ISO/IEC 17025:2017 Awareness Series # 20 Clause 6.6 EXTERNALLY PROVIDED PRODUCTS AND SERVICES

ISO/IEC 17025:2017

ISO/IEC 17025:2017 Awareness Series # 20 Clause 6.6 Externally provided products and services

Mastering Clause 6.6 of ISO/IEC 17025:2017 – Ensuring the Integrity of External Resources ??

 In the world of testing and calibration laboratories, compliance with ISO/IEC 17025:2017 is a mark of excellence. Clause 6.6 – Externally Provided Products and Services plays a vital role in ensuring the reliability of laboratory operations.        

Let’s explore the key aspects of Clause 6.6 and why it’s critical:

What Does Clause 6.6 Cover?

Clause 6.6 outlines the requirements for controlling products and services provided by external suppliers that impact the affect the laboratory activities.

Key Highlights:

1.????? Selection and Evaluation: Laboratories must establish criteria to select and evaluate external providers. This ensures suppliers meet specified requirements.

2.????? Performance Monitoring: Continuous monitoring of supplier performance is essential to maintain quality.

3.????? Documentation: Clear records of supplier approvals, evaluations, and performance must be maintained.

4.????? Communication: Requirements for externally provided products/services must be clearly communicated to suppliers.

Why Is Clause 6.6 Important?

• Guarantees consistency in the quality of materials, equipment, and services.
• Minimizes risks associated with non-conforming supplies.
• Builds trust and credibility with clients by ensuring reliable and accurate results.

Implementing Clause 6.6 Effectively:

? Identify critical products/services impacting quality.

? Develop criteria for supplier evaluation and approval.

? Regularly review supplier performance.

? Maintain comprehensive records for traceability.

Key typical Products and Services considered under this clause

Products can include, for example, measurement standards and equipment, auxiliary equipment, consumable materials and reference materials.

Services can include, for example, calibration services, sampling services, testing services, facility and equipment maintenance services, proficiency testing services and assessment and auditing services

Your Turn:

How has implementing Clause 6.6 improved your laboratory operations? Share your experiences and insights in the comments! Let’s learn from each other and continue striving for excellence in laboratory practices. ??

I will keep on sharing similar kind of knowledge sharing posts, Happy Learning.

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