You may wonder is it necessary to work with an accredited calibration lab? Or is it possible to work with a laboratory that performs work but not accredited?  While they may be able to help you, it is important to keep in mind that your labs’ performance is based on your equipment and instrumentation’s accuracy.  Unaccredited laboratories do not have to meet high levels of standards.  Let’s look at the benefits of working with an ISO 17025 accredited lab.

What is an Accredited Calibration Lab?

They deem a calibration lab accredited after a third-party organization evaluates that it is compliant with the ISO/IEC 17025 standards.  ISO 17025 is a recognized global standard of quality and conformity.

There are a handful of factors that play into a laboratory having regards as competent and compliant with ISO 17025 standard. It is these factors ensure quality results.

If these components meet the requirements, then the laboratory receives recognition as having the highest level of technical competency. Thus, granted accreditation.

Benefits of Using an Accredited Calibration Lab

The ISO 17025 Standard specifically assesses things like staff competence, the validity of test methods, traceability of measurements and calibration to national standards, testing environment, handling of test items and maintenance of equipment and quality of assurance of data.

• Technically Competent Personnel – When the lab goes through the accreditation process, they observe the laboratory personnel. It is imperative that the staff understands how to operate equipment and how the equipment affects calibration results.
• Confidence in Calibration Results – Accredited laboratories are required to meet the highest industry standard ISO 17025.
• Minimal Risk Factors – When equipment and instrumentation are properly maintained, risks of calibration inaccuracy are reduced.
• Monitored Lab Environment – The assessment process ensures that the lab’s environment does not invalidate the results of calibrations or adversely affect the required quality of a measurement.
• Required Measurement Uncertainty – ISO 17025 accredited labs requirements are to calculate measurement uncertainty for each parameter. This is required to be listed on the lab’s scope of accreditation, which can be found here.

The Risks of Using Uncalibrated Equipment

It is important to take note that when calibrations are off it will affect multiple areas of your lab including safety, productivity, and quality of work.  It can put people in the lab at risk, inaccurate results, along with process variance, inappropriate testing conditions, and poor documentation.

Working With an Accredited Lab

Think of calibration like regular maintenance.  It requires keeping a solid maintenance program, keeping the instruments calibrated, certificates of calibration, and detailed records.  However, in doing so you will avoid costly downtime and disruptions to your laboratory’s work schedule.

When choosing to have an ISO 17025 accredited laboratory calibrate your equipment, you can rest assured. We will take care of your equipment and they will do the job to meet your lab’s needs.  There will be no surprises, and your instruments and equipment will be accurate and compliant.