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ISO/IEC 17020:2012 Inspection Bodies

The standard for the competence and impartiality of bodies performing inspection — across types A, B and C.

ISO/IEC17020Inspection
Focus
Inspection Competence
Ideal For
Inspection bodies
Framework
Type A / B / C
Validity
Accreditation cycle
Inspection body at work
17020
Inspection Competence
Accreditation Support

What is ISO/IEC 17020?

ISO/IEC 17020 specifies requirements for the competence of bodies performing inspection and for the impartiality and consistency of their inspection activities.

It applies to inspection bodies of types A, B and C and covers everything from organizational independence to the qualification of inspectors. IQS supports inspection bodies in achieving and maintaining accreditation.

  • Impartiality — independence appropriate to the inspection body type.
  • Competent inspectors — qualified, trained and authorized personnel.
  • Consistent methods — documented inspection methods and procedures.
Why It Matters

Benefits of ISO/IEC 17020

Accreditation that proves your inspection results are competent, impartial and consistent.

TRUST

Credible inspections

Demonstrate competent, impartial inspection to clients and regulators.

RECOGNITION

Wider acceptance

Have inspection results recognized in regulated markets.

IMPARTIALITY

Independence

Show the level of independence required for your body type.

MARKETS

Win mandates

Meet prerequisites for statutory and contractual inspection work.

CONSISTENCY

Repeatable results

Apply documented, consistent inspection methods.

IMPROVE

Stronger system

Continually improve competence and quality.

Key Requirements

What ISO/IEC 17020 involves

The core areas your organization will address with IQS support.

  • 1Independence & impartialityMeet the requirements for your inspection body type.
  • 2Inspector competenceQualify, train and authorize inspectors.
  • 3Inspection methodsUse documented methods and contractual requirements.
  • 4Equipment controlMaintain and calibrate inspection equipment.
  • 5Records & reportsProduce clear, traceable inspection reports.
  • 6Complaints & appealsHandle complaints, appeals and quality control.
Who Needs It

Who benefits from ISO/IEC 17020

Inspection Bodies
Engineering Inspection
Lifting & Pressure Equipment
Construction
Commodity Inspection
Electrical & Safety
The Pathway

How IQS supports your ISO/IEC 17020 accreditation

A transparent, impartial route from first contact through to ongoing support.

01

Gap Assessment

We assess your laboratory or body against the accreditation standard and identify gaps.

02

System Development

We help build the management system, procedures, methods and competence records.

03

Internal Audit & Review

Internal audits and a management review confirm readiness before the assessment.

04

Accreditation & Surveillance

Support through the accreditation body assessment and ongoing surveillance.

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Ready to accredit your inspection body?

Talk to our team for a free, no-obligation discussion about ISO/IEC 17020 — usually within one business day.