Checklist for ISO 17025 for chemistry testing lab

1. Management Requirements

Establish and maintain a quality management system.

Define and document the laboratory's organizational structure.

Ensure that roles and responsibilities are clearly defined.

Develop a quality manual that outlines the quality policy and objectives.

Conduct management reviews regularly to assess the effectiveness of the quality management system.

Implement procedures for document control to ensure current versions are used.

2. Technical Requirements

Ensure that personnel have the required qualifications and training for their tasks.

Implement procedures for the validation and verification of methods.

Maintain equipment in proper working condition and ensure calibration is performed regularly.

Establish procedures for sampling, handling, and storage of samples.

Ensure traceability of measurements to national or international standards.

Maintain records of all testing and calibration activities, including results and reports.

3. Equipment and Calibration

Create an inventory of all laboratory equipment used for testing.

Develop a calibration schedule for all measuring equipment.

Maintain calibration certificates for all equipment.

Implement procedures for the maintenance and repair of equipment.

Ensure that equipment is used only by qualified personnel.

4. Test Methods

Document all testing methods used in the laboratory.

Ensure that methods are validated and appropriate for their intended use.

Review and update methods regularly to reflect current practices and standards.

Train personnel on new or updated test methods.

5. Non-Conformance and Corrective Actions

Establish a procedure for identifying non-conformances in testing or quality.

Document all non-conformance incidents and actions taken.

Implement corrective actions to prevent recurrence of non-conformances.

Review the effectiveness of corrective actions taken.

6. Internal Audits

Schedule regular internal audits to assess compliance with ISO 17025.

Document audit findings and observations.

Implement corrective actions based on audit findings.

Ensure that audit results are communicated to management.

7. Continuous Improvement

Encourage feedback from staff on the quality management system.

Monitor and analyze data to identify areas for improvement.

Set measurable objectives for improvement initiatives.

Review the effectiveness of improvement actions regularly.

8. Training and Competence

Develop a training program for all laboratory personnel.

Maintain records of training and competencies for each employee.

Regularly assess training needs based on changes in methods or equipment.

Ensure ongoing professional development opportunities are available.

9. Customer Satisfaction

Establish methods for obtaining feedback from clients regarding laboratory services.

Monitor customer complaints and take appropriate actions to address them.

Evaluate customer satisfaction regularly to improve services provided.

10. Documentation and Record Keeping

Ensure all documents are controlled and accessible to relevant personnel.

Maintain records of all tests, calibrations, and quality management activities.

Establish retention periods for different types of records.

Regularly review and update documentation as necessary.