Implementing ISO 17025 in a Calibration Laboratory

[ninovm]

Hi all,

Currently, I'm working on a cal lab who are aiming to get an ISO 17025 accreditation. I'm the one assign it implementing the 17025. Where should i start? how would i start? will i audit clause per clause? Any suggestions?

 

[Marc]

For starters - Have you read through these discussions?

 

[Sidney Vianna]

Where should i start? how would i start?

First thing to do, after acquiring a copy of the standard is to read it. Several times.

If you believe you could benefit from training on ISO 17025, ANAB offers such training @ http://anab.org/training/isoiec-17025-training/


Good luck.

 

[BradM]

I would like to echo and add to Sidney's suggestion here:

First thing to do, after acquiring a copy of the standard is to read it. Several times.

If you believe you could benefit from training on ISO 17025, ANAB offers such training @ http://anab.org/training/isoiec-17025-training/


Good luck.

After you are done reading it several times, you need to be able to call a meeting with management, and have them attend. Go over the standard, clarifying the management commitment/ resource responsibility, and long-term objectives of the program. It is an incredible journey and offers many process improvements. However, there is a needed commitment on the part of management they should understand.

 

[ninovm]

hi guys, thank you for your suggestions. by the way, we are a starting cal lab with only 3 employees (the owner,manager and me as cal tech).

Question:
would this set up be having a problem with implementation? i.e conflict of interest

 

[adamt]

Hi ninovm,

I am a part of a small 17205 accredited calibration lab also. With 3 employees some of you may have a few hats to wear. it can be done...... it would be a question if you are all on board. Doing it alone will be VERY hard to do without training and support form the other two. This is a great place for information.

 

[dwperron]

This question comes up fairly often, especially the "wearing many hats" issue. It can be done. One of the best answers I have seen came from a Q&A page:

MYTH: "Accreditation will require more personnel resources."
FACT: Personnel involved in quality assurance procedures will vary based upon the size of the laboratory. Larger laboratories may require personnel dedicated to working within a quality system, whereas smaller laboratories may not require dedicated personnel. Even in larger laboratories, some personnel may perform multiple roles. This does not necessarily create a conflict of interest. The personnel resources for maintaining accreditation are less than the initial investment of obtaining accreditation. There are successful approaches for small and one-person laboratories to implement quality systems.

 

[ninovm]

hi adamt,

i guess that's the problem. i'm the only one doing it. the owner and my manager doesn't have any idea about it so i'm the one doing it all. any ideas you could share on how to successfully implement it?

 

[adamt]

Hi ninovm,

sorry for the slow reply. going through an audit my self. As a technical manager for a small 17205 lab. I can tell you doing it by your self will be a daunting path but it can be done. Auditors will be mindful of your struggles and will help you out. Lucky for you there is a site like this and lots of free literature on the net. The first thing i would do is get your CMC uncertainties nailed down and. Getting your CCT will force you to learn the Uncertainty process if you don't have a good grasp. There are a lot of good classes you can take. Also take advantage of the very knowledgeable people hear.

SO ASK AWAY