nist special publication 815 directory of state and local government laboratory accreditation designation programs charles w hyer editor standards services division technology national institute gaithersburg md 20899 2100 supersedes spec publ 1991 edition january 2003 ii foreward this is a guide to similar types conducted by agencies these accredit or designate laboratories other entities conduct testing assist the in carrying out their responsibilities such based on some type assessment regarding capability however nature assessments varies considerably from agency related efforts provide assurance technical proficiency competence an entity assess product s service conformance set prescribed many sectors economy may be interested for variety economic procurement safety considerations mutual acceptance test results between states jurisdictions at international levels can also serve as basis increased opportunities