The objectives of this project were to:
- effectively manage and implement the Acquis Communautaire in conformity assessment
- achieve mutual recognition of the services provided by the Malta Standards Authority in the fields of accreditation, metrology, technical regulatory and conformity assessment
- improve the implementation of the procedures envisaged in Directive 98/34/EC as amended by Directive 98/48/EC.
Results
- Staff of the National Accreditation Body (NAB-MSA) properly trained in European Cooperation for Accreditation (EA) Multilateral Agreement (MLA) activities. Malta signs the MLA.
- Implementation of a system to coordinate the operation of the NAB-MSA and the Consumer & Industrial Goods Directorate of MSA in the field of notified bodies and conformity assessment bodies.
- Development and implementation of an accreditation scheme for certification system providers providing electronic signatures.
- MSA is capable of managing EMAS as the National Competent Body and NAB-MSA is capable of administering the accreditation scheme of EMAS verifiers. The EMAS scheme developed in Malta is successfully peer evaluated by the FAB
- Development of the GLP scheme in Malta, including solutions on how to administer the monitoring of laboratories, and the establishment of a close link with a GLP monitoring authority in another EU Member state.
- Documentation prepared, including internal audits and management review meeting of the certification services. By the end of the project, standard operating procedures will be drafted, pilot tested, and implemented. Staff within MSA will be trained is lead assessors in European standards bodies and acquire experience in ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 (both locally and in Europe) so that the certification service qualifies for accreditation.
Next steps
- To set up the necessary infrastructure in Malta, including the supporting documentation, to run the EU ECO label scheme, organic product certification and designation of origin and certificates of specific character.
- To conduct peer evaluations of technical competences by Euromet NMI specialists in the area of work of MSA-National Metrology Services and execute an accreditation preliminary visit in those services being offered to metrology services clients.
- Raise more awareness amongst the regulators of their obligations and rights under the 98/34 procedure.
