The last
version of ISO/IEC 17025 was published in 2005 and, since then, market
conditions and technology have changed. The new version covers technical
changes, vocabulary and developments in IT techniques. It also takes into
consideration the latest version of ISO 9001.
The most popular
standard for the competence of testing and calibration laboratories has just
been updated, taking into account the latest changes in laboratory environment
and work practices. ISO/IEC 17025:2017, General requirements for the competence of testing and calibration
laboratories, is the international reference for laboratories
carrying out calibration and testing activities around the world.
Producing valid
results that are widely trusted is at the heart of laboratory activities.
ISO/IEC 17025:2017 allows laboratories to implement a sound quality system and
demonstrate that they are technically competent and able to produce valid and
reliable results.
ISO/IEC 17025
also helps facilitate cooperation between laboratories and other bodies by
generating wider acceptance of results between countries. Test reports and
certificates can be accepted from one country to another without the need for
further testing, which, in turn, improves international trade.
In order to reflect
the latest changes in market conditions and technology, the new edition of the
standard encompasses the activities and new ways of working of laboratories
today. It covers technical changes, vocabulary and developments in IT
techniques and takes into consideration the latest version of ISO 9001 on
quality management.
Laboratories already accredited to
ISO/IEC 17025:2005 will need to transition their processes to the new
version within a three-year period from the publication date of the new
standard. The Joint ILAC-ISO Communiqué explains
this timeframe transition.
ISO/IEC 17025:2017 was developed
jointly by ISO and the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) under
the responsibility of the ISO Committee on conformity assessment (CASCO).
What
are the main changes in the 2017 version?
· The scope has been
revised to cover testing, calibration and sampling associated with subsequent
calibration and testing.
· The process approach now
matches that of newer standards such as ISO 9001 (quality management),
ISO 15189 (quality of medical laboratories) and ISO/IEC 17021-1
(requirements for audit and certification bodies).
· The standard has now a stronger
focus on information technologies and incorporates the use of computer
systems, electronic records and the production of electronic results and reports.
· A new chapter introduces the
concept of risk-based thinking.
Source: https://www.iso.org/news/ref2250.html