FAQ6

Clause 4.1.6 uses the expression “separate and identifiable part of an organisation involved in certain activities” to describe inspection bodies of independence type B and the expression “identifiable but not necessarily separate part of an organisation involved certain activities” to describe inspection bodies of independence type C. What is the difference between being an identifiable part and being a separate part within an organization? How can this be proved or recognized?

STANDARD: ISO/IEC 17020  ·  CLAUSE: 4.1.6  ·  TOPIC: Assigning independence categories  

Answer:

For an inspection body to demonstrate that it is an identifiable and separate part of an organisation, the inspection body must be a separate section, department, division etc., within that organisation and the inspection staff and management must work in that separate part of the organisation. In case of a Type C inspection body, it is not a requirement for the inspection body to be a separate section, department, division of the organisation but it is a requirement that all those who are involved in inspection are identified by name so that it is quite clear who is involved in inspection activities. The documented organisation structure, job descriptions and records of personnel are some of the ways in which the inspection body can demonstrate that the inspection body is separate and /or identifiable.