Testing, Sampling and Subcontracting

Food inspection may involve sampling, measurement, review of laboratory results or limited use of external technical resources. Guardian Assessment Pvt. Ltd. manages these activities so that the inspection conclusion remains based on reliable evidence and clearly assigned responsibilities.

Guardian's inspection accreditation is currently under process. References to ISO/IEC 17020 or ISO/IEC 17025 describe the framework Guardian seeks to apply and do not constitute a claim that Guardian's inspection services are already accredited.

Inspection examines an item, process, facility or service and may determine conformity with specified requirements. Testing determines one or more characteristics using a defined technical method.

Where laboratory results support an inspection conclusion, the inspection report will identify their role where necessary. Guardian does not represent an external laboratory's test as having been performed by Guardian.

Where sampling forms part of the agreed inspection, Guardian will define or agree, as applicable:

• the lot, batch, consignment or population to be sampled;
• the sampling method and sample size;
• sampling location and date;
• sample identification and sealing;
• environmental or hygiene precautions;
• chain-of-custody arrangements;
• transport and storage conditions;
• laboratory destination;
• retained-sample arrangements; and
• disposal or return of samples.

Sampling limitations are recorded where they may affect interpretation. A sample represents the defined lot only to the extent supported by the sampling plan and conditions. Client interference with sample selection, sealing or custody may invalidate or limit the activity.

When laboratory testing is required to support inspection, Guardian gives preference to laboratories accredited to ISO/IEC 17025 for the relevant test and method. Guardian verifies that the laboratory's accredited scope covers the required activity and does not rely only on the laboratory's general claim of accreditation.

Where an appropriately accredited laboratory is not reasonably available, Guardian will document how competence and suitability are evaluated before accepting results, subject to applicable law, scheme rules and client agreement.

Where testing is witnessed at a client or supplier location, Guardian will consider:

• competence of the person performing the test;
• suitability and status of the equipment;
• use of a valid method;
• environmental conditions;
• identification of the tested item; and
• completeness and integrity of the recorded result.

Witnessing a test is not the same as Guardian performing or accrediting the laboratory test.

Guardian intends to perform inspection activities using its own authorized resources. Subcontracting of part of an inspection may occur only for justified reasons, such as an unforeseen workload, need for specialized expertise, geographic constraints or temporary incapacity.

Guardian will not routinely subcontract an entire inspection scope for which it lacks competence or resources while presenting the work as its own capability.

Before subcontracting inspection work, Guardian will:

• confirm that subcontracting is permitted by the contract, law and applicable scheme;
• inform the client and obtain approval where required;
• evaluate the subcontractor's competence, independence and resources;
• confirm that the subcontractor meets appropriate inspection-body requirements;
• verify that any accreditation relied upon covers the required activity;
• establish confidentiality and reporting requirements; and
• retain records of evaluation and monitoring.

Guardian remains responsible for determining whether external results can be used in its inspection conclusion, except where the client or a regulator directly appoints a provider and the contract expressly allocates responsibility differently.

Use of a laboratory, technical expert or subcontractor does not relieve Guardian of its responsibility to clearly identify the basis, scope and limitations of its own inspection report.