New version of the accreditation standard ISO 17020 for inspection bodies
1st June 2026
The third edition of the ISO/IEC 17020 standard came into effect in March 2026, replacing the second edition from 2012.

The standard outlines requirements for the conduct of conformity assessment by inspection bodies. The standard is currently in English, though there are plans to translate it into Icelandic. The main changes are as follows:
Inspection bodies are now classified into two categories regarding impartiality, type A and non-type A (previously types A, B, and C).
Definitions have been added for "item" (the object being inspected) and "client" (the party requesting the inspection).
A new clause addresses data and information management, as well as measures for identifying and assessing risks and opportunities.
Common elements from the CASCO standards (the ISO committee on conformity assessment) have been incorporated.
A risk-assessment approach underpins this version.
There is greater flexibility compared to the previous version regarding requirements for processes, procedures, documented information, and the responsibilities of the inspection body (and its parent company, where applicable).
Starting in October 2026, ISAC will begin conducting assessments based on this new version of the standard. All new accreditations will follow the latest version, followed by the transition of bodies that are already accredited.
The standard can be purchased from Staðlaráð Íslands (Icelandic Standards Organization).