ISO/IEC 17020 is the definitive international standard for organizations performing Inspections. It specifies requirements for the competence of bodies performing inspections and for the impartiality and consistency of their activities. At Qualiguard, we provide expert certification services that validate your technical judgment, ensuring that your inspection results are accurate, unbiased, and trusted by regulators and industry partners worldwide.
Achieving ISO 17020 certification with Qualiguard enables your organization to:
Demonstrate that your inspection activities are free from commercial, financial, or other pressures that could compromise judgment.
Strengthen your alignment with both national and international food safety laws and regulatory mandates.
Establish consistent, documented procedures for every inspection, ensuring reliability across all field operations
Gain international recognition, making your inspection reports and certificates acceptable in global markets and by regulatory bodies
Minimize the risk of errors in judgment through a structured management system and rigorous quality control.
Fulfill the mandatory accreditation requirements often required for government-appointed inspection bodies and third-party agencies.
Application & Scope Definition: Define your inspection categories (Type A, B, or C) and technical scope to receive a tailored proposal.
Stage 1 Audit (Readiness Review): We evaluate your management system documentation, independence criteria, and inspection procedures.
Stage 2 Audit (Technical Assessment): A detailed assessment, including on-site witnessing of your inspectors in action to verify their technical proficiency.
Certification Decision: Following a successful technical review and closure of any non-conformities, your official ISO 17020 certificate is issued.
Surveillance (Years 1 & 2): Annual audits to monitor continued impartiality, inspector performance, and the effectiveness of your equipment maintenance.
Recertification: A comprehensive full-system and technical reassessment every three years to renew your global accreditation.
Inspection Industry Experts: Our auditors come from diverse technical backgrounds, including engineering, safety, and industrial inspection.
On-Site Witnessing Focus: We provide valuable feedback during practical field assessments to help improve your real-world inspection techniques.
Independence Validation: Specialized expertise in evaluating independence and impartiality structures for Type A, B, and C bodies.
Efficient Process Management: Dedicated support to ensure your accreditation journey is transparent, well-planned, and results-oriented.
ISO 17020 is essential for bodies performing:
Engineering & Industrial Inspections (e.g., pressure equipment, lifting gear)
Building & Construction Site Inspections
Environmental & Health Safety Inspections
Food & Agricultural Product Inspections
Transport & Vehicle Safety Inspections
Cargo & Shipping Surveys
Legal & Forensic Inspections