ISO 17025: Requirements for testing and calibration laboratories explained in an easy-to-understand way
The standard ISO/IEC 17025 is the Internationally recognized standard for testing and calibration laboratories. It defines the fundamental requirements for technical competence, the quality of testing processes, and the organizational structures of a laboratory. The goal is to to ensure reliable and internationally comparable measurement resultsThis applies regardless of whether mechanical, physical, or chemical tests are performed. For industrial companies that rely on precise test results, ISO 17025 is a key benchmark. The standard is particularly relevant in quality assurance, incoming goods inspection, and the selection of suitable testing and calibration equipment.
ISO 17025 does not describe the specific execution of individual testing or calibration procedures. Instead, the standard specifies that Under what conditions must a laboratory operate in order to be allowed to carry out such tests professionally and with recognition? The focus is on the organization, the qualification of the staff, the testing equipment used, and quality assurance throughout the entire laboratory operation.
Note: Accreditation according to ISO 17025 is carried out in Germany by the German Accreditation Body (Thank you). If you would like to learn more about the practical implementation as well as the DAkkS calibration of materials testing machines If you would like to learn more, click on the linked article.
Contents & structure of ISO/IEC 17025
ISO/IEC 17025 is divided into several key requirement areas, covering both organizational and technical aspects of laboratory work. A crucial component is the general requirement for impartiality and confidentiality. Laboratories must ensure that their results are not distorted by internal or external influences and that all confidential information remains protected.
Furthermore, the standard describes detailed requirements for the laboratory's structure, personnel and technical resources, and the execution and evaluation of testing and calibration procedures. These include, among other things, the validation of methods, the assessment of measurement uncertainty, the traceability of measurement results, and documentation requirements.
Another important component is the requirements for the management system. ISO/IEC 17025 eThis allows both the creation of an independent system and its integration into existing management systems., for example according to ISO 9001. It is crucial that all processes are clearly defined, monitored and continuously improved in order to ensure the quality of testing services in the long term.
ISO 17025 in practice: its significance for testing equipment and calibration
For laboratories and testing facilities, the application of ISO 17025 means that All testing and calibration processes must be carried out under clearly defined and controlled conditions.The standard ensures that not only the testing equipment used is suitable, but also the qualifications of the personnel, the laboratory procedures, and the documentation meet the requirements. The aim is to guarantee reproducible and traceable measurement results.
In practical terms, this means that the testing equipment used, such as... tensile testing machines, hardness tester or measuring systems must be regularly checked and calibrated. These calibrations are carried out by appropriately qualified and accredited laboratories that meet the requirements of ISO 17025. This is the only way to ensure that measurement results are traceable and internationally comparable.
Assessing measurement uncertainty is also an important component. Measurement results are not considered in isolation, but always evaluated in relation to their accuracy and reproducibility. This creates a reliable basis for decisions in quality assurance, supplier evaluation, or technical documentation for customers and authorities.
ISO 17025 does not regulate the testing itself, but rather the competence and working methods of the laboratory that performs these tests. The specific testing procedures and their implementation, however, are defined in the respective technical standards.
In practice, this means that calibrations must be carried out by appropriately accredited laboratories. SCHÜTZ+LICHT, as a DAkkS-accredited calibration laboratory, specializes in the standards-compliant calibration of materials testing machines.
Learn more about DAkkS calibration of material testing machines here!
Traceability and mandatory calibration as key requirements
A central one The aim of ISO 17025 is to ensure the traceability of all measured values to national or international standards.Only in this way can measurement results be objectively classified and recognized worldwide. For daily laboratory operations, this means that all testing equipment used must be demonstrably calibrated and the results fully documented. Regular verification and recalibration are necessary to avoid deviations and maintain technical reliability.
Requirements for testing equipment in an accredited environment
Modern testing and calibration equipment must not only deliver precise measurement results, but also be designed so that it can be calibrated and operated in accordance with standards and documentation. Suitable measurement technology, software-supported evaluation, and the ability to monitor test equipment regularly and traceably are essential. Devices such as tensile testing machines, hardness tester or pendulum impact testers Therefore, DAkkS-calibrated machines should be used. Industrial companies accredited according to ISO 17025, and especially service providers in the field of materials testing, are obligated to use only DAkkS-calibrated machines for testing.
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ISO 17025: What you need to know
For companies that require testing or calibration services, or operate their own laboratories, it is crucial to understand the To not only know the requirements of ISO 17025, but also to implement them consistently. When selecting testing equipment, it is important to ensure that it is suitable for use in accordance with standards. This includes, among other things, documented traceability of measurement results, regular calibration intervals, and standards-compliant evaluation using appropriate testing software.
For companies, this means that calibrations should ideally be carried out by a laboratory accredited according to ISO 17025. Further information on SCHÜTZ+LICHT's DAkkS-accredited calibration services can be found [here/on this page]. .
Furthermore, accreditation according to ISO 17025 is formal proof of a laboratory's technical competence. It fosters trust with customers, auditors, and authorities. This requires clearly defined processes, trained personnel, suitable equipment, and complete documentation of all relevant testing and calibration procedures. Companies that work with accredited partners or are themselves accredited thus ensure not only the quality of their measurements but also their international recognition.
Recommendations for purchasing, calibration and testing procedures
When selecting equipment, you should ensure it meets standards, for example, that it is calibratable according to ISO 17025 and that suitable software solutions are available for standards-compliant evaluation. For monitoring test equipment, we recommend a structured calibration plan with defined intervals, responsibilities, and testing procedures. When outsourcing calibrations, you should also ensure that the equipment is accredited according to ISO 17025 to guarantee the traceability and legal validity of the measurement results.
Properly implementing documentation and proof requirements
Companies must ensure that measurement results, calibration certificates, test plans, and procedures used are fully documented and archived. This is the only way to demonstrate compliance with standards at any time during internal audits or official inspections.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about DIN EN ISO IEC 17025
What is the difference between ISO 17025 and ISO 9001?
ISO 17025 is specifically aimed at testing and calibration laboratories and defines requirements for technical competence and the validity of measurement results. ISO 9001, on the other hand, is a general standard for quality management systems in all industries. It does not contain any specifications for carrying out tests or calibrations.
Is ISO 17025 accreditation mandatory?
Accreditation is not legally required, but is demanded by customers, clients, or authorities in many industries. It is formal proof of a laboratory's technical competence. Especially in the automotive sector, calibration by an accredited laboratory is essential. accredited testing laboratory is carried out because this is done by the VDA - Association of the Automotive Industry in the specifications of IATF International Automotive Task Strength is prescribed.
Which testing devices must be calibrated according to ISO 17025?
Basically, all devices that deliver measurement results or influence the result. This includes, for example, force transducers, length measuring systems, or temperature sensors.
How often do calibrations need to be performed?
Calibration intervals must be determined and documented based on risk. Frequency and scope depend on usage, measurement requirements, and the manufacturer's recommendations.
Does ISO 17025 also apply to internal laboratories in companies?
Yes, the standard applies to all laboratories that perform testing or calibration activities, regardless of whether they work internally or externally. In-house laboratories can also be accredited.
