ISO 17020 Explained: Accreditation of Inspection Bodies in KSA
Introduction: Why Inspection Is Important in Saudi Arabia's Growing Economy
Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 industrial transformation places strong emphasis on safety, reliability, and technical excellence across major sectors — oil and gas, construction, manufacturing, and transport.
At the heart of this progress lies one critical question:
How can Saudi organizations make their inspections credible and trusted both locally and globally?
That’s where ISO/IEC 17020 accreditation comes in.
This international standard defines the competence requirements for inspection bodies, ensuring that inspection outcomes are consistent, impartial, and reliable.
Whether you operate a third-party inspection company, an engineering testing lab, or a government regulatory agency, ISO 17020 accreditation in KSA represents trust, credibility, and compliance in every inspection you perform.
What Is ISO/IEC 17020?
ISO/IEC 17020:2012 is a global standard developed jointly by ISO and the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC).
It specifies the competence, impartiality, and consistent operation of organizations that perform inspections.
Unlike ISO 9001, which focuses on overall quality management, ISO 17020 zeroes in on technical capability and impartiality — ensuring that inspection results are based on evidence, not commercial bias or external influence.
Request A Free Quote
Why Accreditation to ISO 17020 Matters for Saudi Businesses
1. Establishes Trust and Credibility
ISO 17020 accreditation confirms your inspection body meets international standards of independence, integrity, and competence.
In Saudi Arabia’s high-stakes sectors, such as infrastructure and energy, this accreditation enhances market reputation and contract eligibility.
2. Supports Vision 2030 and Regulatory Compliance
Saudi Vision 2030 aims to strengthen national quality infrastructure.
Accredited inspection bodies assist regulatory authorities like SASO (Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization) and SFDA (Saudi Food and Drug Authority) in maintaining safety and compliance.
3. Enables Market Access
Global and local clients prefer ISO 17020-accredited agencies.
This assurance simplifies cross-border business, boosts contract eligibility, and enhances recognition by government and international partners.
4. Reduces Risk and Liability
Technically competent inspection minimizes the chances of product failures and accidents.
It also reduces legal risks by showing adherence to international protocols and transparency in operations.
5. Strengthens Internal Systems
ISO 17020 promotes structured management systems, risk-based decision-making, and continual improvement — ensuring greater accuracy, efficiency, and reduced rework.
Types of Inspection Bodies Under ISO 17020
Type | Description | Typical Example |
Type A | Fully independent third-party inspection bodies | Independent inspection agencies or regulators |
Type B | Independent inspection departments within a parent company | Internal inspection units for parent companies |
Type C | Perform both internal and external inspections under impartiality controls | Engineering firms inspecting internal & external projects |
All types must demonstrate impartiality, competence, and transparency to achieve ISO 17020 accreditation.
Key Requirements of ISO 17020 Accreditation
To earn ISO 17020 accreditation in Saudi Arabia, an inspection body must meet several major requirements:
- Impartiality and Independence – Avoid conflicts of interest.
- Competent Personnel – Qualified and technically trained inspectors.
- Validated Inspection Methods – Documented and traceable inspection procedures.
- Equipment Calibration – Regularly calibrated and maintained tools.
- Management System – Comprehensive documentation, audits, and corrective action plans.
- Reporting and Recordkeeping – Transparent and accurate inspection documentation.
How ISO 17020 Accreditation Works in Saudi Arabia
In Saudi Arabia, accreditation is granted by the Saudi Accreditation Center (SAC) — the official national authority for inspection, testing, and certification bodies.
The Accreditation Process:
- Application Submission – Inspection body submits documentation to SAC.
- Document Review – SAC evaluators verify compliance with ISO 17020.
- On-Site Assessment – Auditors assess the facility’s competence and independence.
- Addressing Nonconformities – Any identified issues must be resolved.
- Final Accreditation – SAC grants ISO 17020 accreditation, valid for up to 3 years.
Real Example: Engineering Inspection Firm in Riyadh
A mechanical inspection company in Riyadh, offering pressure vessel and pipeline inspection, applied for ISO 17020 accreditation to qualify for contracts with major petrochemical companies.
After adopting risk-based inspection practices, training staff, and aligning procedures with ISO 17020, the firm earned SAC accreditation.
Result? It gained long-term contracts, reduced client audits, and became a trusted name in Saudi Arabia’s oil and gas sector.
Benefits of ISO 17020 Accreditation at a Glance
- Builds market credibility and customer confidence
- Ensures compliance with Saudi and global standards
- Improves bidding opportunities and partnerships
- Demonstrates proven technical competence
- Increases operational consistency and reliability
- Minimizes risks and liabilities
Why Choose Maxicert for ISO 17020 Accreditation in KSA
Maxicert helps inspection bodies across Saudi Arabia achieve ISO 17020 accreditation efficiently and affordably.
Our services include:
- Gap analysis and readiness evaluation
- Documentation and system implementation
- Staff and inspector training programs
- Internal audits and corrective support
- Coordination with the Saudi Accreditation Center (SAC)
With a track record of successful GCC-wide accreditations, Maxicert ensures your organization not only gains compliance but also develops a strong culture of technical excellence.
Conclusion
In today’s competitive Saudi marketplace, inspection credibility defines success.
ISO 17020 accreditation assures clients and regulators that your inspection processes are technically sound, impartial, and internationally recognized.
With Maxicert as your partner, you gain expert guidance, structured methodology, and confidence in achieving accreditation—quickly and seamlessly.
Investing in ISO 17020 means more than compliance; it means earning trust, building confidence, and contributing to Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goal of safer, high-quality industries.
Get In Touch
Get In Touch
Get In Touch
Need A Free Estimate?
Get a free consultation and Checklist to get certified for ISO , HALAL, CE Mark Certification.
FAQ
Who issues ISO 17020 accreditation in Saudi Arabia?
The Saudi Accreditation Center (SAC) is the official authority responsible for granting ISO 17020 accreditation.
How long does the accreditation process take?
Typically 4–6 months, depending on your organization’s system readiness and documentation quality.
Which industries require ISO 17020 accreditation?
Key sectors include oil and gas, construction, manufacturing, transport, and environmental testing.
Does Maxicert help prepare for SAC accreditation?
Yes. Maxicert offers complete consultancy, documentation, training, and audit support to ensure your successful ISO 17020 accreditation.