Technical Articles

THE IMPORTANCE OF USING AN ISO/IEC 17025 ACCREDITED LABORATORY

ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation is the single most important standard for calibration and testing laboratories around the world. ISO 17025 accredited laboratory’s have demonstrated that they are technically proficient and able to produce precise and accurate test and calibration data. This is a voluntary, third party-reviewed process that ensures a laboratory’s quality management system is thoroughly evaluated on a regular basis to guarantee continued technical competence and compliance with ISO 17025.

Laboratory accreditation bodies use the ISO 17025 standard specifically to assess factors relevant to a laboratory’s ability to produce precise, accurate test 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

To ensure continued compliance, accredited laboratories are regularly re-assessed to check that they are maintaining their standard of technical expertise. These laboratories are also required to participate in regular proficiency testing programs as an ongoing demonstration of their competence.

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