Overview Of Iso/iec 17025 Controls And Instructions To Maintain Measuring Equipment In Laboratories

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Have you heard that ISO 17025 can support the improvement of laboratory measurements? According to the study, precise measuring is extremely important for current industrial research and development. Modern laboratories must make use of top-notch measurement apparatus to be able to achieve that criteria. The laboratory must take an organized approach to the measuring procedure to get the right measurement result.

The process-based approach to this subject emphasizes how many different activities can have an impact on a measurement result. Mapping the procedures and activities involved in the measurement test should be the first step in any test you want to get accredited for. Then, take a look at the risks to decide which controls need to be implemented.

• Management of personnel competency
• Document control of procedures
• Effective technical records
• Suitable facilities and conditions
• Suitably calibrated equipment
• Certified reference materials
• Suitable reagents
• Suitable test method
• Validated methods
• Correct handling of samples

Because ...
... the ISO 17025:2017 standard demands laboratories to demonstrate their competence, practical work necessitates the right use of laboratory equipment as well as a dedication to following controlled processes.
As we are all aware, laboratory equipment refers to the primary tools used for work in a lab. The primary measuring instruments, measurement software, auxiliary measurement modules and equipment, reagents, consumables, and approved reference materials required for the proper execution of the measurement procedure may all be included in laboratory equipment.

Not all measurement equipment guarantees laboratory success. The laboratory must demonstrate its proficiency by the associated clauses (6.2, 6.4.6, and 6.4.13) by offering evidence that it utilizes equipment that is specifically identified and calibrated, that it is in working order, that it is routinely tested and maintained as well as it documented properly, and the qualified personnel should operate the equipment. For this reason, ISO 17025 awareness training could be extremely important.

The place of the measurement has an impact on the validity of the usage of laboratory equipment. Measurements can be made in a laboratory setting, where environmental factors are under control and repeatability for subsequent measurements is simpler to maintain. However, there are some circumstances where measurements must be made on the spot, where varying environmental factors could affect their accuracy. In any event, it is essential to utilize auxiliary measurement tools to keep an eye on, regulate, and document environmental conditions to maintain the laboratory's reputation. Everything in a laboratory must be recorded in ISO 17025 documents for comparison purposes.

Following the instructions for using the laboratory equipment is also necessary to preserve the quality of the measurement equipment. As required by clause 6 of the standard, those methods shall specify and regularly give information concerning the "health" / appropriateness of the measurement equipment, including:

• suitable handling techniques
• In the event of on-site measurement, service repairs, proficiency testing (inter-comparisons), or recalibration, adequate transit techniques
• correct procedures for handling equipment by laboratory staff during measurement, maintenance, or storage
• Equipment should be regularly and repeatedly tested to ensure that it meets the requirements for measurement accuracy and/or measurement uncertainty necessary to produce an accurate result.
• monitoring the duration and potential for physical damage, firmware updates, or software failure of laboratory equipment
• the provision of records outlining how the equipment was used, fixed, put through competency tests, calibrated, etc.