The aim of this standard

ISO/IEC 17011:2004 (JIS Q17011:2005) sets out the general requirements for the operation of a system for accreditation of conformity assessment bodies including calibration and/or testing laboratories so that the accreditations granted and the services covered by the accreditationsmay be recognized at a national or an international level and the body operating the accreditation system may be recognized at national or international level as competent and reliable.

Outline of this standard

1. Accreditation body
• legal entity and management resources, organization, impartiallity and confidentiality of accreditation body, organization, etc.

2. Management
• management system, document control, records, nonconforming work and CA/PA, internal audits, management reviews, etc.

3. Human resources
• AB staff, personnel involved in accreditation process, monitoring, records, etc.

4. Accreditation process
• criteria, information to applicant labs, assessment and surveillance process, granting, withdrawing and suspending accreditation, proficiency testing, etc.

5. Responsibility of the accreditation body and the laboratories
• obligation of labs, obligation of AB, reference to accreditation status and use of accreditation symbol.