What is ISO/IEC 17025-2:2016 ?

Title: A Comprehensive Guide to ISO/IEC 17025-2016: The Key to Accurate and Reliable Testing and Calibration

Introduction:

ISO/IEC 17044:2016 is an international standard that outlines the general requirements for proficiency testing providers. However, for testing and calibration laboratories, there is another important standard that should be considered - ISO/IEC 17025:2017. This standard is specifically designed to address the competence of testing and calibration laboratories. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive understanding of ISO/IEC 17025:2017 and its significance in ensuring the accuracy and reliability of testing and calibration results.

Why is the standard called ISO/IEC 17025:2017 and not ISO 17025:2017?

When it comes to testing and calibration, there is a lot of confusion surrounding the naming of the standard. While ISO 9001 is a well-known international standard for quality management systems, ISO/IEC 17025:2017 is the standard that addresses the competence of testing and calibration laboratories. The reason for the different names is that ISO 9001 is more focused on the overall management system, while ISO/IEC 17025:2017 is focused specifically on the laboratory's technical capabilities.

Key Requirements of ISO/IEC 17025:2017

ISO/IEC 17025:2017 is a comprehensive standard that outlines the key requirements for testing and calibration laboratories. These requirements are designed to ensure the accuracy and reliability of testing and calibration results. Here are some of the key requirements of ISO/IEC 17025:2017:

1. Accuracy: The standard requires that testing and calibration laboratories must ensure the accuracy of their results. This means that the results of the tests and measurements must be close to the true value.

2. Reliability: The standard also requires that testing and calibration laboratories must ensure the reliability of their results. This means that the results of the tests and measurements must be consistent and repeatable.

3. Validity: The standard specifies the types of tests and measurements that are valid for measuring the laboratory's competencies.

4. Proficiency: The standard defines the level of proficiency that a testing and calibration laboratory must have in order to meet the requirements of the standard.

5. Documentation: The standard requires that testing and calibration laboratories maintain records of their testing and calibration activities. These records must include information about the tests and measurements, the results, and any issues that arose during the testing process.

Conclusion:

ISO/IEC 17025:2017 is an essential standard for testing and calibration laboratories. By complying with the requirements of this standard, laboratory can demonstrate their competence and integrity, instilling confidence in their clients and stakeholders. While ISO 9001 is also important for overall quality management systems, ISO/IEC 17025:2017 is specifically focused on the laboratory's technical capabilities, and is an essential component in ensuring accurate and reliable testing and calibration results.