ISO/IEC 17025 - Overview

ISO/IEC 17025 is the global quality standard for testing and calibration laboratories. There are two main clauses in ISO/IEC 17025 – Management Requirements and Technical Requirements. Management requirements are related to the operation and effectiveness of the quality management system within the laboratory, and this clause has similar requirements to ISO 9001. Technical requirements address the competence of staff; testing methodology; equipment and quality; and reporting of test and calibration results.

ISO/IEC 17025-Benefits

There are numerous benefits of implementing ISO/IEC 17025. These include: 

• Improved national and global reputation and image of the laboratory
• Remain competitive in the global economy
• Marketing opportunity
• Ensure quality is the driving force behind business success
• Continually improving data quality and laboratory effectiveness

ISO/IEC 17025: 2017- standard

Keys requirement of ISO/IEC 17025 includes;

Sampling should be performed according to a sampling plan, and all sample details should be documented

Samples should be uniquely identified and the sample integrity should be protected during transport and storage

The quality of test results should be monitored

Test reports should include test results as well as an estimation of the overall measurement uncertainty. The report should also include either detailed information about the sample and test conditions, or a link to a reference document

Records should be properly maintained to ensure data integrity and availability.

All analytical methods and procedures should be validated. This includes methods and procedures for sampling, testing and data evaluation

All routine tasks should be performed according to written procedures.....