New laboratory standard ISO/IEC 17025:2017 – DAkkS prepares for conversion

German Accreditation Body (DAkkS) is currently preparing the process of conversion to the ISO/IEC 17025:2017 standard. The new version of the globally applicable standard for the laboratory sector was drawn up by the competent committee for conformity assessment (CASCO) at the international standardisation body ISO and published in English at the end of November. The German version of the standard is due to appear in spring.

The standard sets out the general requirements with respect to the competence of testing and calibration laboratories, and also forms the basis for accreditation in this area. Compliance with the standard makes it possible to determine laboratory results in a technically competent manner and ensure their international acceptance.

The transition period for the conversion to the new ISO/IEC 17025:2017 standard is three years from the date of publication of the international standard, giving accredited laboratories until 30 November 2020 to apply to have their accreditations based on the old standard adapted.

DAkkS recommends converting to the new standard within the framework of regular surveillance assessments or applying for and implementing re-accreditation.

After completing its preparations and the training of its auditors, the accreditation body will be able start carrying out assessments on the basis of the new ISO/IEC 17025:2017 standard from 1 July 2018.

DAkkS has published further information in a separate guide to conversion.