ISO 17025, or the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) standard 17025, is an internationally recognized standard for testing and calibration laboratories. It provides a framework for developing and managing laboratory quality systems to ensure consistent and reliable results. In this article, we will explore the development of ISO 17025 and the key organizations involved.
to ISO
The ISO is an independent, non-governmental international organization that develops standards to ensure the quality, safety, and efficiency of various processes and products. It brings together experts from different countries and industries to develop consensus-based standards that are globally accepted.
Development of ISO 17025
The development of ISO 17025 began in the early 1990s as a response to the growing need for internationally recognized quality standards for testing and calibration laboratories. The initial version, ISO/IEC Guide 25, was published in 1990. However, this guide was only applicable to testing laboratories.
In 1999, ISO/IEC Guide 25 was replaced with ISO/IEC 17025, which expanded the scope to include both testing and calibration laboratories. This revision was necessary to align with the ISO 9000 series, a set of standards for quality management systems.
Key organizations involved
Several key organizations contributed to the development of ISO 17025:
The International Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation (ILAC): ILAC is an international organization that promotes the recognition of laboratory accreditation bodies worldwide. It played a vital role in harmonizing accreditation practices for testing and calibration laboratories.
The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC): The IEC is an international organization that develops standards for electrical, electronic, and related technologies. It collaborated with ISO to ensure that ISO 17025 aligns with IEC standards in relevant areas.
The International Organization for Legal Metrology (OIML): OIML is an intergovernmental organization that develops international recommendations and requirements for legal metrology. It contributed its expertise in metrological aspects to the development of ISO 17025.
In conclusion, ISO 17025 is a globally recognized standard for testing and calibration laboratories. Its development involved collaboration between various organizations such as ILAC, IEC, and OIML. By adhering to ISO 17025, laboratories can demonstrate their competence and reliability in producing accurate and consistent results.
Nina She