Lagos pursues global recognition in construction materials testing

By Sodiq Adelakun

The Lagos State Materials Testing Laboratory Agency (LSMTL) has emphasised the need for optimal work performance in achieving International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO) 17025 accreditation on materials testing procedures.

The agency’s General Manager, Mrs. Olayinka Abdul, made this known at a forum in Lagos on Wednesday, stressing that the move would elevate the agency’s status as a globally recognized testing laboratory.

According to Abdul, “ISO 17025 is a standard that outlines the requirements for testing calibration laboratories using the framework of laboratory operations, technical capabilities, equipment, personnel and qualitative system management. Accreditation of our agency is paramount, as it elevates our potentiality in paving the way for ISO certification on best practices.”

The agency also highlighted the need for trained personnel and a stable career path to ensure optimal service delivery and foster the ISO accreditation process.

Mr. Dimeji Folami, CEO of Dominite Management Systems Ltd., emphasised the importance of considering variables such as workforce, internal audit, and management review systems and equipment used for calibration to ensure the success of the accreditation process.

He also stressed the need for periodic internal audit and management review to assess conformities on standards being expected for accreditation of best practices.

The ISO 17025 accreditation will enable the LSMTL to provide globally approved results of materials tests, enhancing reputation and competitiveness in the international construction industry.