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IPS Testing Achieves ISO Certification for Incontinence Product Testing

May 13th, 2015

IPS Testing has recently expanded its ISO 17025 certification and is now certified to test diaper and incontinence products according to the following methods:

  • Rate of Acquisition
  • Rewet
  • Breathability
  • Retention Capacity
  • Elasticity

Founded in 1989, IPS Testing has been evaluating absorbent products for many years and chose to pursue this ISO certification to assist the efforts of the National Association for Continence (NAFC) as well as the manufacturers that target the institutional market to ensure minimum performance standards for incontinence products are met via standardized testing. Additionally, several states require manufacturers to submit products to an independent laboratory that is ISO 9001 compliant if they wish to participate in reimbursement programs.

The company sought out the more rigorous ISO 17025 certification as it means, beyond good laboratory practices, that IPS Testing is certified to complete the particular tests indicated within the scope.

According to Chris Reitmeyer, vice president of IPS Testing, “This type of testing is important as it is designed to quantify key performance measures of incontinence products such as retention capacity.” He continued, “Doing these tests helps ensure that customers are receiving a quality product and that purchasers are receiving good value.”

Reitmeyer noted that the adult incontinence market will continue to grow because of the aging baby boomer population. He said that product testing is expected to expand due to this market growth as well as state requirements related to quality.

IPS Testing’s expansion of the ISO 17025 scope to include incontinence product testing will also be beneficial for National Brand Equivalency (NBE) purposes. This NBE testing is performed for retailers and big box stores to aid in the selection of suppliers for store brands.

Reitmeyer explained, “Many of the same manufacturers that supply the institutional market also cater to the store brand segment.” He added, “The test methods applied and ISO accreditation achieved will support this dual purpose.”

About NAFC

For over 30 years, The National Association For Continence has been the largest and most prolific consumer advocacy organization devoted exclusively to incontinence. NAFC is focused on education, collaboration and patient support, as well as increasing awareness of the various solutions associated with bladder and bowel health, NAFC is a non-profit 501(c) 3 organization.