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How does a laboratory obtain NIJ approval to conduct body armor testing?
Answer:
To become an NIJ-approved laboratory, the laboratory must submit an application (available from NLECTC) which will be reviewed by NIJ to determine if the laboratory is technically capable of performing the testing. NLECTC will then conduct an on-site inspection that includes witnessing the testing of actual samples, and the laboratory prepares a report of the test and returns the tested samples and report to NLECTC, where they are checked for accuracy. If the laboratory successfully completes all of these requirements, NIJ will issue a letter to the laboratory notifying them that they are an NIJ-approved laboratory, and are authorized to conduct testing in accordance with NIJ Standards. Manufacturers and other interested parties will also be notified of the laboratory's status. NIJ accepts applications from interested laboratories on a continuing basis. Laboratories seeking NIJ-approved status should contact NLECTC at 800-248-2742 or 301-519-5060. It is also important to note that laboratories are appoved to perform testing in accordance with a specific NIJ Standard. A test laboratory must complete a separate application and go through the complete approval process for each NIJ Standard they wish to perform testing for.
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