Scope and Applicability of the Proficiency Testing Scheme

Proficiency Testing PTS 26/03-T-2 “Testing of Asphalt Pavement – Surface Irregularities” is primarily intended for implementation within the Republic of Bulgaria.

This limitation is of a technical and organizational nature and is not related to participant eligibility or any form of discrimination. The scheme is conducted as a sequential on-site proficiency testing scheme, in which all measurements are performed at a single designated test location on a real pavement section. Participation requires the physical presence of the laboratory’s personnel and the use of their own technical equipment (straightedge and wedge or automated planograph), transported to the test site.

Due to the on-site nature of the measurements, the logistical constraints associated with the transport of equipment, and the need to perform the testing under the specific conditions defined for the scheme and in relation to EN 13036-7, participation of laboratories outside the Republic of Bulgaria is generally not practical.

The scheme is organized and conducted in full compliance with ISO/IEC 17043:2023 and ISO 13528:2022, ensuring equal testing conditions, comparability of results, and objective evaluation of participant performance.

Notwithstanding the above, laboratories outside the Republic of Bulgaria that express an interest in participation may submit an inquiry to the PT provider by email. Such inquiries will be reviewed individually and, where participation is found to be technically and organizationally feasible, the applicant will be admitted to the scheme under the same conditions applicable to laboratories participating from the Republic of Bulgaria.