What is ISO 17025 Accreditation?

What is ISO 17025?

ISO 17025 is a quality management system and the primary standard for testing and calibration laboratories. While it shares many similarities with ISO 9000, ISO 17025 specifically assesses technical competence in lab testing and calibration services. This standard applies to organizations that produce testing and calibration results.

What Does Accreditation Mean?

Achieving ISO 17025 accreditation involves a thorough evaluation of the laboratory’s quality management system and technical competence by a third-party. Regular audits are conducted to maintain this accreditation, which can only be granted by an authorized accreditation body. Accreditation signifies that the laboratory has met the Management and Technical Requirements of ISO 17025 and is considered technically competent to produce reliable calibration and testing results.

Why is it Important to Calibrate Your Instruments in an ISO 17025 Accredited Lab?

ISO 17025 accreditation demonstrates that a laboratory has an effective quality management system and possesses the necessary competence to provide accurate testing and calibration results. Accredited labs perform tests according to international standards (ISO 17025), ensuring that results are mutually acceptable across different governmental and regulatory organizations. The agreement among accreditation bodies ensures that accredited members’ test results meet the same minimum quality standards, and the calibration results are recognized as valid, regardless of the specific accreditation body.