ISO 17025 is an international standard that specifies the general requirements for the competence of testing and calibration laboratories. It is crucial for laboratories to maintain ISO 17025 accreditation in order to demonstrate their capability to produce accurate and reliable results. In this article, we will explore some key aspects of maintaining ISO 17025.
Evidence-based quality management
An essential part of maintaining ISO 17025 accreditation is adopting an evidence-based approach to quality management. This involves establishing processes that ensure the validity and reliability of test results. Laboratory personnel should document and provide evidence for all activities related to testing procedures, equipment maintenance, and personnel training.
A comprehensive quality management system should be implemented to monitor and control the effectiveness of these processes. Regular audits, both internal and external, should be conducted to identify areas for improvement and to ensure compliance with ISO 17025 requirements.
Calibration and equipment maintenance
Accurate test results heavily rely on the proper calibration and maintenance of laboratory equipment. Laboratories must have a system in place to ensure that measurement instruments are regularly calibrated and checked for accuracy. Calibration records should be well-documented and easily traceable.
In addition to calibration, preventive maintenance of equipment is crucial in maintaining ISO 17025 accreditation. Regular inspection, cleaning, and servicing are required to ensure optimal performance of equipment. Any deviations or repairs should be promptly addressed, and records should be maintained to demonstrate the history of equipment maintenance.
Competence and continuous training
Personnel competence is a vital factor in maintaining ISO 17025 accreditation. Laboratories should have a defined process for hiring, training, and evaluating the competency of their staff members. This includes providing ongoing training programs to keep laboratory personnel up-to-date with the latest techniques, standards, and regulations in their respective fields.
Furthermore, laboratories must keep thorough records of personnel qualifications and training activities. This helps to ensure that staff members are competent in performing their assigned tasks and that the laboratory meets ISO 17025 requirements regarding personnel competency.
In conclusion, maintaining ISO 17025 accreditation requires a commitment to evidence-based quality management, calibration and equipment maintenance, as well as continuous training and competency evaluation. Laboratories should establish robust systems to monitor and control their processes, enabling them to consistently produce accurate and reliable test results. By adhering to these practices, laboratories can maintain ISO 17025 accreditation, ensuring their credibility in the field of testing and calibration.
Nina She