Testing and Calibration Laboratories: Keys to Ensuring Accuracy and Reliability
Having a trusted testing and calibration laboratory makes all the difference in the food or environmental industry. The reliability of the data obtained in these laboratories ensures compliance with technical regulations, protects the quality of the final product, reduces errors, and strengthens the reputation of any organization.
At GSC, as an accredited provider for obtaining ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation, we support our clients in achieving compliance with the standard. Want to know how? Today we cover the key elements that must be considered to ensure the accuracy, traceability, and reliability of the results issued by these laboratories.
What is a testing and calibration laboratory?
A testing laboratory conducts tests to determine the physical, chemical, mechanical, or microbiological properties of a sample or product. Meanwhile, a calibration laboratory compares measuring instruments with certified reference standards to ensure their accuracy.
Both types of laboratories are essential in production chains, quality control, and validation processes, and must operate under strict technical standards so that their results are valid, repeatable, and recognized nationally and internationally.
ISO/IEC 17025 Accreditation: The foundation of technical competence
The ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation is the international standard that sets out the requirements a testing and calibration laboratory must meet to demonstrate its technical competence, the validity of its results, and the effectiveness of its quality management system.
At GSC, we help laboratories implement this accreditation efficiently and tailored to their resources and objectives, guiding the entire process from the initial gap assessment to the accreditation audit. Achieving ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation is a guarantee of trust for clients, regulatory authorities, and certification bodies.
Keys to ensuring reliability in testing and calibration laboratories
One of the cornerstones of a quality laboratory is its human team. Technical training, proficiency in analytical methods, and a deep understanding of procedures ensure that each test or calibration is performed consistently and reliably. At GSC, we offer training programs specifically designed to strengthen the skills of technical and administrative staff.
Calibrated and maintained equipment
In a calibration laboratory, equipment takes center stage. Its accuracy directly depends on proper maintenance and the traceability of its calibrations. It is essential to work with instruments verified against recognized standards and to ensure that calibration intervals are well-defined, documented, and justified.
Metrological traceability
Every reliable result must be traceable to national or international standards, in accordance with metrology principles. Traceability ensures that measurements are not random but part of a coherent, recognized system—key for comparing and accepting them worldwide.
Method validation
A testing or calibration method must be validated before routine use. This involves demonstrating that the procedure is fit for purpose and provides accurate, precise, and repeatable results. GSC advises laboratories on method validation according to the type of test and the scope of the management system.
Uncertainty management
Every measurement carries a margin of error. The estimation of measurement uncertainty is a core requirement of ISO/IEC 17025 and reflects the laboratory’s technical level. Proper calculation of uncertainty not only provides transparency but also strengthens the credibility of the results.
Internal and external quality control
The implementation of internal quality controls (replicates, blanks, control standards) and participation in external or interlaboratory proficiency testing reinforces confidence in result reliability.
GSC guides laboratories in designing effective quality control plans and in the interpretation of intercomparison results.
Why trust GSC?
At GSC, we don’t just apply regulatory requirements—we adapt them to your operational reality, promoting an efficient and sustainable quality management system. We support our clients in every stage:
- Initial gap assessment.
- Development of technical documentation and the management system.
- Team training.
- Internal audit simulations.
- Support during accreditation audits.
- Post-accreditation continuous improvement.
We have experience across multiple sectors and laboratory types, allowing us to offer practical, customized solutions focused on real results.
A testing and calibration laboratory that operates with precision, reliability, and under internationally recognized standards not only improves its technical performance: it becomes a strategic partner of value for its clients and production sectors.
At GSC, we work to help laboratories achieve this level of excellence and recognition. If you are considering implementing a management system based on ISO/IEC 17025 or want to optimize the one you already have, contact us. We will help you turn your laboratory into a benchmark for quality and trust.
