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Posted on 07 Nov,2025

What is ISO 17034? Understanding Reference Material Producers Accreditation

???? What is ISO 17034?

ISO 17034:2016 is the international standard that specifies general requirements for the competence of Reference Material Producers (RMPs). Reference materials (RMs) are critical in ensuring the accuracy, reliability, and comparability of measurements across laboratories worldwide.

This standard ensures that organizations producing RMs have the technical capability, quality systems, and impartiality to provide materials that are fit for their intended use.

???? Why is ISO 17034 Important?

·         Quality & Traceability – Ensures RMs are produced with reliable values traceable to SI units or internationally accepted references.

·         Global Recognition – Accreditation under ISO 17034 provides international acceptance of reference materials.

·         Confidence in Results – Laboratories using certified reference materials (CRMs) from ISO 17034-accredited producers can trust the accuracy of their measurements.

·         Support for ISO/IEC 17025 & ISO 15189 Labs – Accredited RMs help testing, calibration, and medical laboratories maintain measurement validity.

???? Key Requirements of ISO 17034

·         Competence of personnel involved in RM production.

·         Clear procedures for material characterization, homogeneity, and stability testing.

·         Robust quality management system.

·         Proper assignment of property values with stated uncertainties.

·         Ensuring impartiality and confidentiality in production and reporting.

???? Benefits of Accreditation for RMPs

1.      Demonstrates technical competence and reliability.

2.      Enhances credibility and market acceptance of reference materials.

3.      Provides laboratories with confidence in measurement traceability.

4.      Strengthens global trade by harmonizing measurement standards.

✅ Key Takeaway

ISO 17034 accreditation assures that Reference Material Producers operate with the highest standards of competence and quality. By ensuring the reliability of reference materials, this accreditation plays a vital role in building trust in measurements and supporting industries, laboratories, and regulators worldwide.