The overviewAbout this accreditation
ISO/IEC 17043 is a standard that outlines the general requirements for the competence of providers of proficiency testing schemes. Proficiency testing is a critical tool for laboratories to assess and demonstrate their technical competence. Accreditation to ISO/IEC 17043 ensures that Proficiency Testing Laboratory maintains high standards in organizing and conducting these schemes.
Programme eligibilityIs this programme suitable?
Applies to providers seeking accreditation for the design, preparation, operation, evaluation and reporting of defined proficiency testing schemes.
- Define each PT scheme by measurand or characteristic, matrix or item, participant population, frequency, statistical design and assigned-value approach.
- Demonstrate competence for scheme planning, item production, homogeneity and stability studies, assigned values, statistical evaluation and technical interpretation.
- Control subcontracted activities and identify activities that may not be subcontracted under the applicable requirements.
Why accreditation matters
Benefits for your organisation
01Enhanced Credibility
Proficiency Testing Laboratory Accreditation according to ISO/IEC 17043 enhances the credibility of proficiency testing providers. It signifies adherence to internationally recognized standards, giving confidence to participants and stakeholders in the proficiency testing process.
02Global Recognition
Proficiency testing schemes accredited to ISO/IEC 17043 are globally recognized. This recognition facilitates the acceptance of proficiency testing results across borders, supporting international trade and collaboration.
03Quality Assurance
Accreditation ensures that proficiency testing providers maintain a robust quality management system. This focus on quality assurance leads to more reliable and accurate proficiency testing results, benefiting both laboratories and industries.
04Consistency and Objectivity
ISO/IEC 17043 accreditation emphasizes the importance of consistent and objective proficiency testing processes. This ensures that participants receive fair and unbiased assessments of their testing and calibration capabilities.
05Compliance with Standards
Accredited Proficiency Testing Laboratory operates in compliance with ISO/IEC 17043, aligning their processes with international standards. This alignment contributes to the overall reliability and integrity of proficiency testing activities.
06Competence Demonstration
Accreditation provides a formal recognition of the competence of proficiency testing providers. This demonstration of competence is vital for laboratories and organizations relying on proficiency testing to validate their testing and calibration capabilities.
07Risk Mitigation
Proficiency testing providers accredited to ISO/IEC 17043 follow a systematic approach to identify and mitigate risks associated with proficiency testing activities. This ensures the accuracy and reliability of proficiency testing results.
08Continuous Improvement
Accreditation encourages proficiency testing providers to adopt continuous improvement practices. This commitment to ongoing enhancement ensures that proficiency testing schemes stay current with evolving industry standards and best practices.
Transparent assessment pathwayHow accreditation works
1Enquiry
2Application
3Scope review
4Document review
5Assessment
6Corrective action
7Decision
8Surveillance
Application evidenceDocuments to prepare
Legal identity, organisation and impartiality controls
Provide current, approved evidence relevant to the activities and locations in your proposed scope. ISCB may request additional records after scope review.
Scheme catalogue and proposed scope
Provide current, approved evidence relevant to the activities and locations in your proposed scope. ISCB may request additional records after scope review.
Scheme plans, statistical designs and assigned-value procedures
Provide current, approved evidence relevant to the activities and locations in your proposed scope. ISCB may request additional records after scope review.
Homogeneity, stability and item-production records
Provide current, approved evidence relevant to the activities and locations in your proposed scope. ISCB may request additional records after scope review.
Coordinator and technical personnel competence records
Provide current, approved evidence relevant to the activities and locations in your proposed scope. ISCB may request additional records after scope review.
Representative scheme cycle, participant data and reports
Provide current, approved evidence relevant to the activities and locations in your proposed scope. ISCB may request additional records after scope review.
Subcontractor and externally provided service controls
Provide current, approved evidence relevant to the activities and locations in your proposed scope. ISCB may request additional records after scope review.
Internal audit, management review, complaints and corrective actions
Provide current, approved evidence relevant to the activities and locations in your proposed scope. ISCB may request additional records after scope review.
Clear fee basisWhat shapes the quotation
ScopeTechnical breadth
Activities, schemes, methods and technical sectors included.
OrganisationSites and people
Locations, personnel, operating complexity and sampling needs.
AssessmentReview and witnessing
Document review, assessment days, witnessing and specialist expertise.
Request a formal quotation ↗Controlled programme documentISO/IEC 17043 applicant requirements
Read the ISCB requirements online or download the controlled PDF guide covering eligibility, impartiality, competence, operating evidence, assessment and continued accreditation.
Take the next stepFind, price and apply
Use guided tools to confirm the likely route, request a scope-based quotation and apply when prepared.