TS EN ISO/IEC 17029

TS EN ISO/IEC 17029 sets out general principles and requirements for bodies that perform validation and verification as conformity assessment activities. It focuses on the competence, consistent operation and impartiality of these bodies, providing a common framework for evaluating whether a claim is plausible for its intended use or whether a statement is accurately and truthfully presented.

How validation and verification differ

In general technical use, validation is concerned with showing that a claim, model, plan or method is reasonable and suitable for its intended future use. Verification, by contrast, confirms that an existing statement, data set or declaration is correctly and truthfully stated. This distinction matters because validation addresses fitness for purpose, while verification addresses correctness of what is being asserted. The standard can be used by bodies that provide either activity separately or both together.

Where the document fits in practice

The document is sector-neutral and can support programmes in fields such as environmental reporting, energy, greenhouse gases, financial or non-financial claims, and other areas where validation or verification is needed. Sector-specific rules, procedures and methods are additional to this standard, so TS EN ISO/IEC 17029 does not by itself define every technical requirement of a particular programme. It also distinguishes validation and verification from other conformity assessment results such as testing, inspection and certification.

The standard may also serve as a basis for accreditation, peer assessment and other forms of recognition. In practice, that makes it a cross-sector reference for the way bodies are expected to manage impartiality, competence and consistency when assessing claims or declarations.