Product Certification
ISO/IEC 17020 is an international standard that outlines the requirements for the competence of inspection bodies. It covers the activities of inspection bodies and their ability to conduct impartial and consistent inspections. If you are looking to perform product inspection and testing in compliance with ISO/IEC 17020, here is a general process to follow:
1. Establish Competence and Impartiality:
Ensure that your inspection body demonstrates competence and impartiality in performing inspections. This involves having the necessary technical expertise, personnel, facilities, and procedures to carry out inspections and tests.
2. Define Scope of Inspection Services:
Clearly define the scope of your inspection services. Specify the types of products you will inspect, the methods and criteria you will use, and any limitations on your inspection activities.
3. Document Procedures and Processes:
Develop and document procedures for conducting inspections and tests. This includes detailing how inspections will be planned, carried out, and documented.
4. Competency of Personnel:
Verify that your personnel have the necessary skills, qualifications, and training to perform inspections and tests in their assigned areas. Keep records of their qualifications and competence.
5. Equipment and Facilities:
Ensure that you have the appropriate equipment and facilities for conducting inspections and tests. Calibrate and maintain inspection equipment regularly to ensure accuracy.
6. Impartiality and Independence:
Establish measures to ensure impartiality and independence in your inspection activities. This includes avoiding conflicts of interest and providing objective and unbiased inspection services.
7. Risk Assessment:
Conduct a risk assessment to identify and mitigate potential risks that could affect the impartiality and competence of your inspection body.
8. Quality Management System:
Implement a quality management system (QMS) that complies with the requirements of ISO/IEC 17020. This system should cover all aspects of your inspection activities, including documentation, corrective actions, and continuous improvement.
9. Inspection Planning:
Develop a plan for each inspection, outlining the specific tasks, methods, and criteria that will be used. Ensure that this plan is communicated to relevant parties.
10. Documentation and Reporting:
Document the inspection process and results thoroughly. Prepare clear and accurate inspection reports, including any deviations from standards or specifications.
11. Feedback and Improvement:
Establish a process for receiving and addressing feedback from clients and other interested parties. Use this feedback to identify areas for improvement in your inspection processes.
12. Internal Audits:
Conduct regular internal audits of your inspection body to ensure ongoing compliance with ISO/IEC 17020. Address any non-conformities identified during these audits.
13. Management Review:
Hold regular management reviews to evaluate the performance of your inspection body, assess the effectiveness of your quality management system, and identify opportunities for improvement.
14. Accreditation:
Consider seeking accreditation from a recognized accreditation body. Accreditation provides external validation of your competence and compliance with ISO/IEC 17020.
By following these steps and ensuring continuous improvement, your inspection body can demonstrate competence, impartiality, and adherence to ISO/IEC 17020 requirements in the process of product inspection and testing.