Last updated on October 16th, 2025 at 06:28 pm
Quality and accuracy are essential in every industry today, especially for testing and calibration laboratories. Industries, manufacturers, and customers can only trust laboratory results if testing procedures and results have been verified according to internationally recognised standards. This is where ISO/IEC 17025:2017 certification becomes crucial. ISO/IEC 17025:2017 is a globally accepted standard that establishes a framework for competence, objectivity, and consistent operations in testing and calibration laboratories. This certification ensures that laboratory results are accurate, reliable, and internationally recognised. At A Star Legal Associates, we provide professional consultation and comprehensive support to businesses and laboratories seeking ISO/IEC 17025:2017 certification, guiding them from the documentation process to the final audit.
What is ISO/IEC 17025:2017?
ISO/IEC 17025:2017 is an international standard designed for testing and calibration laboratories. Its primary objective is to ensure that laboratories are technically competent and that their results are valid and reliable.
This standard was jointly developed by ISO (International Organisation for Standardisation) and IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission). It covers both laboratory management systems and technical requirements so that laboratories can consistently provide reliable results.
The latest revision (2017 edition) of ISO/IEC 17025:2017 has been updated to reflect modern laboratory practices and new technologies, with a focus on risk-based thinking and data privacy.
Uses of ISO/IEC 17025:2017 Certification
ISO/IEC 17025:2017 certification serves several purposes beyond laboratory accreditation. Its key uses include:
- Providing global recognition of a laboratory’s technical competence.
- Ensuring the accuracy and validity of test and calibration results.
- Strengthening trust between customers and regulatory bodies.
- Supporting international trade and promoting collaboration.
- Reducing errors, rewrites, and inconsistencies.
- Promoting continuous improvement and quality assurance.
Importance of ISO/IEC 17025:2017 Certification
In today’s competitive world, ISO/IEC 17025:2017 certification has become a mandatory requirement for testing and calibration laboratories. This certification demonstrates that the laboratory has appropriate technical expertise, standardised procedures, and quality control measures. Certified laboratories are highly preferred by both customers and regulatory authorities because they ensure that their test results are reliable and globally accepted. Furthermore, ISO/IEC 17025 certification also improves the laboratory’s internal management and staff capabilities, increasing both efficiency and consistency.
Scope of ISO/IEC 17025:2017 Certification
The scope of ISO/IEC 17025:2017 is quite broad, making it applicable to all types of testing and calibration laboratories, whether private, government, academic, or industrial. Some common areas where ISO/IEC 17025 is relevant include:
- Chemical and biological laboratories
- Mechanical and electrical calibration laboratories
- Food and water testing laboratories
- Construction materials testing
- Environmental and pharmaceutical laboratories
- Forensic and pathology laboratories
This standard is relevant to all laboratories where measurement, testing, and calibration procedures are regularly performed.
ISO/IEC 17025:2017 Certification Process
The ISO/IEC 17025:2017 certification process follows a structured approach to align laboratory systems and processes with international standards:
Gap Analysis:
The first step involves analysing the existing laboratory system and evaluating it against the requirements of ISO/IEC 17025.
Documentation:
Develop laboratory policies, procedures, and records, including quality manuals, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and test/calibration methods.
Implementation:
Implement the documented system in practice. This phase includes staff training and proper record-keeping.
Internal Audit:
Conduct an internal audit to verify that the laboratory’s system is functioning effectively and meeting ISO requirements.
Management Review:
Top management reviews the system’s performance and audit results, and develops an action plan for improvement as needed.
External Evaluation:
An accredited certification body conducts an external audit of the laboratory. If all requirements are met, certification is granted.
Monitoring and Continuous Improvement:
Following certification, regular monitoring audits are conducted to ensure continued compliance and continuous improvement.
Documents Required for ISO/IEC 17025:2017 Certification
To obtain ISO/IEC 17025:2017 certification, the following key documents are required:
- Quality Manual and Scope of Accreditation
- Equipment Calibration Records
- Testing and Calibration Procedures
- Employee Qualification and Training Records
- Measurement Uncertainty and Traceability Records
- Internal Audit and Management Review Reports
- Records of Complaints and Non-Conformances
To ensure a smooth certification process, ensure that all documentation is complete and up to date.
Cost of ISO/IEC 17025:2017 Certification
The cost of obtaining ISO/IEC 17025:2017 certification varies from laboratory to laboratory, depending on factors such as laboratory size, scope of testing or calibration, technical complexity, and location. This investment is worthwhile, as certification provides your laboratory with global recognition, increased customer confidence, and improved business opportunities. Once certified, your organisation benefits from increased efficiency, reliability, and consistency, leading to long-term benefits.
Why Choose A Star Legal Associates for ISO/IEC 17025:2017 Certification?
A Star Legal Associates is a reputable ISO consulting firm that provides expert guidance to laboratories and organisations across India to achieve ISO/IEC 17025:2017 certification. We provide comprehensive support, including gap analysis, documentation, training, implementation, and the certification audit process. Our team of experienced consultants ensures that your laboratory’s systems are fully compliant with ISO/IEC 17025:2017 standards. With our industry expertise, cost-effective solutions, and efficient processing, we aim to make your certification journey smooth and stress-free. Professional assistance with ISO/IEC 17025:2017 certification, contact A Star Legal Associates at +91 9314321001 and help your laboratory achieve global recognition and accreditation.
Conclusion
Ultimately, obtaining ISO/IEC 17025:2017 certification is an important step for laboratories seeking to improve the accuracy, reliability, and international recognition of their test results. This certification enhances operational control and efficiency, while also strengthening customer confidence.
Choosing A Star Legal Associates for your ISO/IEC 17025:2017 certification is a wise and sustainable decision that can align your laboratory with global standards.
Call +91 9314321001 today to receive expert consultation for your ISO/IEC 17025:2017 certification process with A Star Legal Associates.