ISO/IEC 17020:2012
Managing Inspection Processes under ISO/IEC 17020
A guide to Clause 7 requirements: from contract review to inspection methods and reporting.
Introduction
Clause 7 of ISO/IEC 17020:2012 covers the core business of an inspection body: the inspection process itself. It ensures that inspections are planned, executed, and reported in a consistent and reliable manner.
7.1 Inspection Methods and Procedures
You must use appropriate methods and procedures.
- Standard Methods: Use methods defined in regulations, standards, or specifications.
- Non-Standard Methods: If you develop your own methods, they must be validated.
- Instructions: Provide written instructions for planning inspections, sampling, and inspection techniques if the absence of such instructions could jeopardize effectiveness.
7.2 Handling Inspection Items
Ensure the integrity of the items you inspect.
- Identification: Uniquely identify items to avoid confusion.
- Abnormalities: If an item has apparent abnormalities, record them and consult the client before proceeding.
- Protection: Protect items from deterioration or damage while in your custody.
7.3 Inspection Records
Records are the evidence of your work.
- Traceability: Records must indicate which specific equipment was used (if it affects the result).
- Detail: Records should be sufficient to enable the inspection to be repeated.
- Original Data: Don’t just record the final result; keep the raw data / observations.
7.4 Inspection Reports
The final output is the inspection report or certificate.
- Content: Must include identification of the issuing body, unique ID, date of inspection, identification of the item, results, and a statement of conformity (if applicable).
- Sign-off: Must be signed or approved by authorized personnel.
- Corrections: Amendments to reports must be clearly identified.
7.5 Complaints and Appeals
You must have a documented process to receive, evaluate, and make decisions on complaints and appeals.
- Independence: The decision must be made by, or reviewed by, person(s) not involved in the original inspection activities.
- Communication: You must acknowledge receipt and provide progress reports to the complainant.