Course Introduction
The ICTQual ISO/IEC 17025:2017(en) Testing and Calibration Laboratories Lead Auditor course is designed to provide comprehensive training for individuals aiming to become lead auditors in the field of testing and calibration laboratories. This course equips participants with the necessary knowledge and skills to conduct effective audits of quality management systems based on ISO/IEC 17025:2017 standards.
Course Overview
The course covers the principles and practices of auditing in the context of ISO/IEC 17025:2017, which specifies the general requirements for the competence, impartiality, and consistent operation of laboratories. Participants will learn how to plan, execute, report, and follow up on audits, ensuring that laboratories meet the required standards for testing and calibration activities.
Course Study Units
- Introduction to ISO/IEC 17025:2017 Standard
- Principles of Quality Management Systems in Laboratories
- Requirements for Competence of Personnel
- Equipment and Measurement Traceability
- Testing and Calibration Procedures
- Quality Assurance Practices
- Audit Planning and Preparation
- Conducting Audit Activities
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
- Introduction to ISO/IEC 17025:2017 Standard
- Understand the purpose, scope, and significance of ISO/IEC 17025:2017 standard in testing and calibration laboratories.
- Identify the structure, key requirements, and principles outlined in ISO/IEC 17025:2017.
- Recognize the role of Lead Auditors in auditing laboratories against ISO/IEC 17025:2017 requirements.
- Principles of Quality Management Systems in Laboratories
- Define the fundamental principles of quality management systems (QMS) and their application in testing and calibration laboratories.
- Explain how QMS principles contribute to ensuring the competence, reliability, and consistency of laboratory operations.
- Discuss the integration of ISO/IEC 17025:2017 requirements with existing QMS frameworks in laboratories.
- Requirements for Competence of Personnel
- Identify the requirements specified in ISO/IEC 17025:2017 for assessing the competence of laboratory personnel.
- Recognize criteria for evaluating the qualifications, training, and experience of laboratory staff.
- Understand the importance of continuous professional development and competency assessments for maintaining personnel competence.
- Equipment and Measurement Traceability
- Explain the requirements outlined in ISO/IEC 17025:2017 for the calibration, maintenance, and management of equipment in laboratories.
- Understand the principles of measurement traceability and its significance in ensuring the accuracy and reliability of test results.
- Verify measurement uncertainty and traceability chains in laboratory operations according to ISO/IEC 17025:2017 requirements.
- Testing and Calibration Procedures
- Discuss the requirements for testing and calibration procedures specified in ISO/IEC 17025:2017.
- Describe the development, validation, and documentation of test methods and calibration procedures.
- Evaluate the effectiveness, accuracy, and reliability of testing and calibration activities in accordance with ISO/IEC 17025:2017.
- Quality Assurance Practices
- Explain the principles and practices of quality assurance in testing and calibration laboratories.
- Identify requirements for proficiency testing, inter-laboratory comparisons, and internal quality control measures according to ISO/IEC 17025:2017.
- Document, monitor, and review quality assurance activities to ensure compliance with ISO/IEC 17025:2017 standards.
- Audit Planning and Preparation
- Develop audit plans, checklists, and procedures based on ISO/IEC 17025:2017 requirements for planning and preparing audits.
- Identify audit objectives, scope, criteria, and resources necessary for conducting effective audits of testing and calibration laboratories.
- Ensure thorough preparation and documentation to facilitate successful audit activities.
- Conducting Audit Activities
- Apply principles and practices for conducting audit activities in conformity with ISO/IEC 17025:2017 standards.
- Conduct opening meetings, interviews, document reviews, and on-site observations effectively during audits.
- Identify non-conformities, deviations from standards, and opportunities for improvement in laboratory operations through audit activities.
Course Benefits
- Professional Development: Gain expertise in ISO/IEC 17025:2017 standards and auditing practices.
- Career Advancement: Increase your qualifications and opportunities for roles in quality management and auditing.
- Practical Skills: Develop hands-on auditing skills through case studies and role-playing exercises.
- Quality Improvement: Contribute to the continuous improvement of laboratory operations and quality assurance.
Who is This Course For?
- Quality Managers and Auditors: Professionals responsible for auditing and managing quality systems in laboratories.
- Laboratory Managers and Supervisors: Individuals overseeing testing and calibration activities in laboratories.
- Consultants: Experts providing advisory services to laboratories on quality management and compliance.
- Technical Staff: Personnel involved in laboratory testing, calibration, and quality control functions.
Future Progression
Upon completing this course, participants can pursue further qualifications and certifications, such as:
- Lead Auditor Certification: Obtain formal recognition as a certified lead auditor.
- Advanced ISO Courses: Enroll in advanced courses on ISO standards related to laboratory management and quality assurance.
- Professional Memberships: Join professional bodies and associations in the field of quality management and auditing.
- Career Opportunities: Explore roles in quality assurance, regulatory compliance, and consultancy services in the testing and calibration industry.
