ISO 17025 Certification

ISO/IEC 17025:2005 specifies the general requirements for the competence to carry out tests and/or calibrations, including sampling. It covers testing and calibration performed using standard methods, non-standard methods, and laboratory-developed methods. It is applicable to all organizations performing tests and/or calibrations. These include, for example, first-, second- and third-party laboratories, and laboratories where testing and/or calibration forms part of inspection and product certification.

ISO/IEC 17025:2005 is applicable to all laboratories regardless of the number of personnel or the extent of the scope of testing and/or calibration activities. When a laboratory does not undertake one or more of the activities covered by ISO/IEC 17025:2005, such as sampling and the design/development of new methods, the requirements of those clauses do not apply.

Benefits of ISO 17025 Certification

• 1. Having access to more contracts for testing and/or calibration. Some public and private organizations only give contracts to laboratories.
• 2. Improved national and global reputation and image of the laboratory.
• 3. Continually improving data quality and laboratory effectiveness.
• 4. Having a basis for most other quality systems related to laboratories, such as Good Manufacturing Practices and Good Laboratory Practices.