Standard Recommended Practice for

Establishing and Implementing a Quality

Management System for Construction
Materials Testing Laboratories

AASHTO Designation: R 18-10 1

1. SCOPE
1.1. This document contains criteria and guidelines for establishing and implementing a quality
management system (QMS) for use by a construction materials laboratory (CML). These criteria
may also be used by laboratory-evaluating agencies.

1.2. The criteria in this document only apply to the following testing areas: soil, aggregate, asphalt
binder, cutback asphalt, emulsified asphalt, asphalt mixtures, hydraulic cement, portland cement
concrete, unit masonry, metals, plastic pipe, and sprayed fire-resistive material.

2. REFERENCED DOCUMENTS
2.1. AASHTO Standards:
 M 92, Wire-Cloth Sieves for Testing Purposes
 M 152, Flow Table for Use in Tests of Hydraulic Cement
 R 28, Accelerated Aging of Asphalt Binder Using a Pressurized Aging Vessel (PAV)
 R 59, Recovery of Asphalt from Solution by Abson Method
 R 61, Establishing Requirements for Equipment Calibrations, Standardizations, and Checks
 T 19, Bulk Density (“Unit Weight”) and Voids in Aggregate
 T 22, Compressive Strength of Cylindrical Concrete Specimens
 T 23, Making and Curing Concrete Test Specimens in the Field
 T 48, Flash and Fire Points by Cleveland Open Cup
 T 49, Penetration of Bituminous Materials
 T 50, Float Test for Bituminous Materials
 T 51, Ductility of Asphalt Materials
 T 53, Softening Point of Bitumen (Ring-and-Ball Apparatus)
 T 59, Emulsified Asphalts
 T 72, Saybolt Viscosity
 T 79, Flash Point with Tag Open-Cup Apparatus for Use with Material Having a Flash Point
Less Than 93ºC (200ºF)
 T 84, Specific Gravity and Absorption of Fine Aggregate
 T 88, Particle Size Analysis of Soils
 T 89, Determining the Liquid Limit of Soils
 T 96, Resistance to Degradation of Small-Size Coarse Aggregate by Abrasion and Impact in
the Los Angeles Machine

TS-AMRL R 18-1 AASHTO

© 2013 by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials.
All rights reserved. Duplication is a violation of applicable law.
  T 98, Fineness of Portland Cement by the Turbidimeter
 T 99, Moisture-Density Relations of Soils Using a 2.5-kg (5.5-lb) Rammer and a 305-mm
(12-in.) Drop
 T 100, Specific Gravity of Soils
 T 104, Soundness of Aggregate by Use of Sodium Sulfate or Magnesium Sulfate
 T 106, Compressive Strength of Hydraulic Cement Mortar (Using 50-mm or 2-in.
Cube Specimens)
 T 119, Slump of Hydraulic Cement Concrete
 T 121, Density (Unit Weight), Yield, and Air Content (Gravimetric) of Concrete
 T 129, Amount of Water Required for Normal Consistency of Hydraulic Cement Paste
 T 131, Time of Setting of Hydraulic Cement by Vicat Needle
 T 134, Moisture-Density Relations of Soil-Cement Mixtures
 T 135, Wetting-and-Drying Test of Compacted Soil-Cement Mixtures
 T 136, Freezing-and-Thawing Tests of Compacted Soil-Cement Mixtures
 T 137, Air Content of Hydraulic Cement Mortar
 T 152, Air Content of Freshly Mixed Concrete by the Pressure Method
 T 153, Fineness of Hydraulic Cement by Air Permeability Apparatus
 T 154, Time of Setting of Hydraulic Cement Paste by Gillmore Needles
 T 162, Mechanical Mixing of Hydraulic Cement Pastes and Mortars of Plastic Consistency
 T 167, Compressive Strength of Hot Mix Asphalt
 T 176, Plastic Fines in Graded Aggregates and Soils by Use of the Sand Equivalent Test
 T 179, Effect of Heat and Air on Asphalt Materials (Thin-Film Oven Test)
 T 180, Moisture-Density Relations of Soils Using a 4.54-kg (10-lb) Rammer and a 457-mm
(18-in.) Drop
 T 186, Early Stiffening of Hydraulic Cement (Paste Method)
 T 190, Resistance R-Value and Expansion Pressure of Compacted Soils
 T 192, Fineness of Hydraulic Cement by the 45-μm (No. 325) Sieve
 T 193, The California Bearing Ratio
 T 196, Air Content of Freshly Mixed Concrete by the Volumetric Method
 T 201, Kinematic Viscosity of Asphalts (Bitumens)
 T 202, Viscosity of Asphalts by Vacuum Capillary Viscometer
 T 209, Theoretical Maximum Specific Gravity (Gmm) and Density of Hot Mix Asphalt (HMA)
 T 228, Specific Gravity of Semi-Solid Asphalt Materials
 T 231, Capping Cylindrical Concrete Specimens
 T 240, Effect of Heat and Air on a Moving Film of Asphalt Binder (Rolling Thin-Film Oven
Test)
 T 245, Resistance to Plastic Flow of Bituminous Mixtures Using Marshall Apparatus
 T 246, Resistance to Deformation and Cohesion of Hot Mix Asphalt (HMA) by Means of
Hveem Apparatus
 T 247, Preparation of Test Specimens of Hot Mix Asphalt (HMA) by Means of California
Kneading Compactor
 T 300, Force Ductility Test of Asphalt Materials
 T 301, Elastic Recovery Test of Asphalt Materials by Means of a Ductilometer
 T 308, Determining the Asphalt Binder Content of Hot Mix Asphalt (HMA) by the
Ignition Method

TS-AMRL R 18-2 AASHTO

© 2013 by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials.
All rights reserved. Duplication is a violation of applicable law.
  T 312, Preparing and Determining the Density of Hot Mix Asphalt (HMA) Specimens by
Means of the Superpave Gyratory Compactor
 T 313, Determining the Flexural Creep Stiffness of Asphalt Binder Using the Bending Beam
Rheometer (BBR)
 T 314, Determining the Fracture Properties of Asphalt Binder in Direct Tension (DT)
 T 315, Determining the Rheological Properties of Asphalt Binder Using a Dynamic Shear
Rheometer (DSR)
 T 316, Viscosity Determination of Asphalt Binder Using Rotational Viscometer

2.2. ASTM Standards:

 C 29/C 29M, Standard Test Method for Bulk Density (“Unit Weight”) and Voids in
Aggregate
 C 31/C 31M, Standard Practice for Making and Curing Concrete Test Specimens in the Field
 C 39/C 39M, Standard Test Method for Compressive Strength of Cylindrical Concrete
Specimens
 C 67, Standard Test Methods for Sampling and Testing Brick and Structural Clay Tile
 C 88, Standard Test Method for Soundness of Aggregates by Use of Sodium Sulfate or
Magnesium Sulfate
 C 91/C 91M, Standard Specification for Masonry Cement
 C 109/C 109M, Standard Test Method for Compressive Strength of Hydraulic Cement
Mortars (Using 2-in. or [50-mm] Cube Specimens)
 C 115, Standard Test Method for Fineness of Portland Cement by the Turbidimeter
 C 128, Standard Test Method for Density, Relative Density (Specific Gravity), and
Absorption of Fine Aggregate
 C 131, Standard Test Method for Resistance to Degradation of Small-Size Coarse Aggregate
by Abrasion and Impact in the Los Angeles Machine
 C 138/C 138M, Standard Test Method for Density (Unit Weight), Yield, and Air Content
(Gravimetric) of Concrete
 C 143/C 143M, Standard Test Method for Slump of Hydraulic-Cement Concrete
 C 173/C 173M, Standard Test Method for Air Content of Freshly Mixed Concrete by the
Volumetric Method
 C 185, Standard Test Method for Air Content of Hydraulic Cement Mortar
 C 187, Standard Test Method for Amount of Water Required for Normal Consistency of
Hydraulic Cement Paste
 C 191, Standard Test Methods for Time of Setting of Hydraulic Cement by Vicat Needle
 C 204, Standard Test Methods for Fineness of Hydraulic Cement by Air-Permeability
Apparatus
 C 230/C 230M, Standard Specification for Flow Table for Use in Tests of Hydraulic Cement
 C 231/C 231M, Standard Test Method for Air Content of Freshly Mixed Concrete by the
Pressure Method
 C 266, Standard Test Method for Time of Setting of Hydraulic-Cement Paste by Gillmore
Needles
 C 305, Standard Practice for Mechanical Mixing of Hydraulic Cement Pastes and Mortars of
Plastic Consistency
 C 430, Standard Test Method for Fineness of Hydraulic Cement by the 45-μm (No. 325)
Sieve
 C 451, Standard Test Method for Early Stiffening of Hydraulic Cement (Paste Method)
 C 617/C 617M, Standard Practice for Capping Cylindrical Concrete Specimens

TS-AMRL R 18-3 AASHTO

© 2013 by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials.
All rights reserved. Duplication is a violation of applicable law.
  C 778, Standard Specification for Standard Sand
 C 1072, Standard Test Methods for Measurement of Masonry Flexural Bond Strength
 D 5/D 5M, Standard Test Method for Penetration of Bituminous Materials
 D 36/D 36M, Standard Test Method for Softening Point of Bitumen (Ring-and-Ball
Apparatus)
 D 70, Standard Test Method for Density of Semi-Solid Bituminous Materials (Pycnometer
Method)
 D 88, Standard Test Method for Saybolt Viscosity
 D 92, Standard Test Method for Flash and Fire Points by Cleveland Open Cup Tester
 D 113, Standard Test Method for Ductility of Bituminous Materials
 D 139, Standard Test Method for Float Test for Bituminous Materials
 D 244, Standard Test Methods and Practices for Emulsified Asphalts
 D 422, Standard Test Method for Particle-Size Analysis of Soils
 D 558, Standard Test Methods for Moisture-Density (Unit Weight) Relations of Soil-Cement
Mixtures
 D 559, Standard Test Methods for Wetting and Drying Compacted Soil-Cement Mixtures
(Withdrawn 2012)
 D 560, Standard Test Methods for Freezing and Thawing Compacted Soil-Cement Mixtures
(Withdrawn 2012)
 D 698, Standard Test Methods for Laboratory Compaction Characteristics of Soil Using
Standard Effort (12 400 ft-lbf/ft3 (600 kN-m/m3))
 D 854, Standard Test Methods for Specific Gravity of Soil Solids by Water Pycnometer
 D 1074, Standard Test Method for Compressive Strength of Bituminous Mixtures
 D 1557, Standard Test Methods for Laboratory Compaction Characteristics of Soil Using
Modified Effort (56,000 ft-lbf/ft3 (2,700 kN-m/m3))
 D 1560, Standard Test Methods for Resistance to Deformation and Cohesion of Bituminous
Mixtures by Means of Hveem Apparatus
 D 1561, Standard Practice for Preparation of Bituminous Mixture Test Specimens by Means
of California Kneading Compactor
 D 1754/D 1754M, Standard Test Method for Effects of Heat and Air on Asphaltic Materials
(Thin-Film Oven Test)
 D 1856, Standard Test Method for Recovery of Asphalt From Solution by Abson Method
 D 1883, Standard Test Method for CBR (California Bearing Ratio) of Laboratory-Compacted
Soils
 D 2041/D 2041M, Standard Test Method for Theoretical Maximum Specific Gravity and
Density of Bituminous Paving Mixtures
 D 2168, Standard Practices for Calibration of Laboratory Mechanical-Rammer Soil
Compactors
 D 2170/D 2170M, Standard Test Method for Kinematic Viscosity of Asphalts (Bitumens)
 D 2171/D 2171M, Standard Test Method for Viscosity of Asphalts by Vacuum Capillary
Viscometer
 D 2419, Standard Test Method for Sand Equivalent Value of Soils and Fine Aggregate
 D 2844, Standard Test Method for Resistance R-Value and Expansion Pressure of Compacted
Soils
 D 2850, Standard Test Method for Unconsolidated-Undrained Triaxial Compression Test on
Cohesive Soils
 D 2872, Standard Test Method for Effect of Heat and Air on a Moving Film of Asphalt
(Rolling Thin-Film Oven Test)

TS-AMRL R 18-4 AASHTO

© 2013 by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials.
All rights reserved. Duplication is a violation of applicable law.
  D 3143, Standard Test Method for Flash Point of Cutback Asphalt with Tag Open-Cup
Apparatus
 D 4318, Standard Test Methods for Liquid Limit, Plastic Limit, and Plasticity Index of Soils
 D 4402/D 4402M, Standard Test Method for Viscosity Determination of Asphalt at Elevated
Temperatures Using a Rotational Viscometer
 D 4753, Standard Guide for Evaluating, Selecting, and Specifying Balances and Standard
Masses for Use in Soil, Rock, and Construction Materials Testing
 D 4829, Standard Test Method for Expansion Index of Soils
 D 6084, Standard Test Method for Elastic Recovery of Bituminous Materials by Ductilometer
 D 6307, Standard Test Method for Asphalt Content of Hot-Mix Asphalt by Ignition Method
 D 6521, Standard Practice for Accelerated Aging of Asphalt Binder Using a Pressurized
Aging Vessel (PAV)
 D 6648, Standard Test Method for Determining the Flexural Creep Stiffness of Asphalt
Binder Using the Bending Beam Rheometer (BBR)
 D 6723, Standard Test Method for Determining the Fracture Properties of Asphalt Binder in
Direct Tension (DT)
 D 6925, Standard Test Method for Preparation and Determination of the Relative Density of
Hot Mix Asphalt (HMA) Specimens by Means of the Superpave Gyratory Compactor
 D 6926, Standard Practice for Preparation of Bituminous Specimens Using Marshall
Apparatus
 D 6927, Standard Test Method for Marshall Stability and Flow of Bituminous Mixtures
 D 7000, Standard Test Method for Sweep Test of Bituminous Emulsion Surface Treatment
Samples
 D 7115, Standard Test Method for Measurement of Superpave Gyratory Compactor (SGC)
Internal Angle of Gyration Using Simulated Loading
 D 7175, Standard Test Method for Determining the Rheological Properties of Asphalt Binder
Using a Dynamic Shear Rheometer
 E 11, Standard Specification for Woven Wire Test Sieve Cloth and Test Sieves
 E 77, Standard Test Method for Inspection and Verification of Thermometers

3. TERMINOLOGY
3.1. calibration— a process that, under specified conditions, establishes metrological traceability by
determining: (1) the relation between the quantity values provided by measurement standards and
the corresponding indications from a measuring instrument or system, and (2) the resulting
measurement uncertainty (Note 1).
Note 1—This definition for calibration and the following definitions for check, standardization,
traceability, uncertainty, and verification of calibration are based on the definitions in R 61.

3.1.1. Examples—balances (measurement instrument), dynamic shear rheometer (measurement system),

pycnometer (material measure).

3.1.2. Discussion—The purpose of calibration is to establish the traceability of a measurement.

Uncertainty estimates obtained during calibration are used to judge if an instrument is suitable for
its intended purpose. There is a need to re-establish traceability or recalibrate only when
instrument measurements drift out of control (as determined through verification of calibration).

3.2. check—a specific type of inspection and/or measurement performed on equipment and materials
to indicate compliance or otherwise with stated criteria.

TS-AMRL R 18-5 AASHTO

© 2013 by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials.
All rights reserved. Duplication is a violation of applicable law.
3.2.1. Example—specimen molds.

3.2.2. Discussion—Stated criteria can be dimensional tolerances.

3.3. maintenance—a regularly scheduled preventive measure taken to preserve the effective working
condition of test equipment.

3.4. measurement standard—The embodiment of the definition of a given quantity, with a stated value
and measurement uncertainty, used as a reference. 2 This term is often called “reference standard.”

3.5. metrological traceability—the property of a result of a measurement whereby it can be related to

stated references, usually national or international standards, through a documented, unbroken
chain of calibrations, each contributing to the measurement uncertainty.

3.5.1. Discussion—There is a need for traceable measurements. Measurements, not the instrument, can
be traceable. Measurement traceability is established through calibration. Measurement
traceability is maintained through verification of calibration (a regular check of instrument output
using a control standard).

3.6. quality management system (QMS) (for a CML)—the organizational structure, staff
responsibilities, policies, standard operating procedures, processes, and records that assist the
laboratory in achieving its quality objectives.

3.7. standardization—a process that determines (1) the correction to be applied to the result of a
measuring instrument, measuring system, material measure, or measurement standard when its
values are compared with the values realized by standards, or (2) the adjustment to be applied to a
piece of equipment when its performance is compared with that of an accepted standard or
process.

3.7.1. Discussion—Standardization in case (1) is a simplified form of calibration that estimates

systematic error but does not identify random error. Standardization, therefore, does not address
all of the elements of uncertainty of measurement and does not lead to traceable measurements.
An example of case (2) standardization is adjusting the number of blows of a mechanically
operated hammer so it applies the energy equivalent to that of a manually operated hammer.

3.8. uncertainty—a parameter associated with the result of a measurement that defines the range of the
values that could be attributed to the measured quantity.

3.8.1. Discussion—The uncertainty of a measurement is required in order to establish its traceability.

The uncertainty estimates obtained during calibration are used to judge if an instrument is suitable
for its intended purpose.

3.9. verification of calibration—a process that establishes whether the results of a previously
calibrated measurement instrument, measurement system, or material measure are stable.

3.9.1. Discussion—Verification of calibration is used to maintain the traceability of a measurement and

to determine when to recalibrate. Control charts are often used to plot the results and determine
whether instrument measurements have drifted out of control.

4. SIGNIFICANCE AND USE

4.1. This document provides guidance to laboratories in the establishment and implementation of a
quality management system. By use of the concepts in this document, a laboratory may prepare

TS-AMRL R 18-6 AASHTO

© 2013 by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials.
All rights reserved. Duplication is a violation of applicable law.
 policies, procedures, and records that describe the elements and functions of its quality
management system.

4.2. This document is not intended to prescribe the methods by which a laboratory achieves the desired
level of quality, but does provide acceptable approaches.

4.3. The user is cautioned that a QMS prepared by following this document can only serve a useful
purpose if it describes or references procedures that are practiced on a routine basis by the
laboratory. A QMS only describes the elements of the system and how they are intended to be
implemented. It is not the existence but the implementation of an effective quality management
system that is important.

5. MANAGEMENT REQUIREMENTS
5.1. Quality Management System (QMS):

5.1.1. The laboratory shall establish, implement, and maintain a quality management system (QMS)
appropriate to the scope of its activities. The QMS shall be available for use and understood by
laboratory staff.
Note 2—A QMS may be documented and distributed in hard copy or electronic format.
Note 3—Examples of some QMS documents are provided in the Appendix. The laboratory may
establish methods other than those shown in the Appendix to meet QMS requirements.

5.2. Document Control:

5.2.1. Each QMS document shall indicate its preparation date. When a document is revised, the date of
revision shall be indicated on the document.

5.2.2. Test Methods, Practices, Procedures, and Specifications—The laboratory shall maintain copies of
standards for the testing performed and shall ensure that the procedures are the most current and
are readily accessible to the employees performing the testing.

5.3. Organization:

5.3.1. The legal name and address of the laboratory—and that of the main office or company, if
different—and any other information needed to identify the organization shall be documented.

5.3.2. The ownership and management structure of the laboratory shall be documented. Names,
affiliations, and positions of principal officers and directors shall be listed.

5.3.3. The laboratory shall maintain an organization chart showing relevant internal organizational
components, including positions and names, that are part of the organization. The organization
chart shall clearly define relationships with other partner organizations where applicable.

5.4. Staff:

5.4.1. The laboratory shall maintain a position description for each technical operational position shown
on the laboratory’s organization chart. Position descriptions shall identify the position and include
a description of the duties, required skills, and education and experience associated with the
position.

5.4.2. The laboratory shall maintain a brief biographical sketch, noting the education, work experience,
licensure, certifications, and current position for each supervisory technical staff.

TS-AMRL R 18-7 AASHTO

© 2013 by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials.
All rights reserved. Duplication is a violation of applicable law.
5.4.3. Technical Manager—The laboratory shall have a Technical Manager (however named) who has
overall responsibility for the technical operations of the laboratory. In addition, the laboratory
shall nominate an individual to serve in the Technical Manager’s absence.

5.4.4. QMS Management—The laboratory shall designate a person(s) having responsibility for
determining whether quality management system activities are being implemented by laboratory
staff. This individual(s) shall have direct access to top management (Note 4).
Note 4—This individual(s) may have other responsibilities (e.g., Laboratory Manager).

5.5. Technician Training and Evaluation:

5.5.1. The laboratory shall maintain a procedure that describes the method used to ensure that new
laboratory personnel are trained to perform tests in accordance with standard procedures. In
addition to the description of training methods, the document shall indicate what position or
employee is responsible for the laboratory training program and the maintenance of training
records (see Figure X1.1).
Note 5—There may be several different methods employed for differing levels of staff
experience, including (1) on-the-job apprentice training (one-on-one) for new employees with
little or no experience in laboratory or inspection work; (2) formal in-house training sessions for
certification, rating, or competency evaluation; and (3) training by external organizations. An
individual with prior experience performing a specific test need only have competency confirmed
by the laboratory (see Section 5.5.2).

5.5.2. The laboratory shall maintain a procedure describing the method used to evaluate staff
competency to ensure that each test covered by the scope of this standard is performed in
accordance with standard procedures. This description shall include the frequency of competency
evaluations for each technician and indicate what position or employee is responsible for
evaluating staff competency and maintaining records. The procedure shall ensure that each
technician receives a performance evaluation for each test that technician performs (see
Figure X1.2).
Note 6—Proficiency sample testing may be useful in evaluating staff competency; however, it
should be used in conjunction with observation of actual testing performed.

5.5.3. The laboratory shall maintain records of technician training and competency evaluation activities.
The records shall include the test method for which the technician was evaluated, the date on
which competence was determined or confirmed, the name of the individual who evaluated the
technician’s competency, and comments about the training or competency evaluation activity.

5.6. Internal Audits:

5.6.1. The laboratory shall maintain a document describing the scope of internal audits. Internal audits
shall verify that the laboratory’s operations continue to comply with its policies and procedures
and the requirements of this standard.

5.6.2. The document shall include the frequency of the reviews and identification of the individual(s)
responsible for the review. The internal audit program shall address all elements of the quality
management system and shall be conducted at least every 12 months by trained personnel
independent of the activity being audited, where possible.

5.6.3. Findings from internal audits shall be recorded (see Figures X1.3 and X1.4).

5.7. Corrective Action:

5.7.1. The laboratory shall maintain a procedure for implementing corrective action when
nonconforming work or departures from policies and procedures have been discovered (Note 7).

TS-AMRL R 18-8 AASHTO

© 2013 by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials.
All rights reserved. Duplication is a violation of applicable law.
 The procedure shall identify the individual responsible for implementing corrective action and
shall begin with an investigation to determine the root cause of the problem. Records of corrective
action shall be maintained (see Figure X1.5).
Note 7—The corrective action procedure should be implemented for nonconformities in the
following areas: internal audits, customer complaints, equipment calibrations, standardizations,
checks and maintenance, external assessments, and proficiency sample testing.

5.7.2. The laboratory shall document the method used in responding to customer complaints (see
Figure X1.6). Records of customer complaints and the resulting actions shall be maintained.

5.8. Records Retention:

5.8.1. Quality Management System Records—Records pertaining to external assessments, internal

audits, proficiency sample testing, technician training and evaluation, and personnel shall be
retained by the laboratory for a minimum of 5 years.

5.8.2. Technical Records—The laboratory shall retain records of test data, test reports, equipment
calibration, standardization, check, and maintenance activities for a minimum of 5 years.
Note 8—Although a 5-year retention schedule is adequate in some instances, there are many
circumstances when a longer retention period may be advantageous to the laboratory. Records
concerning the calibrations, standardizations, checks, and maintenance of equipment are an
example. Retention schedules of this type usually require such records to be held throughout the
useful life of the equipment.

6. TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS
6.1. Equipment:

6.1.1. Inventory—The laboratory shall maintain an inventory of major sampling, testing, calibration,
standardization and check equipment, and measurement standards. The list shall include, where
available, the name, date placed in service, manufacturer, and model and serial number.
Note 9—An identification number assigned by the laboratory or other unique identifying
information may be substituted for the model and serial number if this is the practice normally
followed by the laboratory.
Note 10—Major equipment includes all equipment that is normally amortized by a laboratory,
such as shakers, physical or chemical testing machines, balances, baths, ovens, microscopes, and
computing equipment dedicated to testing. Equipment such as chairs, desks, and file cabinets may
be excluded. Major equipment does not usually include expendable items such as miscellaneous
glassware, sieves, molds, and viscometers.

6.1.2. Equipment Calibrations, Standardizations, and Checks:

6.1.2.1. The laboratory shall maintain a list giving a general description of equipment that requires
calibration, standardization, and checks. For each item the list shall include the
interval of calibration, standardization, or checks and a reference to the procedure used (Note 11)
(see Figure X1.7).
Note 11—When standard procedures are used, the standard should be referenced (e.g., unit
weight bucket, T 19). When the procedure used has been prepared by the laboratory, the in-house
designation should be referenced. It should be indicated if the work is performed by an outside
agency.

6.1.2.2. The laboratory shall have a procedure that describes the method for ensuring that the calibration,
standardization, and checks are performed for all required equipment at the specified intervals.

TS-AMRL R 18-9 AASHTO

© 2013 by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials.
All rights reserved. Duplication is a violation of applicable law.
 This procedure shall include the name of the individual(s) or position(s) responsible for ensuring
that these activities are performed, and procedures for handling equipment that is newly acquired,
removed from service, or defective (see Figure X1.8).

6.1.2.3. The laboratory shall have detailed written procedures for all in-house calibration, standardization,
and check activities not addressed in standards or operating instructions (Note 11). These
procedures shall indicate the equipment required to perform the calibration, standardization, or
check (see Figures X1.9 to X1.14). If a piece of laboratory testing equipment is used over a range
of measurements (e.g., thermometer, dial indicator, etc.), the calibration or standardization shall
include several measurements over that range.

6.1.2.4. The laboratory shall calibrate, standardize, and check all significant equipment associated with
tests the laboratory performs (Note 12). As a minimum, the applicable equipment listed in Tables
A1.1 through A1.8 shall be included.
Note 12—Refer to R 61 for guidance on performing equipment calibrations, standardizations,
and checks.

6.1.2.5. Calibration, Standardization, and Check Frequencies—Applicable measurement equipment shall

be calibrated, standardized, or checked at the intervals specified in the laboratory’s QMS. The
laboratory shall establish intervals according to the following guidelines:

6.1.2.5.1. The intervals specified by the laboratory shall be no greater than those indicated in Tables A1.1
through A1.8 unless such equipment is calibrated, standardized, or checked before each use or the
laboratory has documented evidence to show that the conformance of the equipment to the
specification requirements is stable (Notes 13, 14, and 15).
Note 13—The intervals for the calibration of measurement equipment may be extended provided
that verification of calibration data obtained with frequent measurement checks using control
standards indicates that equipment measurement results are stable over time. Process-control
charts are commonly used to display the data.
Note 14—Equipment check intervals may be extended provided that equipment check data
indicate that equipment wear is predictable over time.
Note 15—Analysis of the verification of calibration data and check data for some equipment may
indicate that intervals should be decreased to ensure that the equipment consistently meets the
specification requirements or is removed from service when appropriate.

6.1.2.5.2. When a maximum interval for a specific piece of measurement equipment is specified in a
standard, the interval specified by the laboratory shall not exceed this interval unless the
equipment is calibrated, standardized, or checked before each use.

6.1.2.6. Equipment that has been removed from service and newly acquired equipment without a
manufacturer’s certification shall be calibrated, standardized, or checked before being placed
in service.

6.1.3. Measurement Standards:

6.1.3.1. The laboratory shall maintain calibration certificates that establish the traceability of measurement
standards or in-house equipment used for calibrations, standardizations, and checks. The
calibration certificates shall include estimates of measurement uncertainty. The QMS shall include
a procedure that describes how the laboratory ensures the calibration of its measurement standards.

6.1.4. Equipment Maintenance:

TS-AMRL R 18-10 AASHTO

© 2013 by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials.
All rights reserved. Duplication is a violation of applicable law.
6.1.4.1. The laboratory shall have a system in place for performing regular maintenance on any equipment
or test system in which repeated use could degrade the equipment’s or test system’s ability to
produce repeatable results.

6.1.4.2. The laboratory shall maintain a list giving a general description of equipment that requires
maintenance. For each item, the list shall include the interval of maintenance and a reference to the
procedure used (Note 16) (see Table A1.9 for requirements and Figure X1.17 for an example of a
maintenance table).
Note 16—In most cases, the laboratory should refer to the manufacturers’ instructions to
determine the recommended maintenance interval and procedures. In some cases, the laboratory
will need to create its own maintenance intervals and procedures based on the frequency of use
and risk of equipment failure.

6.1.4.3. The laboratory shall have detailed written procedures for all in-house maintenance activities.
These procedures shall indicate the equipment required to perform the maintenance and a general
explanation of the work performed. If manufacturer’s instructions for maintenance are available,
they shall be referenced on the in-house procedure (see Figure X1.18).

6.1.4.4. The maintenance records shall contain the name of the individual who performed the maintenance,
the date the work was completed, and any comments.

6.1.4.5. The laboratory shall maintain the manufacturers’ instructions for operating and maintaining
equipment, where applicable.

6.1.5. Equipment Records—The laboratory shall maintain calibration, standardization, and check records
for all equipment specified in the QMS. Such records shall include:

6.1.5.1. Detailed results of the work performed (dimensions, mass, force, frequency, temperature,
time, etc.);

6.1.5.2. Description of the equipment calibrated, standardized, checked, or maintained, including model
and serial number or other acceptable identification (Note 9);

6.1.5.3. Date the work was done;

6.1.5.4. Identification of the individual who performed the work;

6.1.5.5. Identification of the calibration, standardization, or check, procedure used; and

6.1.5.6. Identification of any device used for in-house calibration, standardization, or check, including
serial numbers, laboratory numbers, or other identification.

6.2. Sample Management:

6.2.1. The laboratory shall have a procedure for the storage, retention, and disposal of test samples
(see Figure X1.15).
Note 17—In this context, the term “storage” refers to sample placement and handling before
testing. The term “retention” refers to sample placement and handling after testing.

6.2.2. The laboratory shall have a procedure for identifying test samples. The identification shall be
retained throughout the life of the sample in the laboratory.

6.3. Test Records and Reports:

TS-AMRL R 18-11 AASHTO

© 2013 by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials.
All rights reserved. Duplication is a violation of applicable law.
6.3.1. The laboratory shall have a document that describes methods used by the laboratory to produce
test records and to prepare, check, and amend test reports. The document shall identify the
individual(s) responsible for maintaining test records and reports and shall describe the
distribution of test reports (see Figure X1.16).

6.3.2. Test Records—The laboratory shall maintain test records that contain sufficient information to
permit verification of any test reports. Records pertaining to testing shall include original
observations, calculations, derived data, and an identification of personnel involved in sampling
and testing.

6.3.2.1. The laboratory shall prepare test reports that clearly, accurately, and unambiguously present the
information specified in Table 1.
Table 1—Test Report Requirements
Identification of the report and the date issued
Description, identification, and condition of the test sample
Identification of the standard test method used
Test results and other pertinent data required by the standard test method
Identification of any test results obtained from tests performed by a subcontractor
Name of the person(s) accepting technical responsibility for the test report (if applicable)

6.3.2.2. In addition to the requirements listed in Section 6.3.2.1, the information listed in Table 2 shall be
available and traceable to the test reports.
Table 2—Test Report Information
Name and address of the testing laboratory
Name and address of the client or identification of the project
Date of receipt of the test sample
Date(s) of test performance
Deviations from, additions to, or exclusions from the test method

6.3.2.3. The procedure for amending reports shall require that the previously existing report be clearly
referenced when an amendment is made. The references shall establish a clear audit trail from the
latest issuance or deletion to the original report and its supporting data.

6.4. Subcontracting—The laboratory shall maintain a document describing the policies that the
laboratory follows relative to subcontracting, if it engages in such activities. These policies shall
include procedures followed by the laboratory in selecting competent subcontractors and reporting
the results of testing performed by subcontractors.

6.5. Assuring the Quality of Results:

6.5.1. The laboratory shall have procedures for monitoring the validity of test results. The monitoring
shall be planned and may include one or more of the following:

6.5.1.1. Participation in external assessment programs (Note 17);

6.5.1.2. Participation in proficiency sample or interlaboratory comparison testing (Note 17); and

6.5.1.3. Retesting of retained items.

TS-AMRL R 18-12 AASHTO

© 2013 by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials.
All rights reserved. Duplication is a violation of applicable law.
 Note 18—The AASHTO Materials Reference Laboratory (AMRL) and the Cement and Concrete
Reference Laboratory (CCRL), located in Frederick, Maryland, conduct on-site assessment and
proficiency sample programs that the laboratory may use.

6.5.2. Records—The laboratory shall retain results of the monitoring activities, including the steps taken
to determine the root cause of any nonconformities and the corrective actions taken.

7. KEYWORDS
7.1. Calibration; check; construction materials testing; equipment maintenance; internal audit; quality
management system; standardization.

ANNEX A1
(Mandatory Information)

Table A1.1—General Testing Equipment

Max. Interval
Equipment Requirement (months)
Mechanical Shakers Check Sieving Thoroughness 12
Ovens Standardize Thermometric Device 12
Coarse Sieves (Openings ≥4.75 mm) Check Physical Condition and Dimensions of Openings 12
Fine Sieves (Openings <4.75 mm) Check Physical Condition 12
Specimen Molds Check Critical Dimensions 12
General Purpose Balances and Masses Standardize 12
Thermometer Standardize 12
Analytical Balances and Masses Calibrate 12
Calipers Standardize 12
Vacuum/Pressure Measurement Devices Standardize 12
(Bourdon Gauges, Pressure Manometers,
and Electronic Pressure Transducers)
Length Measurement Devices Standardize 12
(Dial Indicators, LDTs, LVDTs, and Extensometers)
Compression, Loading, or Tensile Testing Devices Standardize 12

Table A1.2—Aggregate Testing Equipment

Test Method Max. Interval
Equipment (AASHTO/ASTM) Requirement (months)
Unit Weight Measures T 19/C 29 Standardize 12
Sulfate Oven T 104/C 88 Check Rate of Evaporation 12
Sulfate Soundness Sample Containers T 104/C 88 Check Physical Condition 12
L.A. Machine T 96/C 131 Check RPM and Critical Dimensions 24
Steel Balls T 96/C 131 Check Individual Weight and Charge Weight 24
Conical Mold, Tamper T 84/C 128 Check Critical Dimensions 24

TS-AMRL R 18-13 AASHTO

© 2013 by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials.
All rights reserved. Duplication is a violation of applicable law.
Table A1.3—Asphalt Binder/Cutback Asphalt/Emulsified Asphalt Testing Equipment
Test Method Max. Interval
Equipment (AASHTO/ASTM) Requirement (months)
Saybolt Viscometers T 59/D 244 Standardize 36
Brush Holder and Brush D 7000 Check Critical Dimensions 12
Nylon Strip D 7000 Check 6
Timing Devices T 49, T 201, T 202/ Standardize 12
D 5, D 2170, D 2171
Penetrometer Needle T 49/D 5 Check Condition and Critical Dimensions 12
Penetrometer T 49/D 5 Standardize for Pen. Depth 12
Ductility Machine T 51, T 300, T 301/ Check Speed of Travel 12
D 113, D 6084
TFO Shelf and RTFO Carriage T 179, T 240/ Check Rotation Speed 12
D 1754, D 2872
Brass Rings and Assemblies T 53/D 36 Check Critical Dimensions 12
Pycnometers T 228/D 70 Check Physical Condition 12
Pycnometers T 228/D 70 Standardize Volume 12
Collars and Floats T 50/D 139 Check Critical Dimensions 12
Flow Meters R 59, T 240/ Standardize 12
D 1856, D 2872
Flash Cups T 48, T 79/D 92, D 3143 Check Critical Dimensions 12
Pressurized Aging Vessel R 28/D 6521 Standardize Temperature and Pressure 6
Rotational Viscometer T 316/D 4402 Standardize with Reference Fluid 6
Dynamic Shear Rheometer T 315/D 7175 Standardize with Reference Fluid 6
Bending Beam Rheometer T 313/D 6648 Calibrate Masses 12

Table A1.4—Asphalt Mixtures Testing Equipment

Test Method Max. Interval
Equipment (AASHTO/ASTM) Requirement (months)
Mechanical Compactor T 245 Standardize 36
CA Kneading Compactor T 247/D 1561 Standardize 24
T 246, T 247/
Follower, Calibration Cylinder Check Critical Dimensions 12
D 1560, D 1561
Manual Compaction Hammers, Check Critical Dimensions,
T 245/D 6926, D 6927 12
Breaking Heads Check Mass of Hammer
Plungers T 167/D 1074 Check Critical Dimensions 12
Standardize Ram Pressure, Frequency of
Gyratory Compactor T 312/D 6925 12
Gyration, LVDT
Gyratory Compactor T 312 Standardize Internal Angle of Gyration 12
Standardize External or Internal Angle of
Gyratory Compactor D 6925 12
Gyration
Ram Face, Base Plate Face T 312/D 7115 Check Critical Dimensions 12
Ignition Oven Internal Balance T 308/D 6307 Standardize 12

TS-AMRL R 18-14 AASHTO

© 2013 by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials.
All rights reserved. Duplication is a violation of applicable law.
Table A1.5—Soil Testing Equipment
Test Method Max. Interval
Equipment (AASHTO/ASTM) Requirement (months)
Mechanical Compactor T 99, T 180/D 698, D 1557 Standardize 12
CA Kneading Compactor T 190/D 2844 Standardize 24
Manual Hammer T 99, T 180/D 698, D 1557, Check Mass and Critical Dimensions 12
D 4829
Liquid Limit Device T 89/D 4318 Check Wear and Critical Dimensions 12
Grooving Tool T 89/D 4318 Check Critical Dimensions 12
Hydrometers T 88/D 422 Check Critical Dimensions 24
Straightedge T 99, T 134, T 135, T 136, Check Planeness of Edge 12
T 180/D 558, D 559,
D 560, D 698, D 1557
Weighted Foot Assembly T 176/D 2419 Check Mass 12
CBR Annular and Slotted Weights T 193/D 1883 Check Mass 12
CBR Penetration Piston T 193/D 1883 Check Diameter and Length 12
Standard Metal Specimen T 190/D 2844 Check Outside Diameter 12
Metal Follower T 190/D 2844 Check Diameter 12
Vertical Load D 4829 Standardize 12

Table A1.6—Portland Cement Concrete Testing Equipment

Test Method Max. Interval
Equipment (AASHTO/ASTM) Requirement (months)
Unit Weight Measures T 121/C 138 Standardize 12
Air Meters (pressure type) T 152/C 231 Standardize 3a
Air Meters (volumetric type) C 173 Standardize 12a
Air Meters (volumetric type) T 196 Standardize 36a
Capping Material T 231/C 617 Check Strength 3
Slump Cones T 119/C 143 Check Critical Dimensions 12
Metallic Reusable Molds T 22, T 23/C 31, C 39 Check Critical Dimensions 12
Single Use Molds T 22, T 23/C 31, C 39 Check Dimensions of Each Shipment —
Recording Thermometer C 31, C 39 Standardize 6
a
The individual test methods specify conditions that require restandardization, such as changes in elevation and rough handling.

TS-AMRL R 18-15 AASHTO

© 2013 by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials.
All rights reserved. Duplication is a violation of applicable law.
Table A1.7—Hydraulic Cement Testing Equipment
Test Method Max. Interval
Equipment (AASHTO/ASTM) Requirement (months)
Moist Cabinet/Water Tank Recording T 106/C 109 Standardize 6
Thermometer(s)
Storage Water T 106/C 109 Check for Lime Saturation 6
No. 325 Sieves T 192/C 430 Clean after 5 Determinations, Standardize —
after 100 Determinations
No. 325 Nozzle T 192/C 430 Check Flow Rate 6
Bearing Blocks T 106/C 109 Check Planeness 12
Wagner Turbidimeter T 98/C 115 Standardize 6
Standard Sand — Check Each New Shipment for —
Conformance to C 778
Air-Permeability Apparatus T 153/C 204 Standardize Using NIST 114 30
Flow Tables M 152/C 230 Standardize Flow Resultsa 30
Air Content Measures T 137/C 185 Standardizea 30
Cube Molds and Tampers T 106/C 109 Check Critical Dimensions and Physical 30
Conditiona
Vicat Apparatus and Vicat Ring T 129, T 131, T 186/ Check Physical Condition, Critical 30
C 187, C 191, C 451 Dimensions, and Massa
Gillmore Test Apparatus T 154/C 266 Check Physical Condition, Critical 30
Dimensions, and Massa
Mechanical Mixing Apparatus T 162/C 305 Check Critical Clearances and Speedsa 30
Water-Retention Apparatus C 91 Check Critical Dimensionsa 30
a
The equipment evaluation provided by CCRL during their routine inspection satisfies this requirement.

Table A1.8—Masonry Testing Equipment

Test Method Max. Interval
Equipment (AASHTO/ASTM) Requirement (months)
Micrometer C 67 Standardize 12
Air Content Measures T 137/C 185 Standardizea 30
Flow Tables M 152/C 230 Standardize Flow Resultsa 30
Water-Retention Apparatus C 91 Check Critical Dimensionsa 30
Water Retention C 91 Standardize Vacuum 12
Cube Molds and Tampers T 106/C 109 Check Physical Condition and
12
Critical Dimensionsa
Flexural Bond Apparatus C 1072 Standardize 12
Mixers T 162/C 305 Check Paddle to Bowl Clearance 24
a
The equipment evaluation provided by CCRL during their routine inspection satisfies this requirement.

TS-AMRL R 18-16 AASHTO

© 2013 by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials.
All rights reserved. Duplication is a violation of applicable law.
Table A1.9—Equipment Maintenance
Test Method
Equipment (AASHTO/ASTM) Max. Interval (months)
R 28, T 240, T 313, T 314, T 315/D 2872,
Performance-Graded Binder Equipment 12
D 6521, D 6648, D 6723, D 7175
Ductilometers T 51, T 300, T 301/D 113, D 6084 12
Mechanical Marshall Compactors T 245 12
California Kneading Compactors T 190, T 247/D 1561, D 2844 12
Gyratory Compactors T 312/D 6925 12
Mechanical Compactors T 99, T 180/D 698, D 1557 12
Compression Machines Where Applicable 12
Mechanical Shakers Where Applicable 12

Note A1—There may be more items added to the laboratory’s list of equipment that require
maintenance. Maintenance activities will typically involve lubricating, tightening fittings,
cleaning, replacing fluids, checking and replacing damaged or worn parts, etc. These activities will
vary based on the type of equipment, how often the equipment is used, the manufacturer’s
recommendations, etc.

APPENDIX X1 3
(Nonmandatory Information)

(Date)

TRAINING PROGRAM FOR TESTING TECHNICIANS

The Laboratory Manager is responsible for the training program and maintenance of all training records. Copies of the results of all
training shall be distributed to and retained by the Office Manager. Training records shall be retained in the Office Manager’s office. All
materials technicians shall be trained prior to performing test procedures not previously performed. The following training procedures
shall be followed for each test:

1. The trainee shall obtain a copy of the applicable test procedure and report form.

2. The trainee shall study the test procedure and test report forms to become familiar with the equipment, terminology, test procedure,
calculations, and test reports.

3. A qualified technician shall demonstrate the test procedure for the trainee.

4. The trainee shall repeatedly perform the test procedure under the guidance of a qualified technician until proficiency is obtained.

5. The Laboratory Supervisor shall observe the trainee demonstrating the procedure and document that the trainee has demonstrated the
ability to perform the test procedure, if it is performed properly, by making an entry in the trainee’s training record.

Figure X1.1—Description of Testing Technician Training Program

TS-AMRL R 18-17 AASHTO

© 2013 by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials.
All rights reserved. Duplication is a violation of applicable law.
 (Date)

METHOD FOR REVIEWING TECHNICIAN’S COMPETENCY

Each Laboratory Supervisor is responsible for evaluating the test technician’s competency at least once every 12 months by requiring each
technician to demonstrate the AASHTO and/or ASTM test procedures for which he/she has been trained to perform. (If a technician does not
routinely perform a test, it may not be necessary to evaluate his or her competency to perform the test every 12 months. However, the
technician’s competency shall be evaluated prior to performing the test.) Copies of the results of all competency evaluations shall be
maintained by the Office Manager. Competency evaluation records shall be retained in the Office Manager’s office.

For each testing technician, the Supervisor shall record the test demonstrated, the date of the demonstration, and the results of the evaluation
(satisfactory or unsatisfactory). In addition, the Supervisor shall sign each entry on the evaluation record.

If an unsatisfactory result is recorded for a specific test, the Supervisor shall review all observed deviations from the standard AASHTO or
ASTM procedure with the testing technician, observe the technician redemonstrate the test procedure, and record the results as indicated
above.

Figure X1.2—Method for Reviewing Test Technician’s Competency

(Date)

INTERNAL AUDIT PROCEDURE

1. The Quality Manager shall review the following records, reports, and associated documentation every 12 months to ensure that
established quality procedures are being followed:

a) Proficiency Sample Reports

b) On-Site Assessment Reports
c) Previous Internal Audit Findings and Corrective Actions
d) Equipment Calibration, Standardization, Check, and Maintenance Records
e) Technician Training Records
f) Technician Evaluation Records
g) Customer Feedback Records
h) Test Records and Reports
i) Quality Management System

2. After each 12-month review the Quality Manager shall discuss any deficiencies noted with appropriate staff, ensure corrective
action is taken, and prepare a memorandum to the Laboratory Manager describing the items reviewed, the deficiencies identified,
and the corrective action taken.

3. The Office Manager shall maintain a file containing all documents relating to quality management system review in his office.

Figure X1.3—Internal Audit Procedure

TS-AMRL R 18-18 AASHTO

© 2013 by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials.
All rights reserved. Duplication is a violation of applicable law.
 All records adequate and/or deficiencies corrected?
Date
Binder Lab Hot Mix Lab Soil Lab Agg. Lab Conc. Lab Checked
Equipment Records
Personnel Training/Competency Records
Test Records and Reports
Proficiency Sample Reports
On-Site Assessment Corrective Actions
Internal Audit Records and Corrective Actions
Customer Feedback Records

Have there been any changes made or updates required in the following sections of the QMS? Describe any actions taken below.

Changes made? QMS updated?

a) Organizational charts
b) Staff position descriptions
c) Staff biographical sketches
d) Staff training methods
e) Staff evaluation methods
f) Equipment inventory list
g) Equipment calibration/checklist
h) Procedure describing in-house calibrations/checks
i) In-house equipment calibration/check procedures
j) Equipment calibration certificates
k) Procedures followed to produce test records
l) Procedures followed to prepare, check, and amend test reports
m) Procedures for sample identification, storage, retention, and disposal
n) Policies relative to customer complaints
o) Policies relative to internal audits
p) Policies relative to subcontracting
Actions taken:

Reviewed by: ________________________________________ Date: ___________________ Next Review Date: __________________

Figure X1.4—Internal Audit Check Sheet

TS-AMRL R 18-19 AASHTO

© 2013 by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials.
All rights reserved. Duplication is a violation of applicable law.
 (Date)
PROCEDURES RELATED TO PROFICIENCY SAMPLE TESTING AND ON-SITE ASSESSMENTS
GENERAL:
It is the responsibility of the Quality Manager to review all reports pertaining to proficiency sample testing, on-site assessment, and quality
management system evaluations and to bring poor results or differences to the attention of the appropriate Unit Supervisor. It is the
responsibility of the Unit Supervisor to ensure that corrective action is taken and documented. (In some cases it may be necessary for the
Quality Manager to take corrective action and prepare documentation relative to specific differences.)

Reports covering the results of proficiency sample testing and on-site assessment and quality management system evaluations, and
memorandums summarizing investigations and any corrective action taken, shall be maintained by the Quality Manager in the Quality
Manager’s office.

PROFICIENCY SAMPLE TESTING:

Participation:
AMRL Soil Proficiency Sample Program
AMRL Aggregate Proficiency Sample Program
CCRL Concrete Proficiency Sample Program

Identifying poor results:

Any result that is beyond 2 standard deviations from the average value.

Procedures to follow when poor results occur:

1. Determine if the Agency conducting the program correctly entered the data reported.
2. Determine if the test result obtained was properly transferred to the data sheet submitted.
3. Determine if all calculations leading to the test results obtained were correct.
4. Determine if the equipment used to perform the test meets specification requirements.
5. Determine if the procedures followed when performing the test conformed to specification requirements.
6. Take corrective action to repair or take steps to replace defective equipment or instruct the technician of the correct procedure to follow.
7. Prepare a memorandum of record summarizing the results of the investigation, identifying the cause of the poor results if determined,
and describing any corrective action taken.

ON-SITE ASSESSMENTS:
Participation:
AMRL Soils Inspection
AMRL Aggregate Inspection
CCRL Portland Cement Concrete Inspection

Procedures to follow when findings are reported:

(Apparatus Deficiencies)
1. Determine if the equipment meets specification requirements.
2. If the equipment is found to be defective, take necessary steps to repair or replace it.
3. Prepare a memorandum of record summarizing the results of the investigation and any corrective action taken.

(Procedural Deficiencies)
1. Discuss each procedural deficiency with the testing technician and review the proper procedure.
2. Observe the technician perform the test properly.
3. Prepare a memorandum of record summarizing the action taken.

(Quality Management System Deficiencies)

1. The Quality Manager shall review each deficiency cited by the evaluator with the responsible employee.
2. Take appropriate action.
3. Prepare a memorandum of record summarizing the action taken.

Figure X1.5—Procedures Related to Proficiency Sample Testing and On-Site Assessments

TS-AMRL R 18-20 AASHTO

© 2013 by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials.
All rights reserved. Duplication is a violation of applicable law.
 (Date)
HANDLING CUSTOMER FEEDBACK

Upon receipt of a customer complaint, the following actions shall be taken:

1. The Director of the laboratory shall be notified.

2. Complaint is brought to the attention of the Supervisor of the department or section in question.
3. Supervisor contacts the customer to verify all aspects of the complaint and establish resolution date (if necessary).
4. All reports, records, and pertinent data shall be reviewed; and all calculations are to be checked for accuracy.
5. The technician(s) performing the test is consulted by the Supervisor to determine any unusual problems or circumstances involved.
6. Supervisor reports all information gathered to the Director.
7. The Director shall formulate an appropriate reply and issue same to the complainee.

Figure X1.6—Procedure for Responding to Customer Feedback

(Date)

EQUIPMENT CALIBRATION, STANDARDIZATION, AND CHECK INFORMATION

Item(s) Interval Requirement Procedure
Balances 12 Mo. Standardization ASTM D 4753
Analytical Balances and Masses 12 Mo. Calibrate Outside Contractor
Mechanical Compactors 12 Mo. Standardization ASTM D 2168
L.A. Abrasion Equipment 12 Mo. Check In-House Procedure A-2
Proctor Hammer 12 Mo. Check In-House Procedure S-1
Compression Machines 12 Mo. Standardization Outside Contractor
Proctor Molds 4 Mo. Check In-House Procedure S-2
Marshall Molds 4 Mo. Check In-House Procedure B-2
Unit Weight Buckets 6 Mo. Standardization AASHTO T 19
Thermometers 6 Mo. Standardization ASTM E 77

Figure X1.7—List Showing Equipment Calibration, Standardization, and Check Information

TS-AMRL R 18-21 AASHTO

© 2013 by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials.
All rights reserved. Duplication is a violation of applicable law.
 (Date)

EQUIPMENT CALIBRATION, STANDARDIZATION, CHECK, AND

MAINTENANCE POLICIES AND PROCEDURES

General Policies:

1. Required equipment shall be calibrated, standardized, checked, or maintained at specified intervals following the general
procedures indicated below.

2. Newly acquired equipment without a manufacturer’s certification and equipment that has not been calibrated, standardized, or
checked because it has been removed from service shall be calibrated or checked before being returned to service.

3. When any of the Unit’s test equipment is overloaded, mishandled, giving results that are suspect, or is not meeting specification
tolerances, the Unit Supervisor shall remove it from service and clearly mark it by attaching a red ribbon or tape. The equipment
shall be returned to service only after appropriate repairs are made and calibration, standardization, or checks confirm the
equipment functions satisfactorily or meets specification tolerances.

General Procedures:

1. The Supervisor in each Testing Unit is responsible for ensuring that calibration, standardization, checks, and maintenance activities
are performed. He shall maintain a file for each piece of equipment in his unit requiring calibration, standardization, check, or
maintenance. The file for each piece of equipment shall contain detailed records of calibration, standardization, check, or
maintenance work performed in chronological order and shall be kept in the Supervisor’s office.

2. The Supervisor in each Testing Unit shall maintain a set of twelve labeled folders in his office—one for each month of the
year. Each month’s folder shall contain a partially completed calibration, standardization, check, or maintenance record form for
each piece of equipment requiring calibration, standardization, checks, or maintenance during the month indicated on the folder’s
label.

3. During the first week in each month, the Supervisor in each Testing Unit shall remove the partially completed record forms from
the current month’s folder and instruct the appropriate staff to perform the necessary calibration, standardization, check, or
maintenance work within the next week and return the completed record forms.

4. The Supervisor shall prepare partially filled out record forms for each piece of equipment calibrated, standardized, checked, or
maintained that month—identifying the equipment and the next date that calibration, standardization, check, or maintenance work
is required (month and year)—and file each partially filled out form in the appropriate monthly folder.

5. The Supervisor shall file each of the completed record forms in the appropriate equipment record file in chronological order.

Figure X1.8—Policies and Procedures for Conducting Equipment Calibration, Standardization, Checks, and
Maintenance

TS-AMRL R 18-22 AASHTO

© 2013 by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials.
All rights reserved. Duplication is a violation of applicable law.
 (Date) Procedure: G-2

Equipment Checked: SIEVES

Purpose:
This method provides instructions for checking the physical condition of laboratory test sieves ranging in size from 75 mm (3 in.) to 0.075
mm (No. 200) and for measuring the openings of coarse sieves having openings greater than or equal to 4.75 mm (No. 4).

Equipment Required:
1. A caliper readable to 0.01 mm (use for 4.75-mm sieve and coarser).
2. An eye comparator with a 0.1-mm scale or a magnifier (for use with sieves finer than 4.75 mm).

Tolerance:
Sieves shall meet the physical requirements specified in AASHTO M 92 (ASTM E 11).

Procedure:
1. For sieves having openings equal to or greater than 4.75 mm, select and measure, using the calipers, the dimensions of at least four or
five sieve openings in each sieve to ensure that the openings in the wire cloth conform to the requirements in Table 1 of AASHTO M 92
(ASTM E 11). Be sure to include, in the selection, any openings that appear distorted or unusual in size. Measure each of the openings
as the distance between parallel wires measured at the center of each opening. Measure each opening in both the x (horizontal) and y
(vertical) directions. Record the measurements for each of the selected openings. If a sieve has fewer than five full openings, measure
all full openings.
2. For sieves smaller than 4.75 mm, inspect the sieve cloth against a uniformly illuminated background. Use the eye comparator or
magnifier to examine any suspicious areas of the cloth. If obvious deviations, such as weaving defects, creases, wrinkles, or excessive
foreign matter in the cloth, are found, the wire cloth is unacceptable.
3. Inspect the general condition of the sieve. Check the frame and solder joints for cracks or holes. (Check for pinholes in the finer
sieves.)
4. Ensure that the sieve has an appropriate label.
5. Check for tightness of the wires on each individual sieve.

Figure X1.9—Procedure for Checking Sieves

(Date) Procedure: S-1

Equipment Checked: MANUAL HAMMER (AASHTO T 99, T 180) (ASTM D 698, D 1557)

Purpose:
This method provides instructions for checking the critical dimensions of the proctor hammers.

Equipment Required:
1. Calipers readable to 0.01 mm.
2. Tape measure readable to 1 mm.
3. Balance, capacity 5 kg, readable to 1 g.

Tolerance:
Equipment shall meet the dimensional tolerances specified in the applicable test method.

Procedure:
1. Measure and record the diameter of the rammer face determined by taking two readings 90° apart using the calipers.
2. Pull up the handle, measure, and record the drop height of the hammer. Determine this height inside the guide sleeve using the tape
measure.
3. Remove the hammer from the guide sleeve. Determine and record its mass to the nearest 1 g.
4. Measure and record the diameters of the vent holes near the end of the hammer.

Figure X1.10—Procedure for Checking Manual Compaction Hammers

TS-AMRL R 18-23 AASHTO

© 2013 by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials.
All rights reserved. Duplication is a violation of applicable law.
 (Date) Procedure: A-1

Equipment Checked: CONICAL MOLD, TAMPER (AASHTO T 84) (ASTM C 128)

Purpose:
This method provides instructions for checking the critical dimensions of the sand cone and tamper used in the above test method.

Equipment Required:
1. Calipers readable to 0.1 mm.
2. Balance, 500-g capacity, readable to 0.1 g.
3. Ruler readable to 1 mm.

Tolerance:
Equipment shall meet the dimensional tolerances specified in the test method.

Procedure:
(Cone)
1. Measure the inside diameter at the top of the cone to the nearest 1 mm by taking two readings 90° apart using the ruler and record the
results.
2. Invert the cone and repeat step 1.
3. Place the cone on a flat glass surface. Measure and record the depth of the cone.
4. Using the calipers, measure the thickness of the cone to the nearest 0.1 mm by taking two readings 90° apart at the top of the cone and
two readings 90° apart at the bottom of the cone and record the results.
(Tamper)
1. Measure and record the diameter of the tamping face to the nearest 1 mm by taking two readings 90° apart using the ruler.
2. Determine and record the mass of the tamper to the nearest 0.1 g.

Figure X1.11—Procedure for Checking Conical Molds and Tampers

TS-AMRL R 18-24 AASHTO

© 2013 by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials.
All rights reserved. Duplication is a violation of applicable law.
 (Date) Procedure: A-2

Equipment Checked: L.A. ABRASION MACHINE (AASHTO T 96) (ASTM C 131)

Purpose:
This method provides instructions for checking the critical dimensions and general operating condition of the L.A. abrasion machine and
the mass of the spheres used as test charges.

Equipment Required:
1. Steel rule readable to 1 mm.
2. Stopwatch readable to 0.1 s.
3. Balance with a 5-kg capacity, readable to 1 g.

Tolerance:
The L.A. machine shall meet the dimensional tolerances specified in the applicable test method listed above and shall be in good operating
condition. The steel spheres used to charge the L.A. machine shall meet the mass tolerances specified in the applicable test method listed
above.

Procedure:
(L.A. Machine)
1. Measure and record the inside diameter of the drum at the left and right edges to the nearest 1 mm.
2. Measure and record the width and height of the opening to the nearest 1 mm.
3. Measure and record the wall thickness at the left and right edge to the nearest 1 mm.
4. Determine if the cylinder is horizontal using a steel ball to check left-to-right roll.
5. Measure and record the shelf width inside the drum to the nearest 1 mm.
6. Measure and record the distance from the shelf to the opening in the direction of rotation.
7. Using the stopwatch, determine the r/min to the nearest whole number over a 5-minute period. Record the r/min.
8. Check that the number of revolutions is 500 by looking at the counter on the machine.

(Steel Spheres)
1. Determine and record the mass of each individual sphere to the nearest 1 g.
2. Determine and record the mass of the collective charge(s) to the nearest 1 g.

Figure X1.12—Procedure for Checking L.A. Abrasion Machines

(Date) Procedure: B-3

Equipment Checked: TIMERS (AASHTO T 72, T 201, T 202) (ASTM D 88, D 2170, D 2171)

Purpose:
This procedure provides instructions for checking the accuracy of timing devices.

Inspection Equipment Required:

1. Timer, readable to 0.1 s, having a verified accuracy within the tolerance listed in above test methods.

Tolerance:
Timers shall meet the accuracy requirements specified in the applicable test methods listed above.

Procedure:
1. Hold the calibrated timer in one hand and the timer to be checked in the opposite hand.
2. Start the timers simultaneously by pressing the “start” buttons at the same time.
3. Allow the timers to run for at least 15 min. Then stop the timers simultaneously. Record the time indicated by both timers.
4. Record the difference between the two timers. Calculate and record the percent accuracy.
( A − B)
% accuracy
= × 100
B
A = Reading on lab timer (s)
B = Reading on standard timer (s)

Figure X1.13—Procedure for Checking Timing Devices

TS-AMRL R 18-25 AASHTO

© 2013 by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials.
All rights reserved. Duplication is a violation of applicable law.
 (Date) Procedure: B-4

Equipment Checked: PENETRATION APPARATUS (AASHTO T 49) (ASTM D 5)

Purpose:
This procedure provides instructions for checking the equipment used to perform the penetration test.

Equipment Required:
1. Balance, readable to 0.01 g.
2. Microscope or eyepiece, 10×.
3. Metal block, 10.0 mm high. Metal block, 25.4 mm (1 in.) high.
4. Support block, 75 to 87.5 mm high.
5. Ruler, readable to 1 mm.
6. Calibrated stopwatch, readable to 0.1 s.

Tolerance:
The equipment shall meet the tolerances specified in test methods AASHTO T 49 and ASTM D 5.

Procedure:
1. Remove the spindle, 50- and 100-g weights from the penetrometer. Record the weight of each to the nearest 0.01 g.
2. Weigh each needle to the nearest 0.01 g. Visually examine each needle with a microscope or eyepiece. Each needle should be straight
and free of burrs. The base of each needle should be flat.
3. If an automatic timing mechanism is used on the penetrometer, start the calibrated stopwatch when the plunger is released and stop the
calibrated stopwatch when the plunger stops. Record the time indicated on the calibrated stopwatch to the nearest 0.1 s. If a manual
device is used to release the plunger, check the accuracy of the timing device used over a 60-s interval. Record the elapsed time to the
nearest 0.1 s.
4. Place the support block on the base of the penetrometer. Place the 10-mm block on the support block. Adjust the needle height so that
its tip just touches the top of the 10-mm block. Remove the 10-mm block and release the needle to the support block. Adjust the
instrument to measure the distance moved. Repeat step 4 using the 25.4-mm (1-in) block. Determine dial accuracy by comparing
readings with the height of the blocks.
5. Measure and record the distance from the perforated shelf to the bottom of the water bath. Measure and record the distance from the
perforated shelf to the surface of the water. Measure and record the distance the thermometer is immersed in the water.
6. Observe and record the temperature of the water in the bath to the nearest 0.1°C (0.2°F).

Figure X1.14—Procedure for Checking Penetration Test Apparatus

______(Date)______
PROCESSING OF SAMPLES

IDENTIFICATION:
Each sample shall be accompanied by a sample tag indicating the sample number. This identifies the material in terms of the project, the location
of use within the project, the quantity of material represented by the sample, and the material’s intended use. The sample tag is kept with the
sample as long as it remains in the materials laboratory.

STORAGE:
After being logged in, samples are stored in the area of the laboratory in which testing is to be done. During storage, care is taken to avoid
disturbance or contamination. Any AASHTO requirements for storage (e.g., the moist storage of portland cement concrete cylinders) are
followed.

RETENTION:
Samples with acceptable test results are generally discarded when testing is completed. Those with failing results are retained until review of
those results is completed. At that time, the decision is made whether to discard, retest, or continue to retain the sample.

DISPOSAL:
Discarded nonhazardous materials are transported daily by materials section personnel to an appropriate area. Hazardous materials (e.g.,
bituminous concrete extraction solution) are stored in proper containers in an isolated area of the laboratory. Disposal by an approved disposal
contractor is arranged periodically by the hazardous waste disposal officer.

Figure X1.15—Procedure for Sample Management

TS-AMRL R 18-26 AASHTO

© 2013 by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials.
All rights reserved. Duplication is a violation of applicable law.
 (Date)
TEST RECORDS

PREPARING SAMPLE LOG:

Each sample brought to the materials laboratory for testing is recorded in a log book maintained by the Laboratory Manager. The following
information is recorded for each sample:

1. Sample number (this is assigned sequentially to each line of the log book).
2. Project name or contract number.
3. Description of the material.
4. Supplier of the material.
5. Location from which the sample was taken.
6. Name of person(s) who sampled the material.
7. Date of sampling.
8. Date the sample was received in the materials laboratory.
9. The word “RESAMPLE” in red ink (when applicable).
10. The date testing was completed.
11. The initials of the tester.

PREPARING AND CHECKING TEST REPORTS:

Test results are recorded on standard materials section worksheets, which are submitted to the Materials Lab Supervisor who reviews them
prior to preparing a test report. An original and two copies of the test report are prepared for review by the Laboratory Manager. The
original test report is filed in the project folder. One copy of the test report is kept on file with the worksheets in the materials laboratory,
and the other copy is sent to the project engineer for review. Test records and reports are maintained by the Office Manager.

AMENDING REPORTS:
When a report must be amended, a report form shall be filled out indicating the amended test results; the report status field “amended” on
the report form shall be checked; the comment section on the report form shall state the reason for the amended report; the amended report
shall be attached to the original report and processed in the normal manner; and the amended report shall be filed with the original report.

Figure X1.16—Procedures for Producing Test Records and Preparing, Checking, and Amending Test Reports

Date_____________

MAINTENANCE INTERVALS

Equipment Activity Interval

(months)
Compression Clean, lubricate 1
machine
Moist room Ensure spray nozzles 3
unclogged
Check for leaks
Check position of
temperature recorder
probe
Mechanical Lubricate, check for 3
shakers wear
L.A. abrasion Lubricate 6
machine

Figure X1.17—List of Maintenance Activities and Intervals

TS-AMRL R 18-27 AASHTO

© 2013 by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials.
All rights reserved. Duplication is a violation of applicable law.
 Date___________ Maintenance Procedure: M-2

MECHANICAL SHAKER MAINTENANCE PROCEDURE

Equipment Needed: wrench, grease, brush

Procedure:
1. Clean all loose dust and particles from all exposed surfaces of machine
2. Check each paddle for looseness—tighten where necessary
3. Replace any paddles that are in poor condition
4. Clean and grease rotating base
5. Operate shaker without sieves in place to determine how shaker is working
6. Explore any other possible issues and resolve them

MECHANICAL SHAKER MAINTENANCE RECORD

Date Name Comments

1/5/08 Technician A Replaced 2 paddles
4/3/08 Technician A Done
7/7/08 Technician A Screws were loose on rotating base
10/2/08 Technician B Done
1/3/09 Technician B Installed sound dampener on door

Figure X1.18—Mechanical Shaker Maintenance Procedure and Record

1
This document is under the jurisdiction of the American Association of State Highway and Transportation
Officials (AASHTO) Highway Subcommittee on Materials and is the direct responsibility of the Administrative
Task Group.
2
The definition is from the International Vocabulary of Metrology (abbreviated VIM), 3rd edition, 2008, published
by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), in the name of the eight organizations that supported its
development and nominated the experts who prepared it: the Bureau International des Poids et Mesures (BIPM), the
International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), the International Federation of Clinical Chemistry (IFCC), the
International Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation (ILAC), ISO, the International Union of Pure and Applied
Chemistry (IUPAC), the International Union of Pure and Applied Physics (IUPAP), and the International
Organization of Legal Metrology (OIML). The VIM should be the first source consulted for the definitions of terms
not included in this practice.
3
The figures in this Appendix illustrate typical examples of documents, forms, and standard operating procedures
that address the requirements of this practice. A laboratory may employ other methods that satisfy the intent of this
practice. The figures are intended as examples of documents in a laboratory’s Quality Management System. They
are not intended to include all possible laboratory organizational structures or capabilities.

TS-AMRL R 18-28 AASHTO

© 2013 by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials.
All rights reserved. Duplication is a violation of applicable law.