In the acquisition of laboratory materials, compliance with international regulations is a decisive factor. It not only guarantees the safety and reliability of the tests but also ensures that the products meet globally recognized standards.
The two most influential entities in this field are ISO (International Organization for Standardization) and ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials). In this article, we analyze the main regulations that directly affect laboratory materials and why they are relevant to your organization.
What is ISO?
The ISO (https://www.iso.org/en/home) is an independent international organization that develops global standards applied to multiple sectors, including the laboratory.
- Ensures compatibility and uniform quality among manufacturers from different countries.
- Promotes user safety and the accuracy of results.
- Their standards are recognized on all continents.
What is ASTM?
ASTM International, founded in the U.S. (https://www.astm.org/), establishes technical standards mainly in materials and testing procedures.
- Very commonly used in research laboratories and industrial production.
- It complements and, at times, specifies more than the ISO standards.
- It focuses on validating testing methods, materials, and strength.
Relevant ISO Standards in Laboratory Equipment
- ISO 4796-1 (https://www.iso.org/standard/63920.html): Laboratory glass flask, specifications for wide-mouth and narrow-mouth containers.
- ISO 1042 (https://www.iso.org/standard/25484.html): Volumetric glass flasks, accuracy and volume requirements.
- ISO 8655 (https://www.iso.org/standard/68796.html): Dosage plunger systems (micropipettes), accuracy and repeatability.
- ISO 3819 (https://www.iso.org/standard/63919.html): Glass beakers, dimensional and strength requirements.
- ISO 3585 (https://www.iso.org/standard/24774.html): Borosilicate glass 3.3, composition specifications and properties.
Relevant ASTM Standards in Laboratory Materials
- ASTM E438 (https://store.astm.org/e0438-92r18.html): Laboratory glass classification (Type I, II, and III).
- ASTM E287 (https://store.astm.org/e0287-02r19.html): Calibrated cylinders, volume specifications, and tolerances.
- ASTM E960 (https://store.astm.org/e0960-93r21.html): Glass fittings with ground joints, strength and fit requirements.
- ASTM E1404 (https://store.astm.org/e1404-94r25.html): Corrosion resistance test in laboratory glass.
- ASTM D1200 (https://store.astm.org/d1200-10r18.html): Testing methods for viscosity (laboratory equipment applied to liquids).
Why are these regulations important?
- Precision and repeatability: ensure reliable results in academic and industrial laboratories.
- Safety: reduce risks of breakage, leaks, or contamination.
- International compatibility: they facilitate the purchase of certified material in different markets.
- Legal compliance: many university and research bids require ISO or ASTM certification.
Key aspects to consider before purchasing laboratory equipment
When selecting flasks, pipettes, burettes, or glass and plastic containers, make sure that:
- They must be manufactured in accordance with applicable ISO and/or ASTM standards.
- The supplier can deliver certificates of conformity.
- Please specify the class of tolerance and traceability (Class A or AS in the case of volumetric glass).
At Comercial Labor, we offer a complete catalog of laboratory materials in accordance with ISO and ASTM standards, with guarantees of traceability and certification for universities, research centers, and industrial laboratories.