ISO/IEC 17025 is an international standard that establishes requirements for the competence, impartiality, and consistent operation of testing and calibration laboratories: 

• Purpose

  The standard's purpose is to ensure the accuracy and reliability of testing and calibration results. It also promotes confidence in the operation of laboratories. 

• Whom it applies to

  The standard applies to any organization that performs testing, sampling, or calibration, including: 

  • Universities 

  • Research centers 

  • Governments 

  • Regulators 

  • Inspection bodies 

  • Product certification organizations 

  • Other conformity assessment bodies 

• What it includes

  The standard includes: 

  • Quality management system requirements 

  • Technical requirements to ensure laboratories are equipped to perform specific tests and calibration activities 

  • Requirements for laboratories to demonstrate they operate competently, generate valid results, and plan and implement actions to address risks and opportunities 

• Benefits

  The standard can help laboratories: 

  • Enhance their credibility 

  • Foster trust among clients and regulatory authorities 

  • Demonstrate their commitment to quality, technical proficiency, and scientific rigor 

  • Improve data integrity and security 

  • Streamline document control 

  • Support validation and technical competence 

  • Ensure traceability of measurements 

  • Manage quality control procedures 

  • Support corrective and preventive actions 

  • Automate reporting