The conception and initial years of a quality management system based on ISO/IEC 17025: an action research

This work presents research focused on obtaining and maintaining the ISO/IEC 17025 recognition in a Brazilian environmental analysis laboratory that acts as an environmental consultancy, providing services for the biological treatment of effluents. Three research cycles were conducted, covering the recognition preparation, surveillance period, and first reassessment preparation. The importance of considering both the technical and managerial aspects of this process is highlighted. In addition, it is fundamental to involve all employees in the process and reinforce the value of audits as an instrument for evaluating and improving the entire system. Despite the importance of the consultancy contracted to assist in the design of the management system, only with its effective use was it possible to improve the laboratory’s needs. Thus, the contribution of all collaborators to this process is fundamental. Despite the importance of “metrological networks” for encouraging a quality culture and accreditation in Brazil, greater rigor may be needed regarding the demand for systematic evidence of sustainable compliance and maturity of the management system. The recognition and accreditation challenges are the first, as the need to review and improve the Quality Management System is recurrent, whether due to the greater maturity of the laboratory or the identification of new opportunities.