Abstract
Static electricity represents one of the potential ignition sources for the explosive atmospheres. The test methods for materials, in
general, and especially the test methods for textile fabrics for assessment of the protective performances in static electricity, have
known a permanent evolution alongside newly developed electrostatically dissipative materials. Within the National Institute of
Research and Development for Safety in Mines and Explosion Protection (INCD-INSEMEX) new testing stands had been
developed and new testing methods had been implemented for assessment of the charge dissipative capacity, in accordance with
the European standards requirements. By modernizing the laboratory testing/research-development capacity, the physical tools
for testing of materials are assured, having in view conformity assessment with the European Directives requirements, in the
framework of the Notified Body for Conformity Assessment (OEC-INSEMEX). The paperwork presents aspects regarding
competency testing provided in the RENAR policy for accredited or accrediting-in-progress laboratories, as requirement for
proving and monitoring laboratory competency for testing/calibration in the field for which accreditation was applied for/granted.