ISO/IEC 17025 is the international standard that outlines the general requirements for the competence of testing and calibration laboratories. To achieve and maintain ISO 17025 Certification in Dubai, laboratories must ensure proper documentation and retention of critical records. These records are essential not only for audits and reviews but also to demonstrate the lab's technical competence, impartiality, and consistent operation.

Below is an overview of the key records that must be retained to ensure compliance with ISO 17025:

1. Personnel Records

ISO 17025 requires laboratories to demonstrate the competency of their staff. Therefore, records that must be retained include:

• Resumes and qualifications

• Training records and certifications

• Records of competence evaluations

• Job descriptions and responsibilities

Maintaining detailed personnel records ensures that staff qualifications align with the requirements for specific tasks.

2. Equipment and Calibration Records

To provide accurate testing and calibration, laboratories must use properly calibrated and maintained equipment. Relevant records include:

• Equipment identification and inventory lists

• Calibration certificates and schedules

• Maintenance logs

• Equipment performance verification records

• Records of corrective actions for faulty equipment

Properly managing these records proves that the laboratory’s measurement tools are reliable and accurate.

3. Test and Calibration Methods

Laboratories must retain documented procedures for all test and calibration activities. These records include:

• Standard operating procedures (SOPs)

• Method validation and verification reports

• References to international or national standards

• Records of updates or revisions to procedures

These documents support the consistency and repeatability of laboratory methods.

4. Sampling Records

For laboratories involved in sampling, ISO 17025 mandates detailed sampling plans and documentation. These include:

• Sampling procedures

• Date, time, and conditions of sampling

• Identification of the person who collected the sample

• Sample traceability and labeling

Proper sampling records ensure the integrity of the results obtained.

5. Test and Calibration Results

Perhaps the most critical records are the actual results of tests and calibrations. Laboratories must maintain:

• Raw data

• Calculations and derivations

• Final reports and certificates

• Deviations or anomalies noted during testing

These results provide the foundation for quality assurance and customer trust.

6. Customer Communication

ISO 17025 emphasizes clear communication with customers. Retained records should include:

• Requests and contracts

• Quotations and purchase orders

• Customer feedback and complaints

• Clarifications and amendments to agreements

Retaining these records demonstrates transparency and responsiveness.

7. Internal Audits and Management Reviews

Internal audits and management reviews are crucial components of ISO 17025. Required records include:

• Audit schedules and plans

• Audit reports and findings

• Corrective and preventive actions

• Management review meeting minutes and outcomes

These records confirm ongoing compliance and continual improvement efforts.

8. Nonconformities and Corrective Actions

When deviations or nonconformities occur, laboratories must document:

• Nonconformity reports

• Root cause analyses

• Corrective and preventive action plans

• Follow-up and closure of issues

These documents are essential to demonstrate the lab’s commitment to quality and compliance.

Partnering with ISO 17025 Experts in Dubai

Achieving compliance is a continuous journey that demands expert guidance. Organizations seeking ISO 17025 Certification in Dubai can benefit greatly from working with experienced professionals. ISO 17025 Consultants in Dubai can help identify required records, establish documentation protocols, and prepare for audits.

Whether you need assistance with system implementation or ongoing support, engaging ISO 17025 Services in Dubai ensures your laboratory is fully compliant with international standards, thus enhancing credibility and customer confidence.

Conclusion

Retaining comprehensive and accurate records is a cornerstone of ISO 17025 compliance. From personnel qualifications to test results and internal audits, each document plays a crucial role in demonstrating technical competence and consistent operation. By partnering with trusted ISO experts in Dubai, laboratories can streamline their compliance processes and maintain a strong quality management system aligned with ISO 17025 standards.