What is 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 specifies the general requirements for the competence to carry out tests and/or calibrations, including sampling. It covers testing and calibration performed using standard methods, non-standard methods, and laboratory-developed methods.

ISO 17025 is for use by laboratories in developing their management system for quality, administrative and technical operations. Laboratory customers, regulatory authorities and accreditation bodies may also use it in confirming or recognizing the competence of laboratories

Why ISO 17025:2017 accreditation is important?

Testing & calibration is used in many industries but offering testing & calibration  as a professional service requires that any type of measurement, sampling or calibration laboratory pass through the process of accreditation. When it comes to the accreditation, the company is obligated to show conformity to the ISO 17025 standard.

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.

The ISO 17025 accreditation is the most important standard for testing and/or calibration laboratories. It confirms that a particular laboratory is able to produce precise and accurate test results and calibration data, including:

• Traceability of measurements and calibrations to national standards
• Technical competence of staff
• Maintenance of test equipment
• Quality assurance of test and calibration data
• Validity and appropriateness of test methods
• Appropriate handling and transportation of test items
• Quality of testing environment and sampling

What are the benefits of ISO 17025:2017 accreditation?

• Improve your reputation in the market
• Having access to more contracts for testing and/or calibration.
• Improved national and global reputation and image of the laboratory.
• Create new business connections worldwide
•  Continually improving data quality and laboratory effectiveness.
• Having a basis for most other quality systems related to laboratories, such as d Good Laboratory Practices.
• Laboratory gains a strong competitive edge.

Who can acquire ISO 17025:2017 ?

ISO 17025 is applicable to all laboratories regardless of the number of personnel or the extent of the scope of testing and/or calibration activities. These include, for example, first-, second- and third-party laboratories, and laboratories where testing and/or calibration forms part of inspection and product certification.

Is ISO 17025:2017 accreditation obligatory?

Is ISO 17025:2017 accreditation obligatory?

ISO 17025 Certification is a standard provided for laboratories to provide consistent valid results and improve their functioning. It is not a mandatory Certification but it has its advantages and rewards..

What is the validity ISO 17025:2017 accreditation?

Certificates are valid for a 2-year accreditation cycle.