Testing And Calibration Laboratories

ISO/IEC 17025 – Testing & Calibration Laboratories

ISO/IEC 17025 specifies the requirements for the competence, impartiality, and consistent operation of testing and calibration laboratories. The standard applies to laboratories performing testing, calibration, and sampling activities, regardless of size or sector.

Accreditation to ISO/IEC 17025 by the International Directorate of Accreditation (IDA) confirms that a laboratory operates in accordance with internationally accepted technical and management requirements and is capable of producing valid and reliable results.

Purpose of ISO/IEC 17025 Accreditation

ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation provides assurance that a laboratory:

• is technically competent for defined testing or calibration activities
• applies appropriate and validated methods
• uses suitable and properly maintained equipment
• ensures measurement traceability
• evaluates and controls measurement uncertainty
• operates impartially and maintains confidentiality

Accreditation demonstrates confidence in laboratory results for regulatory, commercial, and contractual use.

Role of International Directorate of Accreditation (IDA)

The International Directorate of Accreditation (IDA) assesses and accredits testing and calibration laboratories in accordance with ISO/IEC 17025 through an independent and structured evaluation process.

IDA accreditation confirms that a laboratory:

• complies with the requirements of ISO/IEC 17025
• employs competent technical personnel
• maintains effective control over testing and calibration activities
• implements a management system supporting consistent performance
• continually monitors and improves its operations

Assessments include document review, on-site evaluation, technical witnessing, and ongoing surveillance.

Scope of Accreditation

ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation may be granted for laboratories performing activities such as:

• chemical, biological, and microbiological testing
• food, agriculture, and environmental analysis
• mechanical, electrical, and material testing
• calibration of measuring instruments
• sampling and field testing

Accreditation is issued for a defined scope that clearly identifies the tests, calibrations, and methods covered.

Key Areas Evaluated During Accreditation

IDA evaluates both technical competence and management system implementation, including:

• competence and training of personnel
• suitability and validation of methods
• control and calibration of equipment
• handling of samples and test items
• assurance of result validity
• control of records, data, and reports
• internal audits, corrective actions, and management review

Benefits of ISO/IEC 17025 Accreditation

For laboratories

• Demonstrates technical competence
• Enhances confidence among customers and regulators
• Improves consistency and reliability of results
• Supports market acceptance and regulatory compliance

For customers and authorities

• Confidence in laboratory data
• Reduced technical risk
• Reliable basis for decision-making

Accreditation Process

The IDA accreditation process typically includes:

1. Application and definition of scope
2. Review of documented systems and methods
3. On-site assessment
4. Witness assessment of laboratory activities
5. Independent accreditation decision
6. Surveillance and periodic reassessment

Impartiality and Confidentiality

IDA operates with a commitment to impartiality, independence, transparency, and confidentiality. All accreditation decisions are based solely on objective evidence of conformity with ISO/IEC 17025 requirements.