What is ISO-IEC 17014:2016?

ISO-IEC 17014:2016 is an international standard that provides guidelines for conducting technical investigations and tests. It focuses on the general requirements for testing laboratories, including their management system, personnel competence, test procedures, and equipment calibration. This standard ensures that laboratories are able to deliver reliable and consistent results, which are crucial for industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, and environmental sciences.

Management System Requirements

The first aspect addressed by ISO-IEC 17014:2016 is the management system of a testing laboratory. This includes the establishment and maintenance of a quality management system, documentation of procedures and policies, and control over non-conforming work. By implementing an effective management system, laboratories can ensure consistency, reliability, and accuracy in their technical investigations and tests.

Personnel Competence

An essential factor in any testing laboratory is the competence of its personnel. ISO-IEC 17014:2016 emphasizes the importance of having qualified and competent staff involved in all aspects of the testing processes. This means that laboratory personnel need to have the necessary education, training, and experience to perform their tasks effectively. Additionally, the standard encourages continuous professional development to keep up with new technologies and industry advancements.

Test Procedures and Equipment Calibration

The quality and reliability of test results depend greatly on the procedures employed during testing and the calibration of equipment used. ISO-IEC 17014:2016 outlines specific requirements for these aspects, ensuring that laboratories have appropriate and validated test methods in place. It also emphasizes the importance of equipment calibration and traceability to national or international standards. By adhering to these requirements, laboratories can minimize errors and uncertainty, providing accurate and meaningful results to their clients.