"General requirements for the competence of testing and calibration laboratories" is the title of ISO 17025, which was published by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) and the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). The standard guarantees that labs are technically competent and able to produce reliable results. It addresses topics such equipment maintenance, testing procedures, calibration techniques, and quality management systems.
ISO 17025 certification in UK focuses on technical competence, as opposed to ISO 9001, which emphasizes overall quality management. ISO 17025 certified laboratories have proven that they fulfill the technical and management standards necessary to generate precise, repeatable findings.
How to Obtain ISO 17025 Certification in the United Kingdom
The worldwide standard that outlines the general standards for testing and calibration laboratories' competency is ISO/IEC 17025 in UK . A laboratory's reputation, technical correctness, and international credibility are all enhanced in the UK by becoming certified to this level. ISO 17025 certification, particularly when awarded by UKAS (United Kingdom Accreditation Service), is a potent testament to your quality and dependability, regardless of whether you are running a government testing facility, private lab, or internal calibration center.
Here is a detailed guide to assist your lab in getting ready to pursue ISO 17025 accreditation in the UK.
Recognize the prerequisites
You should begin by becoming acquainted with ISO/IEC 17025:2017. It covers technical criteria including staff competency, calibration techniques, equipment control, and test result validity in addition to management system standards (like ISO 9001).
The British Standards Institution (BSI) sells the official standard document. Prior to starting any official implementation procedure, it is imperative that you comprehend these prerequisites.
Perform a Gap Study
Do a gap analysis to determine where your current activities don't meet ISO 17025 criteria before making any adjustments. This assessment assists you in determining what needs to be updated in:
- Documentation and procedures
- Employee education and credentials
- Calibration and maintenance of equipment
- Internal procedures for quality control
To find possible non-conformities, you can either employ an ISO 17025 consultant in UK or do the investigation internally.
Create and Put into Practice a Management System
Start developing or improving your laboratory management system as soon as you are aware of the deficiencies. Important elements consist of:
- A guide to quality
- SOPs, or standard operating procedures
- Records pertaining to equipment use, calibration procedures, and test methodologies
- Records of staff training and competency evaluations
- Plans for internal audits and protocols for corrective action
All procedures must be properly documented, applied consistently, and in accordance with ISO 17025 standards.
Educate Your Employees
One of ISO 17025's main requirements is staff competency. All staff members engaged in testing, calibration, reporting, and data management need to be:
- Well-trained
- Technically proficient and cognizant of ISO 17025 standards and quality requirements
- Training ought to be continuous, documented, and subject to regular competency assessments.
How can I find UK-based ISO 13485 specialists?
There are several things to think about when figuring out how to get ISO 17025 certification in the UK. Nonetheless, Certvalue can simplify the procedure for you because of its 100% success rate and lack of certification process failures. When you deal with Certvalue, your dependable partner, ISO 17025 registration in the UK is reasonably priced. One of our experts will get in touch with you as soon as possible to provide the best solution available. You may also reach Certvalue by sending an email to [email protected] or by visiting www.certvalue.com and speaking with an expert there.