Unlocking value and confidence with ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation for testing laboratories

Unlocking value and confidence with ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation for testing laboratories

For testing laboratories, whether already accredited or considering accreditation, ISO/IEC 17025 remains the global standard for demonstrating technical competence and reliability in testing and calibration services. As industries evolve and customers become more demanding, accreditation to ISO/IEC 17025 has become a strategic asset that amplifies trust, efficiency, and competitive advantage. 

What is ISO/IEC 17025 

ISO/IEC 17025:2017 is an international standard that sets out the general requirements for the competence, impartiality and consistent operation of laboratories. Developed by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) in collaboration with the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), ISO/IEC 7025 emphasis the need for laboratories to prioritise quality practices and demonstrate their competence. 

Why accreditation matters 

Accreditation to ISO/IEC 17025 provides an objective recognition of a laboratory’s ability to produce precise, consistent, and valid test results. In an era where quality and accuracy are non-negotiable, accreditation acts as a guarantee of your laboratory’s adherence to internationally recognised standards. It reassures customers that your laboratory operates under rigorous controls, ensuring that test results are defensible and reproducible. 

Enhanced credibility and market access 

Being accredited to ISO/IEC 17025 boosts a laboratory’s credibility. Accredited laboratories are seen as trustworthy partners, especially in highly regulated sectors such as healthcare, pharmaceuticals, food safety, and environmental testing. The accreditation symbol signifies that your testing methods, equipment, and personnel are all subjected to regular independent audits and that your lab consistently meets the required international standards. This level of assurance often opens doors to new business opportunities and helps laboratories stand out in competitive bids and tenders. 

Moreover, many industries, regulatory bodies, and customers now require or prefer ISO/IEC 17025-accredited testing as part of their supply chain requirements. Accreditation can lead to greater access to both national and international markets, offering your laboratory a clear competitive edge. 

Improved operational efficiency and risk management 

Accreditation isn’t just about meeting external expectations – it also drives internal improvement. The ISO/IEC 17025 framework promotes continual assessment and enhancement of your laboratory’s processes. By refining workflows, maintaining technical rigor, and fostering staff competency, accredited labs often experience reduced errors, less rework, and greater overall efficiency. 

Furthermore, accreditation helps identify and mitigate risks. Regular assessments by UKAS ensure that potential vulnerabilities are highlighted, giving you a proactive approach to managing quality and operational risks. As a result, the lab can focus on delivering reliable results with minimal disruptions. 

Confidence in results 

For laboratories, the quality of test results is the cornerstone of their reputation. ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation ensures a lab has a robust system in place to manage testing quality, from equipment calibration and sample handling to data reporting and documentation. Accreditation strengthens the confidence your clients have in your results, making accredited laboratories the preferred choice for critical testing. 

Support for continuous improvement 

Accreditation is not a one-time achievement – it’s an ongoing commitment to quality. An ISO/IEC 17025-accredited laboratory benefits from continuous external assessments by UKAS, ensuring the laboratory keeps pace with technological advancements, regulatory updates, and evolving customer needs. This ongoing review and improvement cycle helps an accredited laboratory to maintain its leadership in quality and reliability. 

Considering accreditation? 

If your laboratory is not yet accredited, now is the time to consider the benefits. Accreditation to ISO/IEC 17025 is an investment in your laboratory’s future – driving customer trust, improving internal processes, and enhancing your competitive positioning in an increasingly complex market. 

To assist laboratories considering accreditation, UKAS has developed a free-to-use Readiness Self-Assessment tool to help laboratories evaluate their current systems and processes against the requirements of ISO/IEC 17025. By using this tool, laboratories can identify areas for improvement and better understand the steps required to meet the accreditation standards. This early-stage support empowers laboratories to embark on their accreditation journey with confidence, ensuring they are well-prepared for a formal application. 

For those already accredited, continuing to maintain and expand the scope of your accreditation reinforces your laboratory’s commitment to excellence. UKAS stands ready to support your laboratory on its journey to achieve and sustain the high standards of ISO/IEC 17025. In order to discuss your accreditation requirements, you can contact UKAS via email or find out more on the website.