WHY TESTING LABORATORIES LOSE CONTROL OF THEIR LABORATORY QUALITY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM?
ISO/IEC 17025 STANDARD
Nou Ako
SUSTAINING THE QUALITY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM IS NOT AN EASY FEAT
I understand and agree that maintaining a Laboratory’s Accreditation with ACCREDITATION BODIES in accordance with the requirements of the internationally recognised ISO/IEC 17025 is of paramount importance for Testing and Calibration Laboratories. However, I also realise, and I can attest to this as a fact, that sustaining the Quality Management System is not an easy feat for any one laboratory.
The Laboratory Quality Management System demands an ongoing and steadfast evaluation and monitoring in all aspects of the Quality System. Almost an army-like approach with devoted staff. Sadly, laboratories are overwhelmed with analytical responsibilities coupled with issues associated with competency of staff that they lose control of their Quality System and realise this discrepancy, often consisting of a long list of Non-Conformances, far too late.
THERE IS NO ONE-ACTION-FIX-ALL REMEDY
In such circumstances, laboratories will attest to the fact that there is no one-action-fix-all remedy.
There is normally a long list of Corrective Actions, resulting from the domino effect of one non-conformance affecting other aspects and/or requirements of the Quality System.
The Corrective Actions are usually daunting, intimidating and at times serve as a deterrent for the inexperienced chemist. Even seasoned professionals, Analytical Chemists with years of experience in the job and those responsible for QAQC, find themselves overwhelmed at times.
SADLY, BUT TRUE...
Sadly, but true, laboratories lose their Laboratory Accreditations with ACCREDITATION BODIES from simply their lack of on-going commitment and dedication towards maintaining control of their Quality System.
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