Initial inspections, third-party monitoring, and audits in accordance with the quality and testing regulations of the RAL Quality Association

As a testing laboratory accredited by the RAL Quality Association for Plastic Surfaces in Outdoor Sports Facilities e. V., the Lehmacher Schneider Laboratory is authorized to conduct initial testing, third-party monitoring, as well as laboratory and field tests in accordance with the quality and testing specifications of RAL-GZ 943.

We support manufacturers, system providers, sports field contractors, and public clients in ensuring the quality of synthetic surfacing throughout the entire product life cycle - from development and manufacturing through installation to renovation, removal, and recycling.

Quality According to Clearly Defined Standards

The RAL quality assurance program aims to ensure consistently high quality standards for synthetic surfacing and its components. In addition to performance characteristics for sports use, the program focuses in particular on material quality, environmental compatibility, durability, and professional installation.

This quality assurance covers all aspects of a modern synthetic surfacing system - from the production of individual components through installation and maintenance to the recycling of the materials used.

Our Testing Services

As part of RAL quality monitoring, we perform the following, among other services:

• Initial inspections for the award of the RAL quality mark
• Regular third-party inspections
• Factory audits and production controls
• Construction site audits during construction
• Sampling at the manufacturer’s facility and on the construction site
• Laboratory tests and material analyses
• Field tests on installed plastic flooring
• Documentation and preparation of test reports in accordance with standards
• Support for certification and quality assurance procedures

Our experts conduct the necessary tests directly at the manufacturer’s facility, on construction sites, or at completed sports facilities - nationwide and internationally.

Quality Mark Categories Under RAL-GZ 943

The Quality Association distinguishes between various areas of the manufacture, installation, and quality assurance of synthetic surfacing:

RAL-GZ 943/1 – Synthetic Surfaces

Testing and monitoring of synthetic surfacing for outdoor sports facilities.

RAL-GZ 943/2 – Renovation (Retopping)

Quality assurance for the renovation and replacement of existing synthetic surfaces.

RAL-GZ 943/3 – Fall Protection Surfaces

Testing of fall protection systems for playgrounds and recreational facilities.

RAL-GZ 943/4 – Methods for Ensuring Sports and Safety Performance

Monitoring of procedures for the long-term preservation of the sports-related functional properties of synthetic surfaces.

RAL-GZ 943/5 – Repair of synthetic surfaces

Quality assurance for restoration and repair measures.

RAL-GZ 943/6 – Removal and Recycling

Inspection and monitoring of the proper removal, material recovery, and recycling of synthetic flooring.

RAL-GZ 943/7 – Filtration of wastewater

Quality assurance of processes for the treatment and filtration of wastewater and process water in connection with plastic flooring.

Everything from a Single Source

As an independent testing laboratory, Labor Lehmacher Schneider brings together all quality assurance services under one roof. From sampling and laboratory testing to factory audits, on-site inspections, and regular third-party monitoring, our clients have a single point of contact for all requirements of RAL-GZ 943.

Our experienced experts support projects both nationally and internationally, ensuring reliable and traceable quality assurance through state-of-the-art testing technology, standard-compliant testing procedures, and independent evaluation.

Why Labor Lehmacher Schneider?

✔ Accredited testing laboratory of the RAL Quality Association for Plastic Surfaces in Outdoor Sports Facilities e. V.
✔ Initial testing and regular third-party monitoring
✔ Factory audits and construction site audits
✔ Laboratory and field testing from a single source
✔ In-house sampling and material analysis
✔ National and international projects
✔ Over 40 years of experience in testing and quality assurance for sports facilities

Our combination of an accredited RAL testing laboratory, a DIN EN ISO/IEC 17025-accredited testing laboratory, an expert consulting firm, and a globally active auditor enables comprehensive quality assurance - from initial testing and regular third-party monitoring to technical support for international projects.