Cranfield Impact Centre, a specialist technical facility at Cranfield University, has achieved ISO 17025:2017 accreditation following an extensive audit process. It means Cranfield is one of the only UK universities to hold the accreditation for an impact laboratory facility.

The accreditation – for testing a range of items such as Formula One cars, wheelchairs and coach seats – certifies that laboratories operate competently and generate reports to a high standard. It is awarded by United Kingdom Accreditation Service who conducted a full and thorough inspection and audit process.

Cranfield Impact Centre manager, Dr. Jim Watson, said: “There have been significant developments at our lab over the past few years to keep the facility at the forefront of impact testing.

“I’m very proud that we have now achieved this accreditation – it is testament to the excellence of our highly specialised staff and the unique facility we have here at Cranfield. This is a badge of quality which gives all of the companies we work with confidence in our independence and technical competence.”

Internationally renowned facility

Cranfield Impact Centre is an internationally renowned facility with expertise in impact testing and safety of structures. It is one of just two FIA-approved test centres in the world, used for crash testing Formula One cars.

The Impact Centre also conducts tests using a range of rigs for static and dynamic testing of structures, including wheelchairs, motorcycles, coach seats, medical equipment and structural sub-components.  

The facility was used by the FIA to develop the halo head protection device prior to its adoption in F1 and other motor racing series.

Cranfield Impact Centre was supported in the accreditation process by AvISO consultants.