Accreditation programs and scopes
IAC operates three accreditation programs, each aligned with a specific international conformity assessment standard. Every program defines scope, eligibility criteria, and required evidence. Select a program below to view detailed requirements and criteria documents.
Testing Laboratories
Standard: ISO/IEC 17025
Accreditation for laboratories performing defined testing activities using validated methods. Covers chemical, physical, biological, mechanical, electrical, and environmental testing.
- Method validation and verification
- Measurement uncertainty evaluation
- Proficiency testing participation
- Sampling procedures (where applicable)
Calibration Laboratories
Standard: ISO/IEC 17025
Accreditation for calibration services with metrological traceability, uncertainty management, and environmental controls. Covers dimensional, mass, temperature, pressure, electrical, and optical measurements.
- Metrological traceability chains
- Uncertainty budget documentation
- Environmental condition monitoring
- Calibration interval justification
Inspection Bodies
Standard: ISO/IEC 17020
Accreditation for inspection bodies performing conformity assessments within defined regulatory or voluntary schemes. Covers Type A, B, and C independence classifications.
- Independence type classification (A/B/C)
- Inspector qualification requirements
- Inspection reporting templates
- Regulatory scheme alignment
Program comparison
| Aspect | Testing Labs | Calibration Labs | Inspection Bodies |
|---|---|---|---|
| Governing standard | ISO/IEC 17025 | ISO/IEC 17025 | ISO/IEC 17020 |
| Application fee | $2,000 | $2,000 | $2,500 |
| Typical assessment days | 2–5 | 2–4 | 3–6 |
| Accreditation cycle | 4 years | 4 years | 4 years |
| Surveillance frequency | Annual (Year 2 & 3) | Annual (Year 2 & 3) | Annual (Year 2 & 3) |
| PT/ILC required | Yes | Yes | No (observation-based) |