What is EN ISO 17088:2021?

Introduction

In the world of manufacturing and production, quality and consistency are key factors for success. To ensure standardization and excellence, various international organizations have specified guidelines and requirements that companies must adhere to. One such important standard is EN ISO 17088:2021, which sets the benchmark for technical competence in testing laboratories.

Understanding EN ISO 17088:2021

EN ISO 17088:2021, titled "General requirements for third-party conformity assessment bodies for self-declaration systems," outlines the criteria that laboratories offering testing services need to meet. It provides guidance on technical competence, impartiality, and consistent operation. The standard aims to ensure that laboratories perform accurate and reliable tests, making their results acceptable worldwide.

Key Features of EN ISO 17088:2021

EN ISO 17088:2021 covers several essential aspects that testing laboratories must address to attain accreditation and maintain quality. Here are some key features of this standard:

Management system requirements: This section focuses on the establishment and maintenance of a competent management system within the laboratory. It includes policies, procedures, resources, and continuous improvement processes.

Personnel competency: Competent personnel who possess the necessary skills and knowledge are crucial in ensuring reliable test results. EN ISO 17088:2021 emphasizes the importance of training, qualifications, and ongoing proficiency assessments of laboratory personnel.

Quality assurance: Laboratories must implement quality assurance measures to guarantee the reliability and accuracy of their testing procedures and equipment. This involves regularly monitoring and calibrating instruments, maintaining appropriate documentation, and conducting inter-laboratory comparisons.

Impartiality and confidentiality: EN ISO 17088:2021 emphasizes the importance of impartiality and maintaining confidentiality in the testing process. To achieve this, laboratories must have a clear policy regarding conflicts of interest and ensure that customer information is protected.

Benefits of Compliance with EN ISO 17088:2021

Complying with EN ISO 17088:2021 offers numerous advantages for testing laboratories:

Enhanced reputation: Accreditation to this standard demonstrates the laboratory's commitment to quality, competence, and reliability, enhancing its reputation in the industry.

Global acceptance: Since EN ISO 17088:2021 is recognized internationally, laboratories accredited to this standard gain acceptance and credibility worldwide.

Customer confidence: Compliance with this standard assures customers of accurate and reliable testing results, increasing their confidence in the laboratory's capabilities.

Better processes and efficiency: Implementing the requirements of EN ISO 17088:2021 helps laboratories enhance their internal processes, leading to improved efficiency and productivity.

In conclusion, EN ISO 17088:2021 plays a vital role in ensuring technical competence in testing laboratories. By adhering to this standard, laboratories can establish themselves as reliable and credible entities in the industry, gaining recognition and trust from customers worldwide.