What is ISO standard for laboratory?

ISO stands for International Organization for Standardization, an independent, non-governmental international organization that develops and publishes standards. In the field of laboratory testing and calibration, ISO has developed a standard known as ISO/IEC 17025:2017.

Understanding ISO/IEC 17025:2017

ISO/IEC 17025:2017 is the global standard for the competence of testing and calibration laboratories. It sets out the criteria for laboratories to demonstrate their technical proficiency, impartiality, and consistency in producing accurate and reliable results. The standard covers both management system requirements and technical requirements.

Management System Requirements

The management system requirements of ISO/IEC 17025 focus on ensuring that the laboratory operates efficiently, effectively, and in compliance with regulatory and customer requirements. This includes establishing and maintaining a quality management system, document control procedures, implementing personnel competence measures, managing equipment, facilities, and environmental conditions, and addressing risks and opportunities.

Technical Requirements

The technical requirements of ISO/IEC 17025 address the competence of laboratory personnel, the validity and traceability of measurement results, the maintenance of test equipment, the handling and storage of test items, and the reporting of test and calibration results. It requires laboratories to have qualified and experienced staff, validated testing methods, proper documentation of procedures, and effective systems for verifying the correctness of results.

Compliance with ISO/IEC 17025 is not mandatory, but it provides laboratories with a framework to improve their quality and competency, enhance customer confidence, and gain recognition internationally. Laboratories that conform to this standard can also participate in proficiency testing programs and achieve accreditation from accreditation bodies, further demonstrating their technical competence and reliability.

So, if you come across a laboratory that adheres to ISO/IEC 17025:2017, you can be assured of their commitment to quality and reliable testing and calibration services.