ISO 17025:2017 - Testing & Calibration Laboratory Accreditation
ISO 17025:2017 is the main standard used by testing and calibration laboratories. This International Standard specifies the general requirements for the competence to carry out the test and/or calibrations, including samplings. ISO 17025 is simple and easy to understand, and connects the laboratory quality management system to all other laboratory processes. Laboratories use ISO 17025 to implement a quality system aimed at improving their ability to consistently produce valid results.
It applies directly to those organisations that produce testing and calibration results. This international standard is applicable to all organizations performing tests and or Calibrations. These include first, second and third party laboratories, and laboratories where testing and/or calibration forms part of inspection and product certification”.
Benefits of ISO 17025:2017
- Having access to more contracts for testing and/or calibration. Some public and private organizations only give contracts to accredited laboratories. Accreditation will also help to get more contracts from organizations that don’t mandate accreditation, but do give preference to accredited laboratories in competitive situations.
- Improved national and global reputation and image of the laboratory.
- Continually improving data quality and laboratory effectiveness.
- Having a basis for most other quality systems related to laboratories, such as Good Manufacturing Practices and Good Laboratory Practices.
