For reference material producers and proficiency testing providers
Reference material producers and proficiency testing providers help ensure confidence in testing data. We support system development for ISO 17034 reference material producer accreditation and ISO/IEC 17043 proficiency testing provider accreditation, including applications to Taiwan Accreditation Foundation (TAF) or, subject to scope and cross-border acceptance policies, accreditation bodies in other regions.
01 Why accreditation matters
ISO 17034:2016 addresses the competence of reference material producers (RMPs). ISO/IEC 17043:2023 addresses the competence, impartiality, and consistent operation of proficiency testing providers (PTPs).
- In Taiwan, both services may apply to TAF.
- Accreditation confirms assessed production or proficiency-testing capability within the approved scope. International recognition depends on the accreditation body's ILAC/APAC signatory status and relevant scope.
- Customers and regulators may use accreditation as evidence of confidence in reference materials and proficiency testing results; actual acceptance depends on the destination market and customer requirements.
02 ISO 17034 reference material producer support
For RMPs establishing a management system and production capability aligned with ISO 17034:2016:
- Develop management-system documents and production procedures.
- Organize production, property-value evaluation, and applicable measurement-uncertainty assessments.
- Establish homogeneity and stability studies and prepare reference-material documentation and certified reference material certificates.
- Support internal audits, management reviews, and assessments by TAF or the selected accreditation body.
03 ISO/IEC 17043 proficiency testing provider support
For PTPs establishing a management system and operational capability aligned with ISO/IEC 17043:2023:
- Develop the management system and proficiency-testing procedures.
- Organize scheme design, statistical analysis, and evaluation of results.
- Establish sample preparation, homogeneity and stability assessment, packaging, and transport controls.
- Support internal audits, management reviews, and accreditation assessments.
04 Why work with us
- Coordinated advisory and application support.
- Familiarity with TAF requirements and practical assessment work.
- Clear progress tracking so your team can focus on its core work.
05 Who this is for
Reference material producers and proficiency testing providers applying for the first time or expanding, renewing, or maintaining an existing scope.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between ISO 17034 and ISO/IEC 17043?
17034 applies to reference material producers and focuses on production capability and quality. 17043 applies to proficiency testing providers and focuses on planning, delivery, and evaluation of proficiency testing activities.
Which accreditation body can we apply to?
In Taiwan, both services may apply to TAF. If seeking accreditation elsewhere, first confirm the body's service scope, mutual-recognition status, cross-border acceptance policy, and the destination market's acceptance requirements. This is an accreditation application, not a direct application to a local government.
How long does accreditation remain valid?
Validity follows the certificate and applicable scheme; it should not be assumed to be three years. TAF has announced a five-year certificate validity revision for reference material producer accreditation. Surveillance and renewal requirements still apply.
What should an applicant have in place?
The organization needs competent management and technical staff, suitable facilities and equipment, established procedures, and effective records for the requested scope.
Discuss your application
For an initial review, contact us and describe your organization type and intended accreditation scope.