An Experts Opinion on How to Obtain the ISO 17025 Certification?
Reliability of all reports generated by testing and calibration laboratories is a growing concern due to numerous flaws that have been discovered by authoritative bodies and customers. Nevertheless, there is increasing competition as the demand for testing laboratories is consistently high. Obtaining the ISO 17025 certification is a wise option to remain competitive against rival enterprises as well as keeping your customer satisfaction high. This accreditation offers several benefits including global recognition, increased exposure, level revenue margins, and a strong brand.
Most companies are aware of the significance of this global standard. However, common question like how to obtain the ISO 17025 certification” remain.Several answers can be found online and offline, however only a few sites can provide you with genuine and relevant answers. If the process is simple and well-comprehended, it is more likely for the management team to implement this standard along with being 100% compliant.
Obtaining the ISO 17025 certification involves several key steps, as this standard sets out specific requirements to ensure competency of all testing and calibration laboratories. The following blog will discuss the basic and most common best procedures that can be applied to ensure completion of this certification in a very simple manner.
What is the process and how to obtain the ISO 17025 certification?
Before any certification audit, which usually conducted by a third-party, there are some crucial assessments and monitoring that must be in place streamlined.
The Process
Understand the Standard
• Familiarize yourself with the ISO/IEC 17025:2017 standard. This includes understanding the general requirements for competency, impartiality, consistency, and the application of systematic processes.
Gap detection and analysis
• Detecting differences between your current system’s efficiency and objectives is a pivotal phase of the certification process. A gap analysis will help you to better identify the areas that are responsible for the flaws within your current system.
• A root-cause analysis is necessary to conduct so you can identify non-conformities and problems.
• Your management team will have a better opportunity to establish and outline a proper roadmap towards an effective implementation.
Quality Management System (QMS) Implementation
• Establish and implement a Quality Management System (QMS) that meets all requirements of the ISO 17025. This includes developing documented procedures, work instructions, and policies.
Personnel Competence
• Ensure that your laboratory staff is competent and qualified for their assigned tasks. This involves defining job roles, providing necessary training, and maintaining records of competence.
Documentation and control of the documents
• Documenting each management phase for effectuating the testing system is necessary for contingency planning.
• There should be a robust plan and system in place to control and maintain security of all documents which contain sensitive information regarding procedures, manuals, and other relevant records.
Infrastructure and equipment
• No one can generate reliable test results if their company lacks or has not updated their full infrastructure, facilities and equipment.
• The management team must check the basic maintenance schedule of its tools and devices.
Method validation
• The testing and calibration procedures must be validated before the registration.
Sampling
This includes appropriate handling, identification, and transportation of the samples which are the key aspects for determining results.
Uncertainty of Measurement
• Assess and document any measurable risks associated with your testing and calibration activities. This involves establishing and maintaining procedures for estimating uncertainty.
Traceability of Measurements
• Ensure traceability of all measurements in accordance with all national or international standards. This includes maintain records of calibration for measurement standards.
Internal audit
• It is conducted in order to add value by identifying areas of non-conformity.
• Internal audits help address areas that require correction.
• It can test the effectiveness of your modified system as well.
Readiness review
• A questionnaire is prepared and a meeting between the management team and all other stakeholders will be conducted in order to share opinions.
• The final readiness and compliance of your management system should be determined before your system registration is finalized.
To find experienced and professional support for obtaining the ISO quality management system standards and meet all internal audit requirements, contact us at Compliancehelp Consulting LLC. We are premier firm that can assist you in achieving any ISO certification in the US. Our bespoke solutions for all ISO and other global certifications are standing by to make this seemingly exhausting accreditation process, comfortable and timely. From basic consultation to audit and analysis, we will cover everything. Get help answering all your questions regarding the clauses of any management system standard you require.