ISO/IEC 17020 Consultancy

New Generation Approach to Impartiality and Technical Competence in Inspection Bodies

Importance of ISO 17020

ISO/IEC 17020 is the standard that ensures the reliable, impartial and traceable operation of organizations that inspect products, facilities, processes and services at an international level. While ISO 17025 focuses on laboratories and ISO 17065 on certification bodies, ISO 17020 introduces specific criteria for direct inspection/surveillance services.

Scope of Consulting

1. Inspection Types (A, B, C) and Structural Modeling
   • Type A: Fully independent inspection body.
   • Type B: Inspection unit that provides only services to its parent organization.
   • Type C: A unit that can provide services both to its parent organization and outside.

   In consultancy, the most appropriate type is selected according to the scope of activity of the organization and impartiality risks are analyzed and documented.

2. Impartiality and Independence Mechanisms
   • Separation of inspection personnel and commercial marketing activities.
   • Preparation of risk matrix for conflict of interest.
   • Terms of reference and decision-making powers of the impartiality committee.
3. Technical Competence and Measurement Traceability
   • Calibration of inspection devices is provided by ISO 17025 accredited laboratories.
   • Securing measurement results with a traceability chain based on SI units.
   • Continuing training records and performance tests to demonstrate staff technical proficiency.
4. Inspection Methods and Validation
   • Developing field inspection scenarios as well as written procedures.
   • Re-examination, comparative examination and case analyzes for the validity of the methods.
   • Integration of sampling plan + inspection criteria + acceptance/rejection decision rules.
5. Reporting and Information Security
   • Preparation of inspection reports with the principles of technical accuracy, impartiality and integrity.
   • Securing reports with digital systems.
   • Data integrity checks against the risk of report fraud.

Sample Impartiality Risk Matrix

Conclusion

ISO 17020 consulting is a critical step not only to obtain accreditation, but also to ensure that customers have confidence in inspection and inspection reports. Astor Mayer Our aim as; To strengthen the impartiality and independence mechanisms of inspection bodies, to support technical competence with measurement traceability and to establish a sustainable structure with digitalized reporting security.