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CTS was created in 1971 to meet the growing commercial demand for interlaboratory testing. The firm assembled a
knowledgeable group of people with the expertise to guide the various aspects of interlaboratory programs. A
cooperative effort among CTS, various trade associations, and the National Bureau of Standards (now called the
National Institute of Standards and Technology) led to interlaboratory tests being offered by CTS in the areas of
paper, containerboard and rubber. Over time, other industries came to recognize the value of this testing as well
as the need to develop reliable test procedures. During the 1970s, CTS added color and forensic programs. The 1980s saw
the establishment of a metals program, while the 1990s ushered in a testing program for plastics. Prior to the
start of the new millennium, CTS inaugurated interlaboratory tests for the wine industry.
Over the past 35 years numerous organizations have approached CTS to develop internal testing programs (e.g., to
evaluate performance among multiple plant locations); a few of these grew into industry-wide programs. In other
instances trade associations asked CTS to design programs for their industries. Finally, CTS has created tests to
meet specialized needs, including ones to meet federal legislation, as well as proficiency tests for laboratory
accreditation. Some programs have been discontinued as industry interest waned. Most programs, however, have
existed for at least a decade.
All CTS testing programs have constantly evolved to reflect changes in test methods or methodology. Over time we
have broadened our scope to include international test methods wherever possible. Correspondingly, CTS’ reputation
for quality testing programs has also grown around the world. Today, nearly 25 percent of labs enrolled in CTS programs are
located outside the United States. CTS is committed to helping organizations achieve and maintain excellence in
measurement quality through interlaboratory testing. Meeting this commitment requires that we establish
high standards in all aspects of our business from selecting test materials to maintaining test integrity to
providing responsive customer service.
The CTS interlaboratory testing programs are recognized by several organizations in North America including: the
American Association for Laboratory Accreditation (A2LA); the American Society of Crime Laboratory Directors
Laboratory Accreditation Board (ASCLD/LAB); the National Voluntary Laboratory Accreditation Program (NVLAP); and
the Standards Council of Canada. Memorandums of Understanding exist between these organizations and many others
worldwide. Contact the appropriate organization to determine which CTS tests meet your specific
accreditation/registration requirements.
Of course we also want our own activities to be governed by the highest possible quality standards. Therefore,
CTS maintains compliance with ISO Guide 43-1: 1997, Development and Operation of Laboratory Proficiency Testing Schemes, an
international guideline designed specifically for interlaboratory and proficiency testing providers.
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