# Management System According to ISO/IEC 17025: Method Validation
## 4 Discussion and Conclusions  
Documenting and validating a non-standard method can present one of the most challenging tasks for testing and calibration laboratories seeking ISO/IEC 17025:2017 [1] accreditation. Many laboratories primarily work with standard methods, thereby focusing on verifying their test methods rather than validating them. Consequently, this process necessitates the development of a statistical knowledge base that laboratories may not have previously established, enabling them to achieve the required technical reliability. The method chosen for validating the results holds paramount importance, carrying the highest level of credibility during accreditation audits, with ANOVA being the most reliable method at present. However, the primary application benefits of the developed methodology are rooted in the Quality Infrastructure Law [14]. Upon achieving accreditation for any method, laboratories transition into a Conformity Assessment Body. As defined, a Conformity Assessment Body is an organization accredited by an accreditation entity or, where applicable, by the Standardization Authority. In the case of Official Mexican Standards, international standards referenced therein, or other legal provisions, if accreditation is conducted by an accreditation entity, the body must be approved by the competent Standardization Authority to carry out the conformity assessment. As stipulated in Article 54 of the aforementioned law [14], only laboratories accredited by an accreditation entity are authorized to operate as Conformity Assessment Bodies. This provision establishes a national precedent in the geotechnical sub-branch of construction. The method presented in this paper stands as the sole accreditation as an OEC (Organismo Evaluador de la Conformidad) in Mexico at the time of publication. This information can be verified in the catalog of accredited members of the EMA, accessible at [[https://www.ema.org.mx/portal_v3/](https://www.ema.org.mx/portal_v3/)]([https://www.ema.org.mx/portal_v3/](https://www.ema.org.mx/portal_v3/)) accessed on 28 November 2023. It is important to emphasize that the reliability of results obtained by any other company using the proposed method will be subject to verification by the accreditation entity. Without such verification, the validation and reliability of the presented results will not be recognized, in accordance with the Quality Infrastructure Law [14]. Future research in the field of rock engineering could delve into the implementation of ISO 17025 accreditation standards for testing laboratories engaged in assessing rock support systems. Investigating the impact of accreditation on the reliability and traceability of test results could yield valuable insights into enhancing quality assurance processes within rock engineering practices. An area of potential research interest lies in the development of standardized testing protocols for evaluating the performance of rock bolts, cables, and dowels, adhering to ISO 17025 requirements. Establishing consistent testing procedures and measurement criteria can ensure the accuracy and comparability of test results across various laboratories. This effort ultimately aims to enhance the credibility and acceptance of rock support technologies within the industry. Exploring the integration of quality management systems rooted in ISO 17025 principles into the design and execution of rock support projects presents a promising area for future research. Investigating the potential benefits of adopting a systematic approach to quality assurance and continuous improvement in rock engineering practices could lead to improved safety, efficiency, and alignment with international standards. Furthermore, future research endeavors could concentrate on developing training programs and competency assessments tailored to personnel engaged in testing and installing rock support systems, in accordance with ISO 17025 accreditation standards.