This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles

for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

Designation: C1077 − 24

Standard Practice for

Agencies Testing Concrete and Concrete Aggregates for
Use in Construction and Criteria for Testing Agency
Evaluation1
This standard is issued under the fixed designation C1077; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.

This standard has been approved for use by agencies of the U.S. Department of Defense.

1. Scope* 2. Referenced Documents

1.1 This practice identifies and defines the duties, 2.1 ASTM Standards:2
responsibilities, and minimum technical requirements of test- C31/C31M Practice for Making and Curing Concrete Test
ing agency personnel and the minimum technical requirements Specimens in the Field
for equipment utilized in testing concrete and concrete aggre- C39/C39M Test Method for Compressive Strength of Cylin-
gates for use in construction. drical Concrete Specimens
1.2 This practice provides criteria for the evaluation of the C78/C78M Test Method for Flexural Strength of Concrete
capability of a testing agency to perform designated ASTM test (Using Simple Beam with Third-Point Loading)
methods on concrete and concrete aggregates. It can be used by C117 Test Method for Materials Finer than 75-µm (No. 200)
an evaluation authority in the inspection or accreditation of a Sieve in Mineral Aggregates by Washing
testing agency or by other parties to determine if the agency is C125 Terminology Relating to Concrete and Concrete Ag-
qualified to conduct the specified tests. gregates
C127 Test Method for Relative Density (Specific Gravity)
NOTE 1—Specification E329 provides criteria for the evaluation of and Absorption of Coarse Aggregate (Withdrawn 2024)3
agencies that perform the inspection of concrete during placement. C128 Test Method for Relative Density (Specific Gravity)
1.3 This practice provides criteria for Inspection Bodies and and Absorption of Fine Aggregate
Accreditation Bodies that provide services for evaluation of C136/C136M Test Method for Sieve Analysis of Fine and
testing agencies in accordance with this practice. Coarse Aggregates
1.4 The text of this standard references notes and footnotes, C138/C138M Test Method for Density (Unit Weight), Yield,
which provide explanatory material and shall not be considered and Air Content (Gravimetric) of Concrete
as requirements of this standard. C143/C143M Test Method for Slump of Hydraulic-Cement
Concrete
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the C172/C172M Practice for Sampling Freshly Mixed Con-
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the crete
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro- C173/C173M Test Method for Air Content of Freshly Mixed
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter- Concrete by the Volumetric Method
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. C231/C231M Test Method for Air Content of Freshly Mixed
1.6 This international standard was developed in accor- Concrete by the Pressure Method
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard- C617/C617M Practice for Capping Cylindrical Concrete
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the Specimens
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom- C802 Practice for Conducting an Interlaboratory Test Pro-
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical gram to Determine the Precision of Test Methods for
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee. Construction Materials

1 2
This practice is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee C09 on Concrete For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
and Concrete Aggregates and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee C09.98 on contact ASTM Customer Service at [email protected]. For Annual Book of ASTM
Evaluation of Laboratories. Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
Current edition approved Jan. 1, 2024. Published January 2024. Originally the ASTM website.
3
approved in 1987. Last previous edition approved in 2017 as C1077-17. DOI: The last approved version of this historical standard is referenced on
10.1520/C1077-24. www.astm.org.

*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard

Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States

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 C1077 − 24
C1064/C1064M Test Method for Temperature of Freshly testing agencies should give careful consideration when select-
Mixed Hydraulic-Cement Concrete ing an evaluation authority to gain the most benefit from the
C1231/C1231M Practice for Use of Unbonded Caps in evaluation. In most cases, a testing agency will select an
Determination of Compressive Strength of Hardened Cy- evaluation authority as a result of requirements in a project
lindrical Concrete Specimens specification, or contract, or in response to local codes, or other
D75/D75M Practice for Sampling Aggregates industry requirements. In those circumstances, the require-
D2419 Test Method for Sand Equivalent Value of Soils and ments will stipulate the acceptable evaluation authorities. If
Fine Aggregate there are no specific requirements and the evaluation is in
E4 Practices for Force Calibration and Verification of Test- anticipation of future work or to compete with other local
ing Machines testing agencies, then the agency should contact the organiza-
E11 Specification for Woven Wire Test Sieve Cloth and Test tion(s) most likely to use their services for a list of acceptable
Sieves evaluation authorities. A list of evaluation authorities is pro-
E329 Specification for Agencies Engaged in Construction vided in the Qualification of Personnel and Laboratory Evalu-
Inspection, Testing, or Special Inspection ation section of the Manual of Aggregate and Concrete
E1301 Guide for Proficiency Testing by Interlaboratory Testing.6 The list is merely a collection of organizations willing
Comparisons (Withdrawn 2012)3 to provide this service and is not an endorsement of any
2.2 ACI Standards: particular organization. Other organizations may also be avail-
ACI 214-77 Recommended Practice for Evaluation of able to provide this service.
Strength Test Results of Concrete4 3.2.2 external technical services, n—those services required
2.3 ISO Standards: by a testing agency that are provided by another organization.
ISO 17011 Conformity Assessment—General Requirements 3.2.3 quality systems, n—those internal procedures and
For Accreditation Bodies Accrediting Conformity Assess- practices that an agency utilizes to ensure continued compli-
ment Bodies5 ance with applicable testing standards for concrete and con-
crete aggregates.
3. Terminology
3.2.4 testing agency, n—organization that measures,
3.1 Definitions: examines, performs tests, or otherwise determines the charac-
3.1.1 For definitions of terms used in this practice, refer to teristics or performance of materials or products. This includes
Terminology C125. organizations that offer commercial testing services, an in-
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard: house quality control function, an academic institution, or any
3.2.1 evaluation authority, n—an independent entity, apart other organization providing the required testing services,
from the testing agency being evaluated, that has the capability whether performed in the laboratory or in the field.
to provide an unbiased evaluation of the technical activities of
concrete and concrete aggregates testing agencies in accor- 4. Significance and Use
dance with Annex A1 or Annex A2. 4.1 The testing and inspection of concrete and concrete
3.2.1.1 Discussion—Two acceptable methods of evaluation aggregates are important elements in obtaining quality con-
are inspection and accreditation, and these evaluations are struction. A testing agency providing these services shall be
offered by many evaluation authorities. An inspection is an selected with care.
evaluation of equipment and procedures based on the Test 4.2 A testing agency shall be deemed qualified to perform
Methods and Procedures section, along with a review of the and report the results of its tests if the agency meets the
quality system. An inspection report is the final step in the requirements of this practice. The testing agency services shall
process for an inspection agency. The testing agency being be provided under the technical direction of a registered
evaluated performs corrective actions for any deficiencies professional engineer.
noted, and these corrections are to be placed with the other
inspection documentation as part of the permanent record of 4.3 This practice establishes essential characteristics per-
the inspection. An accreditation agency uses the results of the taining to the organization, personnel, facilities, and quality
inspection report or the results of their own onsite assessment systems of the testing agency. This practice may be supple-
as one phase of the accreditation process. As a separate phase, mented by more specific criteria and requirements for particu-
the accreditation agency also reviews the testing agency’s lar projects.
corrective actions for the deficiencies noted and issues a 5. Organization
certificate of accreditation once all of the deficiencies have
been corrected. There is no universally accepted evaluation 5.1 The following information shall be readily available for
authority in the construction materials testing field; therefore, review:
5.1.1 Description of the organization, including:
5.1.1.1 Complete legal name and address of the main office
4
Available from American Concrete Institute (ACI), P.O. Box 9094, Farmington and each testing agency location,
Hills, MI 48333-9094, http://www.aci-int.org.
5
Available from International Organization for Standardization (ISO), 1, ch. de
6
la Voie-Creuse, Case postale 56, CH-1211, Geneva 20, Switzerland, http:// Manual of Aggregate and Concrete Testing, Annual Book of ASTM
www.iso.ch. Standards, Vol 04.02.

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 C1077 − 24
5.1.1.2 Names and positions of the principal officers and the 6.1.4.4 The certification body shall establish the period of
responsible, registered professional engineer in charge, and certification but not to exceed five years.
5.1.1.3 Description of the testing agency management struc- 6.1.4.5 The period for which the certification is valid shall
ture. be clearly and prominently stated on any documents that attest
5.1.2 Listing of the relevant technical services offered, and to the certification(s) held by the individual.
5.1.3 All external technical services normally utilized.
5.2 The testing agency shall designate an individual with 7. Test Methods and Procedures
access to management who has the responsibility of seeing that 7.1 The testing agency shall be capable of performing the
procedures required in this document are being carried out. required ASTM test methods, guides, or practices in 7.2 and
may request additional evaluation for the optional methods in
6. Personnel Qualifications 7.3 to the extent that those services are provided by the agency.
6.1 Information shall be made available to substantiate 7.2 Required Test Methods and Practices:
personnel qualifications as follows:
7.2.1 For Agencies Testing Concrete:
6.1.1 All relevant testing services shall be provided under
the full-time technical direction of a licensed professional 7.2.1.1 Sampling, Practice C172/C172M,
engineer with at least 5 years experience in construction 7.2.1.2 Slump, Test Method C143/C143M,
materials testing. 7.2.1.3 Unit Weight, Yield, and Air Content, Test Method
6.1.2 Laboratory and field supervisors shall meet the fol- C138/C138M,
lowing requirements: 7.2.1.4 Air Content, Test Method C173/C173M (volumetric
6.1.2.1 Possess at least 3 years relevant experience. method), or Test Method C231/C231M (pressure method), or
6.1.2.2 Shall be certified in the relevant tests required of the both.
personnel they are supervising, as outlined in 6.1.3. 7.2.1.5 Temperature, Test Method C1064/C1064M,
6.1.3 Personnel performing laboratory and field testing shall 7.2.1.6 Making and Curing Test Specimens, Practice C31/
possess current certification(s) that includes a written and C31M,
performance examination for each relevant standard identified
7.2.1.7 Compressive Strength, Test Method C39/C39M,
in 6.1.3.1, 6.1.3.2, and 6.1.3.3 and shall conform to the
requirements identified in 6.1.4. 7.2.1.8 Capping Cylinders, Practice C617/C617M or Prac-
6.1.3.1 Concrete laboratory testing certification(s) shall in- tice C1231/C1231M.
clude the following standards: Test Method C39/C39M and 7.2.2 For Agencies Testing Concrete Aggregates:
Practice C617/C617M or C1231/C1231M. Test Method C78/ 7.2.2.1 Sieve Analysis, Test Method C136/C136M,
C78M is also considered a relevant test if it is included on the 7.2.2.2 Material Finer Than 75-µm (No. 200) Sieve, Test
agency’s list of technical services. Method C117, and
6.1.3.2 Aggregate laboratory testing certification(s) shall 7.2.2.3 Specific Gravity and Absorption, Test Method C127
include the following standards: Test Methods C117, C127, (Coarse Aggregate) and Test Method C128 (Fine Aggregate).
C128, and C136/C136M.
6.1.3.3 Concrete field testing certification(s) shall include 7.3 Optional Test Methods or Practices:
the following standards: Practices C31/C31M and C172/ 7.3.1 Some testing agencies conduct other tests on concrete
C172M, and Test Methods C138/C138M, C143/C143M, C173/ and concrete aggregates in addition to those listed in The
C173M, C231/C231M, and C1064/C1064M. Required Test Methods and Practices Section. These optional
6.1.4 The certification program shall meet the following test methods and practices could include any of the test
criteria: methods or practices developed by Committee C09 and con-
6.1.4.1 The written examination shall be of sufficient length tained in volume 04.02, as well as other related standards such
and detail to cover the test method or practice, including, as as Practice D75/D75M and Test Method D2419. The agency
applicable: the significance of the test or practice, sampling, shall have evidence of proper facilities, equipment, and trained
specimen preparation, procedure, calculations, and reporting of personnel to comply with the applicable test method or
results, practice, if it is included in the scope of services as defined by
6.1.4.2 The performance examination shall include a dem- the agency. The agency and the evaluation authority will
onstration of the test method or practice, to document the mutually agree upon which optional test methods or practices
individual’s ability to correctly perform the procedure in will be included in the agency’s evaluation. The evaluation
accordance with the standard, and authority shall then select which of the optional test methods or
6.1.4.3 The written and performance examinations shall practices offered by the agency need to be demonstrated by the
include all relevant test methods that are listed in the section personnel.
above for the type of individual being certified. 7.4 The testing agency shall use the latest version of each
NOTE 2—A list of certification programs is provided in the Qualification referenced method within one year of its publication unless an
of Personnel and Laboratory Evaluation section of the Manual of earlier version of the standard is required by the client.
Aggregate and Concrete Testing.6 The list is merely a collection of
certification programs and is not an endorsement of any particular 7.5 Testing agency personnel shall have convenient access
program. Other programs may also be available. to applicable standards.

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 C1077 − 24
8. Facilities, Equipment, and Supplemental Procedures be able to document that it obtained the appropriate equipment
8.1 General—The testing agency shall have facilities and and that the equipment was calibrated, standardized, or veri-
equipment conforming to the requirements of the applicable fied.
test method. This section contains equipment requirements and 8.6 All equipment listed in this section shall be calibrated or
procedures that clarify certain provisions of the test methods. verified before being placed in service. Equipment not in
8.2 Procedures Related to Required Test Methods—In addi- operating condition or out of tolerance shall be marked as such
tion to standard test method requirements, the conditions listed and taken out of service until corrected.
in 8.3 and 8.4 shall be met.
9. Testing Agency Records and Reports
8.3 For Agencies Testing Concrete:
9.1 The testing agency shall maintain a system of records
8.3.1 Compressive Strength Testing Machines, shall con-
that permits verification of any issued report.
form to the applicable requirements of Test Method C39/
C39M. 9.2 The records of the testing agency shall contain the
following information:
8.4 For Agencies Testing Concrete Aggregates:
9.2.1 Standard operating procedures for the following:
8.4.1 Sieve Accuracy—Verification of sieve accuracy shall 9.2.1.1 Identification of the test sample,
be performed at least annually on each sieve used in the test for 9.2.1.2 Transfer of the sample from the field to the testing
sieve analysis (Test Methods C117 and C136/C136M). Any facility, and
one of the following three methods of verification is accept- 9.2.1.3 Recording of test results.
able. Each method of sieve verification shall include an 9.2.2 Calibrations or verifications of equipment required by
inspection of the sieve cloth for punctures or obvious defects. the test method for all of the tests offered in the scope of the
8.4.1.1 Verification of each sieve used according to the testing agency’s services. The records shall include:
procedures prescribed in the Annex of Specification E11. 9.2.2.1 The identification of the specific piece of equipment,
8.4.1.2 A comparison of the results of a split sample sieved 9.2.2.2 The identification of the equipment used to perform
on different sieve sets. Results shall be verified for single the calibration or verification,
operator precision to be within the acceptable range of two 9.2.2.3 The name of the individual who performed the
results stated in the test method. calibration or verification,
8.4.1.3 Participation in the sieve analysis test in an aggre- 9.2.2.4 The date the calibration or verification was
gate proficiency sample program, as described in the Quality performed,
Systems section. Results shall be verified for multilaboratory 9.2.2.5 The quantity measured by the equipment (such as
precision to be within the acceptable range of two results stated length, force, or mass), and
in the test method. 9.2.2.6 The associated accuracy of the measurement or a
8.4.2 Mechanical Sieve Shaker—When mechanical sieving comparison of the measured quantity with the associated
devices are used, the period of mechanical agitation shall be allowable tolerances, as necessary to verify that the equipment
checked at least annually for adequacy of sieving as described complies with the requirements in the relevant standards.
in Test Method C136/C136M. Mechanical agitation periods Where additional calibration or verification requirements have
shall be established for each different type of aggregate tested. been listed in the Facilities, Equipment, and Supplemental
NOTE 3—Different types of aggregate refer to shape and composition, Procedures Section, this information shall also be included in
not supplier. For example, agitation periods for elongated materials may the records.
need to be extended, while softer materials that break down easily may 9.2.3 Records on testing agency personnel that document
require a shorter period to minimize alteration of the particle size
distribution. work experience, education, on-the-job training, and methods
used to ensure continued competence in performing the re-
8.4.3 Relative Density (Specific Gravity) and Absorption quired test methods,
Tests—When performing the procedures of Test Methods C127 9.2.4 Audits and inspections by outside agencies and all
and C128, duplicate tests shall be made at least once every 6 reports or certifications, with applicable dates, of any evalua-
months. Results shall be verified for single operator precision tion or accreditations issued by any evaluating authorities,
within the tolerance stated in the respective test method. 9.2.5 The testing agency shall retain results of participation
Participation in a proficiency sample program with relative in proficiency sample programs, including data sheets, sum-
density (specific gravity) and absorption testing is an accept- mary reports and, if low proficiency sample ratings are
able alternative. received, a record of the agency’s investigation into the reason
8.4.4 Balances or scales for all concrete and aggregate tests for the low ratings and corrective action taken.
shall be calibrated annually. 9.2.6 Current standard test methods and other pertinent
8.5 Procedures Related to Optional Test Methods: reference material in a library,
8.5.1 If the applicable test method requires equipment 9.2.7 Identification of the person performing the field and
calibration and does not specify a frequency, then the testing laboratory tests, and
agency shall establish a frequency in its quality assurance 9.2.8 Documents that establish the traceability to an accept-
program and conform thereto. able reference standard or a national standard for load cells,
8.5.2 In the event that the testing agency borrows or rents proving rings, thermometers, test weights, and test equipment
equipment to perform an optional test method, the agency shall used for verification or calibration of testing equipment.

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9.3 Agency test reports shall accurately and clearly present inventory shall include the equipment description, identifica-
the specified test results and all pertinent data. tion number, and next date of calibration or verification.
9.4 Test reports shall include the following information: NOTE 6—The inventory should include equipment such as scales,
9.4.1 Name and address of the testing agency, compression machines, and slump cones. Equipment such as tamping rods
and expendable supplies such as single-use cylinder molds need not be
9.4.2 Identification of the report and the date issued, included on the inventory.
9.4.3 Name of the client,
10.1.1.6 Participation in proficiency sample programs
9.4.4 Project identification,
(PSP). The agency shall participate in concrete or aggregate
9.4.5 Sample identification,
proficiency sample programs or both if the agency performs
9.4.6 Identification of the standard test method used, a testing in both areas. The PSP used shall meet the following
notation of all known deviations from the test method, and all criteria: (1) include a minimum of 10 participants, (2) issue a
requirements of the test method that were not performed by the report that includes the agency’s results, the average of all
testing agency (Note 5), results, the standard deviation of the results, and rating(s) based
9.4.7 Test results and other pertinent data required by the on the number of standard deviations that the agency’s results
standard, vary from the grand average for the test method(s) covered,
9.4.8 Name of the registered professional engineer or his (3a) include at least one of the following methods if the agency
designee, and tests concrete: C39/C39M, C138/C138M, C143/C143M,
9.4.9 Identification of results obtained from tests performed C173/C173M, or C231/C231M; and, (3b) include at least one
by other testing agencies. of the following methods if the agency tests concrete aggre-
9.5 Corrections or additions to reports shall clearly refer- gates: C136/C136M, C127, or C128, (4) be independent of the
ence the report being amended. participating agencies, (5) distribute samples at least once
annually, and (6) maintain a record of all sample test results
9.6 All records required by this standard shall be stored from participants for at least 3 years.
safely for at least 3 years, unless otherwise required by law or
governing specifications. Those records that are confidential in NOTE 7—For additional guidance in selecting a proficiency sample
program the testing agency may wish to consult Guide E1301.
nature, including test reports and other records generated as
required by contract with the client, shall be stored safely in 10.1.2 The testing agency shall establish procedures for
confidence to the client, unless otherwise required by law, responding to low proficiency sample program ratings. Ratings
governing specification, or client requirements. are considered to be low if the agency’s result is beyond two
NOTE 4—There are circumstances when a longer retention period may standard deviations from the grand average on the final report.
be advantageous to the testing agency. Records concerning the calibration, 10.1.3 The testing agency shall establish procedures for
verification, and standardization of equipment are an example. Records of handling technical complaints from clients that includes the
this type are often held throughout the useful life of the equipment.
title or name of the individual responsible for handling the
NOTE 5—Deviation from standard test methods may adversely affect
results. complaint, the review system in the agency and the type of
reply to be issued.
10. Quality Systems 10.1.4 The laboratory shall have a procedure in its quality
system that shall be implemented when it is determined that
10.1 The testing agency shall maintain a quality manual of equipment is out of calibration or testing procedures are found
written procedures for ensuring the quality of the services to be deficient. The laboratory shall halt any work affected by
offered (Note 8). In addition to the following information, each any deficiency until corrective actions have been completed
page in the manual shall contain a preparation or revision date and documented. The laboratory shall review all affected work
to ensure the latest procedure is being followed. performed between the time when the equipment or testing
10.1.1 Internal quality assurance program, including: procedure was last verified and when the deficiency was
10.1.1.1 Personnel training including a description of the discovered. The laboratory shall evaluate the significance of
training program, the method of training, the criteria used, and any deficiency on reported results and, if necessary, notify
the title or name of the individual responsible for administering clients of the possibility of nonconforming test results.
the training, 10.1.5 The testing agency shall establish procedures for
10.1.1.2 Personnel competency evaluations including the ensuring the quality of external technical services, such as:
method of evaluation, the criteria used, and the title or name of calibration services used by the agency, equipment and mate-
the individual responsible for administering the evaluation rials procured by the agency from vendors, and subcontractors
shall be performed at least every 24 months for each test (that is, an agency contracted to perform a standard test method
method the person is certified to perform, or part of a test method). The agency should be able to
10.1.1.3 Equipment calibration and maintenance, demonstrate that the subcontractor is competent and is in
10.1.1.4 A current library including all relevant test compliance with the requirements of the test methods. The
methods, and agency should maintain records of the subcontractor and
10.1.1.5 Inventory of all test equipment requiring both an vendor evaluations. The selection and evaluation criteria for
initial and a subsequent periodic calibration or verification that the subcontractor should include a review of external audits,
is used by the agency to perform the test methods covered by inspections, certifications, and accreditations held by the
this standard and within the agency’s scope of services. The agency.

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NOTE 8—Other recommended quality programs for a testing agency 11.3 The personnel and equipment used by the agency
include: (1) Conducting within-laboratory statistical computations on during the evaluation shall be representative of the personnel
concrete tests. Randomly selecting 10 tests per month and determining the
within-test standard deviation (see ACI 214-77 and Practice C802 for
and equipment available during the period between evalua-
statistical methods); (2) Participation in an interlaboratory proficiency tions. Temporary acquisition of personnel or equipment to
program on concrete tests. A quarterly exchange of samples between enhance the results of the evaluation shall not be permitted.
agencies in accordance with Practice C802 will provide excellent quality
assurance data. 11.4 The testing agency shall provide an initial written
corrective action response within 30 days of receipt of defi-
11. Testing Agency Evaluation ciencies noted in the final report. The agency then will
complete all corrections within 60 days of receipt of the final
11.1 The testing agency shall have its facilities, equipment, report.
personnel, and procedures evaluated at intervals of approxi- 11.4.1 If an inspection service is used, the agency shall
mately 2 years by an evaluation authority to confirm its ability supplement the final report with a statement of corrective
to perform the required tests. actions taken, which is signed by the agency’s professional
11.2 Two methods of evaluation, either inspection or engineer.
accreditation, are acceptable. 11.4.2 If an accreditation service is used, the agency shall
11.2.1 Responsibilities and duties of evaluation authorities report deficiency corrections to the Accreditation Body who
conducting assessments (identified as Inspection Bodies) shall will issue a certificate of accreditation when its requirements
be in accordance with Annex A1. are satisfied.
11.2.2 Responsibilities and duties of evaluation authorities
conducting assessments as part of an accreditation process 12. Keywords
(identified as Accreditation Bodies) shall be in accordance with 12.1 aggregates; concrete; criteria; evaluation; quality as-
Annex A2. surance (QA); testing ; testing agency

ANNEXES

(Mandatory Information)

A1. EVALUATION AUTHORITIES CONDUCTING ASSESSMENTS—INSPECTION BODIES

A1.1 Organization and Management A1.1.4.2 Demonstrations by the trainer of the procedures
used in each of these test methods or practices;
A1.1.1 The Inspection Body shall clearly disclose on the
inspection report any potential conflicts of interest it or its A1.1.4.3 Demonstrations by the trainer of the proper use of
inspection personnel may have with the testing agency being measurement tools (inspection equipment) needed to evaluate
inspected. This shall include any potential conflicts that could testing agency equipment;
be reasonably construed or perceived to impair the impartiality A1.1.4.4 An evaluation by the trainer of the trainee’s ability
of their evaluation. to properly execute the procedures of each test method or
practice and to correctly use the measurement tools;
A1.1.2 The Inspection Body shall be under the direction of A1.1.4.5 At least one month of supervision by the trainer of
a manager who is knowledgeable of the applicable standards onsite testing agency inspection work by the trainee; and
and inspection processes used. A1.1.4.6 A final evaluation by the trainer of the trainee’s
A1.1.3 The Inspection Body shall implement a quality competence to conduct an inspection based on performance
system appropriate to the type of inspections performed. The during the training period.
Inspection Body shall maintain a quality system manual A1.1.5 The Inspection Body shall maintain an evaluation
documenting the procedures and techniques used to accom- program for its inspectors that includes the following:
plish the objectives of its inspection. A1.1.5.1 An annual review of inspection techniques; and
A1.1.3.1 The Inspection Body shall maintain documenta- A1.1.5.2 An annual review of performance based on cus-
tion of instructions and procedures for conducting inspections tomer feedback, including the inspector’s knowledge and
and inspection planning. These current written procedures shall communication during inspections.
be available to inspection personnel. Deviations from written
procedures shall be documented during the conduct of an A1.2 Facilities and Equipment
inspection.
A1.2.1 The Inspection Body shall have the facilities and
A1.1.4 The Inspection Body shall maintain a training pro- equipment necessary to provide effective inspection services to
gram for its personnel that includes the following: its customers.
A1.1.4.1 A review of each test method or practice as listed A1.2.1.1 All equipment used for training and inspections
in the “Required Test Methods and Practices” section; shall be identified and documented.

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 C1077 − 24
A1.2.1.2 All measuring equipment shall be maintained in A1.3.4.2 The inspector shall observe demonstration of tech-
accordance with documented procedures and verified for niques and procedures by testing agency personnel for each test
accuracy before being put into service and at time intervals method or practice presented. At the discretion of the inspector,
defined in the quality system manual. When results from the it is permitted for some procedural aspects of test methods or
measurement equipment are questionable, such equipment practices to be described by agency personnel in lieu of
shall not be used until its accuracy has been verified. demonstration.
A1.2.1.3 Verification or standardization of measuring equip- A1.3.5 The Inspection Body shall review the qualifications
ment shall be traceable to applicable national standards. The and proficiencies of testing personnel of the agency being
frequency of verifications or standardizations shall be in inspected. It is permitted to use a representative sampling to
accordance with the governing standard or the Inspection evaluate proficiency of testing personnel.
Body’s quality system manual. Records of such verifications or
standardizations shall be maintained. A1.3.6 The Inspection Body shall interview selected testing
personnel to evaluate their awareness of test methods and
A1.2.1.4 Reference measurement standards shall be used
practices and their proficiency in performing them.
only for verification or standardization of measuring equip-
ment. The reference measurement standards shall be standard- A1.3.7 The Inspection Body shall review at least the three
ized by a competent body traceable to nationally recognized previous years of records of testing agency participation in
standards. proficiency sample programs as required by this practice.
A1.3.8 The Inspection Body shall review typical data re-
A1.3 Inspection Methods and Procedures
cording procedures and reports generated by the testing
A1.3.1 The Inspection Body shall offer inspection services agency.
for testing agencies at the frequency required in the standard or
as otherwise requested by the testing agency. A1.4 Inspection Reports

A1.3.2 The inspection services shall include either the A1.4.1 The Inspection Body shall issue a final inspection
required concrete or concrete aggregate test methods and report of findings that lists the test methods and practices
practices, or both, listed in 7.2. covered. The inspection report shall note any deficiencies of
testing agency equipment, procedures relative to the pertinent
A1.3.3 The Inspection Body shall provide inspection ser- standards, qualification of testing personnel, and other require-
vices for any optional method requested by the testing agency ments of this standard.
within the scope of its services, provided the agency’s equip- A1.4.1.1 Corrections or additions to an inspection report or
ment and procedures can be assessed in a laboratory setting. the testing agency’s documentation of correction of deficien-
NOTE A1.1—There are some test methods and practices that involve cies shall be retained with the original inspection report.
observation and assessment techniques of uniquely qualified personnel A1.4.1.2 The complete inspection report, including docu-
that may not be possible to be evaluated by inspection personnel.
mentation of actions to correct deficiencies, shall be provided
A1.3.4 The Inspection Body shall evaluate equipment and to an Accreditation Body, when the report of the Inspection
procedures for each test method or practice presented by the Body is used as part of the process for accreditation of a testing
testing agency, agency.
A1.3.4.1 The Inspection Body shall use its equipment to
evaluate the testing agency’s test equipment and verify the A1.5 Statement of Conformance
capability of the agency’s equipment to measure to the toler- A1.5.1 Upon request, the Inspection Body shall provide a
ances specified in the relevant standards. Alternatively, review statement indicating that inspection services were conducted in
of accuracy verification or standardization records is permitted. accordance with this Annex.

A2. EVALUATION AUTHORITIES CONDUCTING ASSESSMENTS—ACCREDITATION BODIES

A2.1 Organization and Management A2.1.3 The Accreditation Body shall maintain a manage-
A2.1.1 The Accreditation Body shall clearly disclose any ment system documenting the processes it uses to accomplish
potential conflicts of interest it or its assessors may have with the objectives of its assessment for accreditation of testing
the testing agency being accredited. This shall include any agencies.
potential conflicts that could be reasonably construed or A2.1.3.1 The management system shall document the
perceived to impair the impartiality of their assessment. duties, responsibilities, and authorities of management and
A2.1.2 The Accreditation Body shall be under the direction assessors. The qualifications of assessors relative to education,
of one or more managers who are knowledgeable on the
applicable standards and accreditation processes used.

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 C1077 − 24
training, work and assessment experience, and scope of exper- the evaluation team shall be qualified and trained for the
tise shall be defined. The system should define what constitutes services to be performed in accordance with the quality system
conflict of interest for assessors. manual of the Accreditation Body.
A2.1.3.2 The management system shall document informa-
A2.2.4 The evaluation team shall review the testing agen-
tion about the assessment and accreditation processes for
cy’s quality manual and conduct an evaluation for conformance
review by users of its accreditation service. The information
with the procedures indicated in the quality manual. The
shall include procedures used for surveillance of accredited
agency’s quality manual shall conform to the requirements of
facilities, if any, and the process to be used by testing agencies
this practice.
for complaints or appeals.
A2.1.3.3 The management system shall document the pro- A2.3 Assessment Reports
cedures used for extending, suspending, withdrawing, or re-
ducing accreditation of testing agencies. The written proce- A2.3.1 The evaluation report of the Accreditation Body
dures shall be available to assessors. Deviations from written shall include:
procedures during the conduct of an assessment shall be A2.3.1.1 An evaluation, including notes on deficiencies
documented. requiring corrective action, of the testing agency’s quality
A2.1.3.4 The management system shall document the poli- manual. This shall include an evaluation of the qualifications
cies for retention of records for assessor personnel and for and testing proficiency of personnel.
assessments. A2.3.1.2 An evaluation, including notes of deficiencies
A2.1.3.5 The management system shall define the process requiring corrective action, of conformance to the standard test
used to inform the public about the status and scope of methods and practices performed by the testing agency, includ-
accredited testing agency facilities. ing the adequacy of equipment and facilities.
A2.1.4 The Accreditation Body shall include the results of A2.3.1.3 An evaluation, including notes on deficiencies
an on-site inspection of testing agency facilities and testing requiring corrective action, of participation in proficiency
personnel as part of the assessment for the accreditation of a sample testing programs.
testing agency facility. A2.3.2 The Accreditation Body shall require the testing
A2.1.5 If the Accreditation Body provides services for agency to respond with documentation of investigations made
on-site inspections of testing agencies, a training program for and corrective actions taken to any deficiencies noted in the
its inspection personnel shall be maintained in accordance with evaluation report.
A1.1.4 and its facilities and equipment shall comply with A1.2.
A2.3.3 The Accreditation Body shall provide the testing
A2.1.6 The Accreditation Body shall maintain a manage- agency a statement on the acceptability of the agency’s
ment review and audit process of its assessors that includes the response and actions taken to address any noted deficiencies.
following: This statement shall be incorporated into the agency’s record
A2.1.6.1 A periodic monitoring of assessors by peers or prior to notification of accreditation.
other means;
A2.1.6.2 An annual review of assessments; and A2.3.4 The Accreditation Body shall provide a certificate or
A2.1.6.3 An annual review of assessor performance based other means recognizing the accredited status of the testing
on customer feedback during the conduct of assessments. agency. The materials and standards for which the agency has
been evaluated and the duration of the accreditation shall be
A2.2 Assessment Methods and Procedures indicated on the certificate or on other means used to recognize
A2.2.1 The Accreditation Body is permitted to use inspec- accreditation.
tion reports from separate Inspection Bodies that comply with A2.4 Statement of Conformance
Annex A1, for the on-site assessment portion of the evaluation.
A2.2.2 If the Accreditation Body performs on-site assess- A2.4.1 Upon request from the user, the Accreditation Body
ment of facilities and personnel as part of the evaluation, those shall provide a statement indicating conformance with the
methods and procedures shall comply with the requirements of provisions of this Annex to perform accreditation of testing
A1.3. agencies.
NOTE A2.1—Accreditation Bodies that have documented compliance
A2.2.3 The Accreditation Body shall assign an evaluation with ISO 17011 are acceptable provided they comply with the provisions
team with a leader for its evaluation services. The members of of this Annex.

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 C1077 − 24
SUMMARY OF CHANGES

Committee C09 has identified the location of selected changes to this practice since the last issue, C1077–17,
that may impact the use of this practice. (Approved January 1, 2024.)

(1) Revised 10.1.1.1. (2) Added 10.1.1.2.

ASTM International takes no position respecting the validity of any patent rights asserted in connection with any item mentioned
in this standard. Users of this standard are expressly advised that determination of the validity of any such patent rights, and the risk
of infringement of such rights, are entirely their own responsibility.

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make your views known to the ASTM Committee on Standards, at the address shown below.

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