{"id":601,"date":"2018-09-13T17:45:26","date_gmt":"2018-09-13T17:45:26","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/iso.thatwebdev1.co.uk\/?page_id=601"},"modified":"2019-04-29T14:56:12","modified_gmt":"2019-04-29T14:56:12","slug":"iso-17020","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.episodeltd.com\/iso-17020\/","title":{"rendered":"ISO 17020"},"content":{"rendered":"\n\t

ISO 17020<\/h1>\n\t

The standard looks at all the requirements testing and calibration laboratories and testing organisations have to meet to prove that they <\/h4>\n

– operate a quality system, <\/h4>\n

– are technically competent and<\/h4>\n

– can generate technically valid results.<\/h4>\n\t

How do I get ISO 17020?<\/h2>\n\t

Don\u2019t be put off by thinking it is too complex a thing to do. We aren\u2019t saying it\u2019s simple, but with us doing the bulk of the work for you, including managing the whole process, it is relatively straightforward.<\/p>\n

Here are the following stages to becoming and staying certified to ISO 17020:<\/p>\n

    \n
  1. Comply with the relevant codes of practices that are mandatory in your sector (such as HSG 264 for asbestos management) and ensure you follow them<\/li>\n
  2. Establish a system that complies with the standard<\/li>\n
  3. Make everyone aware of the system and any changes in ways of working that have come about<\/li>\n
  4. Operate the system to
    \na. Make sure it works efficiently
    \nb. Build evidence of compliance with the requirements of the standard
    \nc. Get staff familiar with it<\/li>\n
  5. Engage UKAS to accredit the system<\/li>\n
  6. Keep using the system once it has been accredited (to keep the certificate)<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

    There is more detailed information below about the various stages you need to go through.<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\"\"\n\t

    Your ISO 17020 certification journey<\/h2>\n\t\t\t\t\"Group\n\t

    Getting Started<\/h3>\n\t
      \n
    1. Provide a comprehensive briefing of what the standard asks you to do in simple to understand terms<\/li>\n
    2. Approach UKAS to begin the process on your behalf as soon as we can. It is a drawn out process and they are typically booked out many months in advance.<\/li>\n
    3. Begin to understand in detail how you operate<\/li>\n
    4. Set a timetable and stick to it<\/li>\n
    5. Decide what you want covered by the certificate \u2013 which sites, products and services. You can exclude some if you prefer.<\/li>\n
    6. Put the right resources in place<\/li>\n
    7. Identify who is going to be the Technical Manager and provide them with ongoing coaching during the project on their responsibilities<\/li>\n
    8. Collect all existing documentation<\/li>\n
    9. Establish a dedicated client portal on our collaboration and document sharing platform<\/li>\n
    10. Begin establishing a dedicated\u00a0 system written just for you<\/li>\n
    11. Identify any equipment that needs to be maintained, controlled &\/or calibrated by a UKAS accredited lab<\/li>\n
    12. Consider software used & how correct outputs are assured<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\t\t\t\t\"Group\n\t

      Implementing<\/h3>\n\t
        \n
      1. Establish a detailed project plan in our online project management platform (and stick to it)<\/li>\n
      2. Complete UKAS\u2019 application forms (there are 2 \u2013 a general application and a body-type specific form depending on what you do) & submit<\/li>\n
      3. Decide what you need operationally<\/em><\/strong><\/li>\n
      4. Understand what the standard and any relevant codes of practice requires you to do<\/li>\n
      5. Help you get your paperwork in order (accurate and complete records are vital).<\/li>\n
      6. Do a gap analysis<\/li>\n
      7. Implement the system, ensuring all required documentation is completed & has been filled out correctly, such as:
        \na. Impartiality and confidentiality
        \nb. Type A, B or C classification statement
        \nc. Staff qualifications and training records
        \nd. Sufficient re-surveys completed
        \ne. Inspection records and reports are complete, compliant and accurate
        \nf. Documentation is controlled<\/li>\n
      8. Brief staff on what they need to know & do<\/li>\n
      9. Conduct an all clause internal audit<\/li>\n
      10. Carry out a management review<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\t\t\t\t\"Group\n\t

        Certification<\/h3>\n\t

        ISO 17020 is an accredited standard, which means that in the UK only UKAS can audit you and issue a certificate. Beware, they operate on long lead times, so<\/p>\n

          \n
        1. We approach them right at the start of the project<\/li>\n
        2. When ready, submit the completed system for desktop review by UKAS<\/li>\n
        3. Decide with you if you would like a pre-assessment visit by UKAS. We recommend not doing so.<\/li>\n
        4. Undergo initial assessment. This is a comprehensive audit of documentation (especially records), compliance to the standard, and compliance to operational procedures and codes of practice where applicable (such as HSG 264 for asbestos management).<\/li>\n
        5. Address the findings (there always are, that\u2019s just how UKAS is) and submit evidence proving closure of the issues.<\/li>\n
        6. Close out initial assessment<\/li>\n
        7. Brief you on post-certification activity<\/li>\n
        8. Support you during the 6 month surveillance audit (if required)(1)<\/sup><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n 
          \n(1) <\/sup>The certificate is valid for 4 years. 6 months after being initially accredited, UKAS returns to complete the first surveillance audit.\n

          For more detail visit UKAS accreditation guidance.<\/a><\/p>\n\t

          FAQ\u2019s<\/h3>\n\t