Overview
ISO 10545-1:2014 - Ceramic tiles: Sampling and basis for acceptance defines the rules for batching, sampling, inspection and acceptance/rejection of ceramic tiles. It sets out a standardized sampling system (including a double sampling plan) and describes how test results are evaluated so suppliers and buyers can agree objectively on whether a consignment meets the product requirements specified in the relevant ISO 10545 product standards.
Key topics and requirements
- Inspection lots and homogeneity: An inspection lot may consist of one or more homogeneous consignments or subconsignments. Non-homogeneous consignments must be divided unless the parties agree otherwise.
- Sampling procedures: Samples are taken at random from inspection lots; two separate samples are drawn and packaged/sealed independently. The sample size for each property is specified in Table 1 of the standard and varies with test type and tile size.
- Double sampling plan: ISO 10545-1 uses a double sampling approach - initial sample evaluation followed, when necessary, by a second sample. Decisions are made by comparing the number of non-conforming units to acceptance (Ac) and rejection (Re) numbers given in the standard.
- Inspection methods: Two principal evaluation methods are covered:
- By attributes (pass/fail per tile) using acceptance/rejection numbers and double sampling.
- By average (variables) where the mean value of measurements for the sample(s) is compared with specification limits.
- Scope of tests: Sampling criteria apply to properties listed across the ISO 10545 series - dimensions, surface quality, water absorption, modulus of rupture, abrasion resistance, thermal expansion, frost/thermal-shock resistance, crazing, chemical/stain resistance, colour difference, impact resistance, lead/cadmium release, etc.
- Acceptance report: Required contents include a reference to ISO 10545-1, tile description, sampling procedure, inspection-lot constitution, and determination of acceptability for each tested property.
Applications and users
ISO 10545-1 is used for:
- Manufacturer quality control and batch release procedures.
- Buyers, specifiers and procurement teams to define acceptance criteria for deliveries.
- Independent testing laboratories and QA inspectors performing site or lab inspections.
- Construction contractors and façade/tiling installers to validate incoming materials.
- Dispute resolution between supplier and customer over conformity of supplied tiles.
Adopting ISO 10545-1 ensures objective, repeatable sampling and acceptance criteria for ceramic tiles and supports compliance with the broader ISO 10545 test-method series.
Related standards
- ISO 10545 (Parts 2–16) - specific test methods for ceramic tile properties
- ISO 2859-1 - Sampling procedures for inspection by attributes (AQL schemes)
- ISO 3951 - Sampling procedures for inspection by variables
