FAQ 55

In the scope of ISO/IEC 17020 (2012), it mentions “This International Standard contains requirements for the competence of bodies performing inspection and for the impartiality and consistency of their inspection activities.”

So, What does “consistency of their inspection activities” mean? Does  any standardised definition of consistency exist?

STANDARD: ISO/IEC 17020  ·  CLAUSE:   ·  TOPIC: Inspection Activity

Answer:

The term consistency is used as the generally known concept of repeatability and reproducibility although it is not specifically defined in the standard.
Oxford Dictionary defines consistent as an adjective:
1. acting or done in the same way over time, especially so as to be fair or accurate. “the parents are being consistent and firm in their reactions”.
(of an argument or set of ideas) not containing any logical contradictions. “a consistent explanation”.
 
In relation to ISO/IEC 17020 ‘consistency’ relates to ensuring reproducible outcomes from inspection activities, see also ILAC  P15 6.1.8 n1