support ISO 17025 Quality Management Systems (QMS)
• Demonstrate measurement traceability
• Meet method verification requirements
• Preparation for internal and external audits
• Improve confidence in reported data
• Faster fault finding
• Train new laboratory personnel

Expanded ISO 17034 range

The latest scope extension includes five new Certified Reference Materials covering recognised international test methods.

Each Certified Reference Material is manufactured under Stanhope-Seta’s UKAS ISO 17034 accreditation and supplied with an ISO 17034 Certificate and Safety Data Sheet (SDS).

A complete verification solution

Stanhope-Seta is uniquely positioned as both an instrument manufacturer and an ISO 17034 accredited producer of Certified Reference Materials.

By developing CRMs specifically for recognised international test methods, we can provide laboratories with complete verification solutions that support the full lifecycle of their laboratory equipment, from installation and calibration through to routine verification and ongoing quality assurance.

This integrated approach simplifies purchasing, provides confidence in product compatibility and gives laboratories access to technical support from the same team that develops both the instruments and the associated verification materials.

Supporting key test methods

The expanded CRM range supports a number of internationally recognised methods used across the petroleum, fuels, aviation and chemical industries, including:

• ASTM D7094 – Modified Continuously Closed Cup Flash Point
• IP 170; BS EN ISO 13736; BS 2000-170 – Abel Flash Point
• ASTM D56 – Tag Closed Cup Flash Point
• ASTM D8073; IP 624 – Water Separation Index (WSI)

These methods are widely used within refinery laboratories, aviation fuel testing, chemical manufacturing, quality control laboratories and independent testing facilities.

Why ISO 17034 matters

ISO 17034 is the international standard that specifies the competence requirements for Reference Material Producers (RMP).

For laboratories, purchasing CRMs from an ISO 17034 accredited producer provides confidence that the reference material has been produced using independently assessed procedures and supplied with certified values supported by appropriate documentation.

When combined with routine verification procedures, ISO 17034 Certified Reference Materials help laboratories maintain confidence in instrument performance while supporting compliance with ISO 17025 quality systems.

Support beyond instrument installation

Laboratory instruments require ongoing verification throughout their operational life.

Routine use of Certified Reference Materials enables laboratories to monitor instrument performance, investigate unexpected results, support operator training and demonstrate continuing confidence in measurement quality.

As quality standard place increasing emphasis on traceability and quality assurance, routine verification is becoming an integral part of laboratory best practice.

Learn more

To learn more about the range, including product specifications, supported test methods and related laboratory instruments, visit our dedicated Reference Materials website or contact our team to discuss the most appropriate verification material for your application.