ISO/IEC 17020:2012 Requirements for the operation of various types of bodies performing inspection

International

vISO/IEC 17020:2012, second edition, published March 2012

6 domains

115 controls

ISO/IEC 17020:2012 sets what an inspection body must do to be accredited: impartiality and the Type A, B and C independence rules, competent and monitored inspectors, calibrated and traceable equipment, controlled methods and subcontracting, complete and traceable reports, complaints and appeals, and a management system.

A newer edition exists. ISO/IEC 17020:2026 (third edition, published March 2026).

Verified

ISO/IEC 17020:2012 Requirements for the operation of various types of bodies performing inspection is a compliance framework from International with 6 domains and 115 controls that map to 4 other frameworks. The largest domains are Clause 6: Resource requirements (personnel, facilities and equipment, subcontracting) – ISO/IEC 17020:2012 Requirements for the operation of various types of bodies performing inspection (32 controls), Clause 7: Process requirements (methods, items, records, reports, complaints and appeals) – ISO/IEC 17020:2012 Requirements for the operation of various types of bodies performing inspection (30 controls), Clause 8: Management system requirements (Option A and Option B) – ISO/IEC 17020:2012 Requirements for the operation of various types of bodies performing inspection (29 controls). Every control below carries what it requires and what an assessor expects to see.

Maintained by Gerard Blokdyk

Framework summaries on this platform are interpretations grounded in the published source, for educational and compliance planning purposes. They do not reproduce or replace the official standards. Refer to the authoritative source for the definitive text. Framework names and trademarks belong to their respective organisations.

Framework Domains (6)

Annex A: Independence requirements for Type A, B and C inspection bodies – ISO/IEC 17020:2012 Requirements for the operation of various types of bodies performing inspection

3 controls

Controls in the Annex A: Independence requirements for Type A, B and C inspection bodies – ISO/IEC 17020:2012 Requirements for the operation of various types of bodies performing inspection domain of ISO/IEC 17020:2012 Requirements for the operation of various types of bodies performing inspection: 3 controls
Code	Title	Description
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::A.1	Type A: third-party inspection body independence	A Type A body stands apart from every party involved. Neither it nor its staff do anything that could compromise indepen...
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::A.2	Type B: in-house inspection body independence	A Type B body supplies inspection only to the organisation it belongs to; the responsibilities of inspection personnel a...
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::A.3	Type C: safeguards for segregation of responsibilities	A Type C body builds internal safeguards that keep inspection responsibilities and accountabilities adequately apart fro...

Clause 4: General requirements (impartiality, independence, confidentiality) – ISO/IEC 17020:2012 Requirements for the operation of various types of bodies performing inspection

9 controls

Controls in the Clause 4: General requirements (impartiality, independence, confidentiality) – ISO/IEC 17020:2012 Requirements for the operation of various types of bodies performing inspection domain of ISO/IEC 17020:2012 Requirements for the operation of various types of bodies performing inspection: 9 controls
Code	Title	Description
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::4.1.1	Inspection undertaken impartially	Inspection activities are carried out impartially.
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::4.1.2	Responsibility for impartiality and freedom from pressure	The body is answerable for the impartiality of its inspections and does not let commercial, financial or other pressures...
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::4.1.3	Ongoing identification of risks to impartiality	The body identifies risks to its impartiality continuously, covering risks from its own activities, its relationships an...
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::4.1.4	Demonstrating how identified risks are eliminated or minimised	Once such a risk has been found, the body can show how it removes or reduces it.
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::4.1.5	Top management commitment to impartiality	Top management is committed to impartiality and the body can show that commitment.
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::4.1.6	Independence to the extent required: Types A, B and C	The body is as independent as the conditions of its services demand and meets the matching Annex A minimum: a third-part...
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::4.2.1	Legally enforceable confidentiality and notice of public information	Through legally enforceable commitments the body is responsible for managing all information obtained or created during...
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::4.2.2	Notifying the client when confidential information is released	When law or a contractual authorisation requires the body to release confidential information, it notifies the client or...
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::4.2.3	Information from other sources treated as confidential	What the body learns about a client from third parties, for instance a complainant or a regulator, is kept confidential...

Clause 5: Structural requirements (administrative, organisation and management) – ISO/IEC 17020:2012 Requirements for the operation of various types of bodies performing inspection

12 controls

Controls in the Clause 5: Structural requirements (administrative, organisation and management) – ISO/IEC 17020:2012 Requirements for the operation of various types of bodies performing inspection domain of ISO/IEC 17020:2012 Requirements for the operation of various types of bodies performing inspection: 12 controls
Code	Title	Description
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::5.1.1	Legal entity or defined part of one	The body has legal personality of its own or is a defined part of an entity that has it, so that legal responsibility fo...
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::5.1.2	Identifiable within a wider legal entity	Where the body is part of a legal entity that does other things, it is identifiable within that entity.
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::5.1.3	Documentation of the activities for which it is competent	The body documents the inspection activities for which it is competent.
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::5.1.4	Provision for liabilities	The body has adequate provision, such as insurance or reserves, for liabilities arising from its operations; liability m...
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::5.1.5	Documented contractual conditions	The body writes down the contract terms on which it inspects, except where it inspects only for the legal entity it belo...
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::5.2.1	Structured and managed to safeguard impartiality	The body is structured and managed so that impartiality is safeguarded.
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::5.2.2	Organised to maintain inspection capability	The body is organised and managed so it can maintain its capability to perform inspections, for example through exchange...
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::5.2.3	Defined and documented responsibilities and reporting structure	The body sets out in writing who is responsible for what and who reports to whom.
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::5.2.4	Relationship between inspection and other activities defined	If the body sits inside an entity that also does other work, the relationship between that work and the inspection activ...
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::5.2.5	Technical manager with overall responsibility	One or more technical managers carry overall responsibility for inspection being performed in accordance with the standa...
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::5.2.6	Named deputies for technical managers	For every technical manager who is responsible for inspections in progress, a named deputy stands in when that manager i...
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::5.2.7	Job descriptions for every position category	A job description or equivalent exists for each category of position involved in inspection activities.

Clause 6: Resource requirements (personnel, facilities and equipment, subcontracting) – ISO/IEC 17020:2012 Requirements for the operation of various types of bodies performing inspection

32 controls

Controls in the Clause 6: Resource requirements (personnel, facilities and equipment, subcontracting) – ISO/IEC 17020:2012 Requirements for the operation of various types of bodies performing inspection domain of ISO/IEC 17020:2012 Requirements for the operation of various types of bodies performing inspection: 32 controls
Code	Title	Description
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::6.1.1	Defined and documented competence requirements	The body writes down what competence each person engaged in inspection must have: schooling, training, technical underst...
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::6.1.10	Records of monitoring, training, experience and authorisation	For each person engaged in inspection the body keeps records of their monitoring results, schooling, training, technical...
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::6.1.11	Remuneration not influencing results	Personnel involved in inspection are not paid in a way that influences inspection results.
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::6.1.12	All personnel who could influence inspection act impartially	All internal and external personnel who could influence inspection activities act impartially.
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::6.1.13	Confidentiality by all personnel including subcontractors	Everyone working for the body, whether employed, subcontracted, seconded from another body or otherwise acting on its be...
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::6.1.2	Sufficient competent persons employed or contracted	The body employs or contracts enough people with the required competence, including the ability to make professional jud...
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::6.1.3	Qualifications, knowledge and understanding of deviations	Personnel responsible for inspection have appropriate qualifications, training, experience and knowledge of the inspecti...
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::6.1.4	Duties, responsibilities and authorities made clear	Each person is made aware of their duties, responsibilities and authorities.
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::6.1.5	Documented procedures for selecting, training, authorising and monitoring	The body has documented procedures for selecting, training, formally authorising and monitoring inspectors and other ins...
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::6.1.6	Training stages: induction, mentored period, continuing training	The training procedures cover three stages: an induction, a period of working under the guidance of experienced inspecto...
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::6.1.7	Training tailored to the person and to monitoring results	Training required for each inspector and other personnel depends on their ability, qualifications and experience and on...
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::6.1.8	Monitoring by personnel familiar with the methods	People who know the methods and procedures well monitor every inspector and everyone else engaged in inspection for sati...
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::6.1.9	On-site observation of each inspector	Each inspector is observed on site unless sufficient supporting evidence shows they continue to perform competently; obs...
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::6.2.1	Suitable and adequate facilities and equipment	The body has suitable and adequate facilities and equipment available for all inspection-related activities to be perfor...
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::6.2.10	Traceable reference materials	Reference materials are, where such exist and where possible, traceable to recognised national or international ones.
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::6.2.11	Supplier selection, verification of incoming goods and storage	Where relevant to inspection outcomes, the body has procedures for selecting and approving suppliers, verifying incoming...
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::6.2.12	Assessment of stored items for deterioration	Where it applies, stored items are checked from time to time so that any deterioration is caught.
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::6.2.13	Computers and automated equipment	If computers or automated equipment are used in connection with inspection, the body ensures the software is adequate fo...
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::6.2.14	Defective equipment removed and effects examined	The body has documented procedures for defective equipment: it is taken out of service by segregation, prominent labelli...
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::6.2.15	Equipment information recorded	Relevant information on equipment, including software, is recorded, including identification and where appropriate calib...
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::6.2.2	Rules for access to and use of facilities and equipment	The body sets rules on who may enter specified facilities and who may use specified equipment for inspections.
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::6.2.3	Continued suitability of facilities and equipment	The body ensures the facilities and equipment in 6.2.1 remain suitable for their intended use.
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::6.2.4	Equipment with significant influence defined and identified	All equipment with a significant influence on inspection results is defined and, where appropriate, uniquely identified.
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::6.2.5	Maintenance to documented procedures	Significant equipment is maintained according to documented procedures and instructions.
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::6.2.6	Calibration before service and to a programme	Where appropriate, measuring equipment with a significant influence on results is calibrated before first use and therea...
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::6.2.7	Traceability of measurements	The overall calibration programme ensures that, wherever applicable, measurements are traceable to national or internati...
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::6.2.8	Reference standards used only for calibration	Reference measurement standards held by the body are used only for calibration and are themselves calibrated with tracea...
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::6.2.9	In-service checks between recalibrations	Where it matters, equipment gets intermediate checks while in service, between its scheduled recalibrations.
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::6.3.1	Subcontracting only to demonstrably competent subcontractors	The body normally performs its contracted inspections itself; where it subcontracts any part, it ensures and can demonst...
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::6.3.2	Client informed of intention to subcontract	The body tells the client whenever it plans to pass part of an inspection to a subcontractor.
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::6.3.3	Responsibility for conformity determination stays with the body	Whenever subcontractors do work forming part of an inspection, responsibility for any determination of conformity remain...
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::6.3.4	Records of subcontractor investigation and a register	The body records and retains details of its investigation of subcontractor competence and conformity with the applicable...

Clause 7: Process requirements (methods, items, records, reports, complaints and appeals) – ISO/IEC 17020:2012 Requirements for the operation of various types of bodies performing inspection

30 controls

Controls in the Clause 7: Process requirements (methods, items, records, reports, complaints and appeals) – ISO/IEC 17020:2012 Requirements for the operation of various types of bodies performing inspection domain of ISO/IEC 17020:2012 Requirements for the operation of various types of bodies performing inspection: 30 controls
Code	Title	Description
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::7.1.1	Methods and procedures defined by the requirements, or developed	The body uses the inspection methods and procedures defined in the requirements it inspects against (regulations, standa...
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::7.1.2	Documented instructions for planning, sampling and techniques; statistical knowledge	The body has and uses adequate documented instructions on inspection planning, sampling and inspection techniques where...
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::7.1.3	Non-standard methods appropriate and fully documented	Non-standard methods or procedures (anything not published by standards bodies, reputable technical organisations, group...
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::7.1.4	Documents and reference data up to date and available	Every instruction, standard, written procedure, worksheet, checklist and item of reference data the body's work relies o...
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::7.1.5	Contract or work order control	Through its control of contracts and work orders the body makes sure that work is within its expertise with adequate res...
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::7.1.6	Verifying information supplied by others	Whenever information from someone else feeds into an inspection, the body checks that the information is sound.
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::7.1.7	Timely recording of observations and data	Observations and data obtained during inspection are recorded in a timely manner to prevent loss of relevant information...
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::7.1.8	Checks on calculations and data transfers	Calculations and data transfers, including textual and digital data moved between locations, are subject to appropriate...
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::7.1.9	Documented instructions for safe inspection	The body has documented instructions for carrying out inspection safely.
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::7.2.1	Unique identification of items and samples	Each item or sample presented for inspection carries an identifier of its own so that nothing is confused with anything...
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::7.2.2	Establishing whether the item has been prepared	Before inspecting, the body finds out whether the item has been prepared as required.
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::7.2.3	Recording abnormalities and contacting the client in case of doubt	Apparent abnormalities, whether reported to the inspector or spotted by them, are recorded; where it is doubtful that th...
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::7.2.4	Avoiding deterioration or damage to items	Written procedures and suitable facilities protect items from deteriorating or being damaged while in the body's care.
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::7.3.1	Record system demonstrating fulfilment of procedures	The body maintains a record system (see 8.4) that demonstrates the inspection procedures were effectively fulfilled and...
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::7.3.2	Reports and certificates traceable to the inspector	The inspection report or certificate is internally traceable to the inspector or inspectors who performed the inspection...
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::7.4.1	Retrievable report or certificate for all work	Every piece of inspection work results in a report or certificate that can be retrieved later.
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::7.4.2	Mandatory content of reports and certificates	Every inspection report or certificate includes identification of the issuing body, a unique identification and date of...
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::7.4.3	Certificates without results only with a traceable report	A certificate that omits the inspection results is issued only where a report holding those results also exists and each...
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::7.4.4	Correct, accurate and clear reporting; subcontracted results identified	Each mandatory element is reported correctly, accurately and clearly, and results supplied by subcontractors are clearly...
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::7.4.5	Corrections and amendments after issue	Corrections or additions to a report or certificate after issue are recorded under the requirements of 7.4, and an amend...
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::7.5.1	Documented process for complaints and appeals	A written process governs how complaints and appeals are received, assessed and decided.
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::7.5.2	Handling process available to interested parties	A description of the complaints and appeals handling process is available to any interested party on request.
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::7.5.3	Confirming responsibility and dealing with the complaint	When a complaint arrives the body first checks whether it concerns inspection work the body itself answers for; if it do...
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::7.5.4	Responsibility for all decisions in the handling process	The body is responsible for all decisions at every level of the complaints and appeals handling process.
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::7.5.5	Appeals without discriminatory actions	Investigation and decision on appeals do not lead to any discriminatory action against the appellant.
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::7.6.1	Elements of the complaints and appeals process	The handling process includes at least a description of how complaints and appeals are received, validated, investigated...
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::7.6.2	Gathering and verifying information to validate	The body receiving a complaint or appeal gathers and verifies all information necessary to validate it.
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::7.6.3	Acknowledgement, progress reports and outcome	Whenever possible the body acknowledges receipt of a complaint or appeal and gives the complainant or appellant progress...
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::7.6.4	Decision by persons not involved in the original inspection	Whoever decides the outcome sent to the complainant or appellant had no part in the inspection work being challenged, or...
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::7.6.5	Formal notice of the end of the process	Whenever possible the body gives the complainant or appellant formal notice that the handling process has ended.

Clause 8: Management system requirements (Option A and Option B) – ISO/IEC 17020:2012 Requirements for the operation of various types of bodies performing inspection

29 controls

Controls in the Clause 8: Management system requirements (Option A and Option B) – ISO/IEC 17020:2012 Requirements for the operation of various types of bodies performing inspection domain of ISO/IEC 17020:2012 Requirements for the operation of various types of bodies performing inspection: 29 controls
Code	Title	Description
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::8.1.1	Management system under Option A or Option B	The body establishes and maintains a management system capable of consistently fulfilling the standard, following either...
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::8.1.2	Option A content	Under Option A the management system addresses management system documentation (manual, policies, responsibilities), con...
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::8.1.3	Option B: ISO 9001-based system	Under Option B a body running an ISO 9001 management system that is able to support and demonstrate consistent fulfilmen...
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::8.2.1	Policies and objectives established and implemented at all levels	Top management establishes, documents and maintains policies and objectives for fulfilling the standard and sees that ev...
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::8.2.2	Evidence of top management commitment	Top management provides evidence of commitment to developing and implementing the management system and to its working w...
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::8.2.3	Appointed management representative	Top management appoints a member of management who, whatever other duties they hold, has responsibility and authority to...
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::8.2.4	All documentation and records included or linked	All documentation, processes, systems and records related to fulfilling the standard are included in, referenced by or l...
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::8.2.5	Personnel access to applicable documentation	Everyone engaged in inspection can reach the system documentation and related information that bears on their own respon...
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::8.3.1	Procedures to control documents	The body establishes procedures to control internal and external documents that relate to fulfilling the standard.
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::8.3.2	Document control elements	The procedures define controls to approve documents before issue, review and update and re-approve them, identify change...
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::8.4.1	Controls for records	The body establishes procedures that say how records related to the standard are identified, stored, protected and retri...
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::8.4.2	Retention consistent with obligations and confidentiality	Records are retained for a period consistent with the body's contractual and legal obligations, and access to them is co...
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::8.5.1.1	Management review procedures	Top management establishes procedures for reviewing the management system at planned intervals, checking that it, and th...
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::8.5.1.2	Review at least annually or rolling within twelve months	Reviews take place at least once a year, or a complete review split into segments (a rolling review) is finished within...
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::8.5.1.3	Records of reviews	Records of management reviews are maintained.
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::8.5.2	Management review inputs	Review inputs include results of internal and external audits, feedback from clients and interested parties on fulfilmen...
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::8.5.3	Management review outputs	Review outputs include decisions and actions on improving the effectiveness of the system and its processes, improving t...
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::8.6.1	Internal audit procedures	The body establishes internal audit procedures to check that the body meets the standard and that its management system...
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::8.6.2	Planned audit programme	An audit programme is planned weighted by how much each process or area matters and by what earlier audits found.
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::8.6.3	Periodic audits covering all procedures	Internal audits recur on a plan, reach every procedure in turn, and check that the system operates and works.
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::8.6.4	Audit frequency at least every twelve months	Internal audits are performed at least every twelve months; frequency may be adjusted according to the demonstrated effe...
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::8.6.5	Audit conduct: competence, independence, communication, action, documentation	Internal audits are carried out by qualified people who understand inspection, auditing and this standard, and no one au...
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::8.7.1	Procedures for identifying and managing nonconformities	The body establishes procedures for identifying and managing nonconformities in its operations.
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::8.7.2	Eliminating causes to prevent recurrence	Where necessary the body acts to eliminate the causes of nonconformities so they do not recur.
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::8.7.3	Corrective actions proportionate to impact	Corrective action is scaled to how much harm the problem did or could do.
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::8.7.4	Corrective action procedure elements	The procedures define requirements for identifying nonconformities, determining their causes, correcting them, deciding...
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::8.8.1	Procedures for preventive action	The body establishes a preventive action procedure that removes the causes of nonconformities before they occur.
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::8.8.2	Preventive actions proportionate to probable impact	Preventive action is scaled to the likely harm of the problem it heads off.
iso-iec-17020-2012-requirements-for-the-operation-of-various-types-of-bodies-performing-inspection::8.8.3	Preventive action procedure elements	The procedures define requirements for identifying potential nonconformities and their causes, deciding whether action i...

Your Compliance Coverage

If you comply with ISO/IEC 17020:2012 Requirements for the operation of various types of bodies performing inspection, you already cover:

ISO/IEC 17025:2017 - General Requirements for Testing and Calibration

27%

31 controls mapped

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EU Statutory Audit Directive (Directive 2006/43/EC)

7 controls mapped

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Sweden MCFFS 2026:12 Security Audit and Security Scanning Regulations

4 controls mapped

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+ 1 more: ISO 15189:2022 - Medical Laboratories Requirements for Quality and Competence (1%)

See all 4 mapped frameworks ↓

Maps to 4 other frameworks

115 total controls

ISO/IEC 17025:2017 - General Requirements for Testing and Calibration

31 source controls mapped|21 target controls covered

27%

EU Statutory Audit Directive (Directive 2006/43/EC)

7 source controls mapped|8 target controls covered

Sweden MCFFS 2026:12 Security Audit and Security Scanning Regulations

4 source controls mapped|4 target controls covered

ISO 15189:2022 - Medical Laboratories Requirements for Quality and Competence

1 source controls mapped|1 target controls covered

Compare ISO/IEC 17020:2012 Requirements for the operation of various types of bodies performing inspection with ISO/IEC 17025:2017 - General Requirements for Testing and Calibration

Coverage is not the same as your position

This page shows what ISO/IEC 17020:2012 Requirements for the operation of various types of bodies performing inspection overlaps with in general. Where your organisation actually stands, against the standard you are going for and the certifications you already hold, is a different question. Same graph and the same recorded refutations, scoped to you rather than to a pair.

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What is ISO/IEC 17020:2012 Requirements for the operation of various types of bodies performing inspection and who does it apply to?

ISO/IEC 17020:2012 Requirements for the operation of various types of bodies performing inspection is a compliance framework from International with 6 domains and 115 controls. ISO/IEC 17020:2012 sets what an inspection body must do to be accredited: impartiality and the Type A, B and C independence rules, competent and monitored inspectors, calibrated and traceable equipment, controlled methods and subcontracting, complete and traceable reports, complaints and appeals, and a management system. It is used by organisations to establish and maintain compliance with industry standards and regulatory requirements.

What does ISO/IEC 17020:2012 Requirements for the operation of various types of bodies performing inspection actually require?

ISO/IEC 17020:2012 Requirements for the operation of various types of bodies performing inspection has 115 controls organised across 6 domains. The largest domains are Clause 6: Resource requirements (personnel, facilities and equipment, subcontracting) – ISO/IEC 17020:2012 Requirements for the operation of various types of bodies performing inspection (32 controls), Clause 7: Process requirements (methods, items, records, reports, complaints and appeals) – ISO/IEC 17020:2012 Requirements for the operation of various types of bodies performing inspection (30 controls), Clause 8: Management system requirements (Option A and Option B) – ISO/IEC 17020:2012 Requirements for the operation of various types of bodies performing inspection (29 controls). Each control defines specific requirements that organisations must implement to achieve compliance.

If I already comply with another framework, how much of ISO/IEC 17020:2012 Requirements for the operation of various types of bodies performing inspection do I already cover?

ISO/IEC 17020:2012 Requirements for the operation of various types of bodies performing inspection maps to 4 other compliance frameworks. The top mapping partners are ISO/IEC 17025:2017 - General Requirements for Testing and Calibration (27% coverage), EU Statutory Audit Directive (Directive 2006/43/EC) (6% coverage), Sweden MCFFS 2026:12 Security Audit and Security Scanning Regulations (3% coverage). Use our comparison tool to explore control-level mappings between frameworks.

How do I implement ISO/IEC 17020:2012 Requirements for the operation of various types of bodies performing inspection?

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