TS EN ISO/IEC 17000

TS EN ISO/IEC 17000 is a core vocabulary standard for conformity assessment, bringing together the general terms, definitions, and principles used in this field. It also provides a common conceptual framework for accreditation of conformity assessment bodies and for using conformity assessment to facilitate trade. Rather than prescribing sector-specific practices, it establishes a shared language that can be applied consistently across many technical domains.

How conformity assessment is organised as a concept

In general technical usage, conformity assessment is the set of activities used to show that a product, service, process, system, person, or organization meets specified requirements. Those activities may take the form of testing, inspection, verification, certification, and registration, depending on the object being assessed and the confidence needed. Clear definitions matter because they help distinguish what a given assessment result actually means and how far it can be relied on.

The common language provided by this standard

This document focuses on terminology connected with conformity assessment bodies, accreditation, and the role of conformity assessment in trade facilitation. Annex A provides general principles of conformity assessment and a description of the functional approach. The standard also notes interaction with management systems, metrology, standardization, and statistics, which reflects the multidisciplinary nature of conformity assessment in practice. It does not define the boundaries of conformity assessment; instead, it concentrates on consistent use of the underlying concepts and terms.

• Provides a shared reference for terminology used in conformity assessment, including accreditation.
• Addresses the use of conformity assessment in facilitating trade.
• Explains the general principles and functional approach in Annex A.
• Recognizes links with management systems, metrology, standardization, and statistics.