2026 Revision of ISO/IEC 17020: What Changes Are Coming and How ANAB Is Preparing Inspection Bodies
The ongoing revision of ISO/IEC 17020, Conformity assessment – Requirements for bodies performing inspection, remains in development as of February 2026. While not yet officially published, its release is approaching.
For inspection bodies, this revision represents a significant update from the 2012 edition. The forthcoming standard introduces structural, conceptual, and harmonization changes that will affect how requirements are interpreted and implemented across inspection programs.
ANAB subject matter experts have been closely monitoring the revision through ISO CASCO activities and are preparing guidance and training to support inspection bodies through the transition once the standard is released.
Six Key Areas of Change in ISO/IEC 17020
Although the final published text will determine exact wording, several major themes have emerged during the revision process of ISO/IEC 17020.
Changes to the Type A, B, and C Model
The familiar independence classification model is being significantly revised. Inspection bodies that have historically operated under the Type A, B, or C framework should expect notable changes in how independence and organizational relationships are described and evaluated.
New Title Reflects Broader Applicability
The revised ISO/IEC 17020 standard will be titled: “Requirements for Bodies Performing Inspections.” This updated title reflects the wide range of inspection activities covered by the standard and aligns more closely with other standards in the ISO/IEC 17000 series.
Updates to Impartiality and Confidentiality Requirements
The revised edition strengthens and clarifies expectations related to identifying, managing, and documenting risks to impartiality and confidentiality. These foundational principles remain central, with requirements presented in a more explicit and structured manner.
Revisions to Appeals and Complaints
Requirements addressing appeals and complaints are being modified to improve clarity, consistency, and alignment with other conformity assessment standards.
Evolving Management System Requirements
The management system section of the standard is undergoing change through the introduction of updated common elements used across the ISO/IEC 17000 series. These changes support consistency across accreditation programs and streamline implementation for organizations holding multiple accreditations.
Alignment with the ISO/IEC 17000 Series
A key objective of the revision is increased harmonization. New common elements are being introduced to align ISO/IEC 17020 with other conformity assessment standards such as ISO/IEC 17025 and ISO/IEC 17065. This alignment promotes consistency in structure, terminology, and expectations across accreditation programs.
What ISO/IEC 17020 Changes Mean for Inspection Bodies
The revised ISO/IEC 17020 standard will require inspection bodies to review existing policies, procedures, and management systems. Particular attention will be needed for areas related to independence classification, impartiality, confidentiality, and complaints handling. Staff awareness and training will also play an important role in understanding revised concepts and terminology.
ANAB Training to Support the ISO/IEC 17020 Transition
ANAB is developing updated training programs to help inspection bodies understand and apply the revised requirements once the revised edition of ISO/IEC 17020 is published.
Self-Paced Course
A self-paced course is in development that will provide an overview of the key differences between the 2012 and 2026 editions of ISO/IEC 17020 and highlight areas requiring focused attention during transition.
You can preorder this self-paced training course here: Changes From the 2012 to 2026 Version of 17020: “Requirements for Bodies Performing Inspections” What You Need to Know – Self-paced
Instructor-Led Course
An instructor-led course is also in development that will offer a detailed clause-by-clause review of the revised ISO/IEC 17020 standard, including the rationale behind the changes and how they will be applied during accreditation assessments.
This training course soon will be available for registration here: The 17020:2026 Standard – “Requirements for Bodies Performing Inspections” Full Details / Changes / Explanation
Both courses are designed to provide practical insight and support effective implementation for bodies performing inspections.
ANAB’s Ongoing Role in Standards Development
ANAB continues to engage with international standards development activities and industry experts throughout the revision process. This involvement supports the development of clear guidance, consistent interpretations, and effective transition support for accredited inspection bodies.
Looking Ahead for Inspection Bodies
Following publication of the revised ISO/IEC 17020, ANAB will provide transition guidance, training availability, and information on accreditation timelines. Ongoing communications will support inspection bodies as they prepare for and implement the updated requirements.
