After more than 25 years in the torque wrench business, we’re still amazed at the number of industry insiders who just don’t see why ISO 17025 calibration is so important.
These are people working in the pipeline, wind energy, petrochemical and other critical sectors, all at a time when infrastructure around the world is failing.
Applying the appropriate torque to bolts and verifying that the tool that applied the torque was correctly calibrated is essential when running a safe, effective plant or job site.
What is ISO 17025 Accreditation?
Developed 20 years ago, ISO 17025 is a standard that shows that a calibration lab is operating in a technically proficient fashion using a documented quality system to produce accurate results. In our industry, ISO 17025 is considered the premier standard for calibration labs.
The people who created the standard wanted to offer competent measurement services and traceable results. The lab and its client agree on the services provided, and the validity of the testing and calibration is regulated by internal quality standards. Labs can demonstrate their competency through accreditation.
How does a company receive ISO 17025 accreditation?
A company is ready for accreditation once it sets up an ISO/IEC 17025 management system and gives its employees time to learn the system and develop documentation that can be assessed:
These documents should include:
- A quality manual
- Procedures that explain how the system functions
- Work instructions
- Quality documentation and records of files, inspections, testing and assessment results
Once those documents are in place, the assessment process can begin.
Why ISO 17025 is so valuable
When you use a company that provides calibration according to ISO 17025 standards, you know that they’re working with a lab that:
- Uses a formal, written quality program for all processes and procedures
- Offers formal training in ISO 17025 processes
- Has its work checked and audited by an outside accreditation group, such as A2LA
In addition, ISO 17025 calibration will give you peace of mind that:
- The person who performed the calibration is fully trained and qualified
- A written procedure is followed for every calibration
- Environmental factors are being monitored and maintained
Maxpro has been an ISO 17025 accredited lab since 2015. We know why ISO 17025 is so valuable and are proud of the investment we’ve made to reach this important milestone.
And we’re one of the few companies that offers this service for industries like mining, power, construction and petrochemical.
Contact us today to learn how we can help you with your next project.
