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In the domain of medical devices manufacturing, compliance with established standards is not only a regulatory requirement but also a signifier of commitment to safety, reliability, and excellence. A key standard in this sector is ISO 13485, a global benchmark specifying requirements for a Quality Management System (QMS). An interesting aspect of ISO 13485 is its status as a harmonised standard. In this blog, we delve into ISO 13485, its importance, and its role as a harmonised standard in the European Union (EU).
Exploring ISO 13485
ISO 13485 is an internationally accepted standard that outlines the requirements for a QMS in the context of IVD medical devices. This standard applies to organisations engaged in various stages of the IVD medical device lifecycle, from design and manufacturing to installation and after-sales service. It emphasises consistent design, development, production, installation, and delivery of IVD medical devices deemed safe for their intended purpose.
ISO 13485 as a Harmonised Standard
A harmonised standard in the EU is a standard that has been adopted by one of the European standardisation organisations, like the European Committee for Standardization (CEN), upon the request of the European Commission to comply with EU Directives or Regulations. Once cited in the Official Journal of the European Union (OJEU), compliance with a harmonised standard provides a presumption of conformity with the corresponding requirements of the harmonisation legislation.
Why ISO 13485 Matters
ISO 13485 is often the first stepping stone towards global regulatory compliance. It assures stakeholders, healthcare professionals, and regulators that an IVD medical device has been manufactured under a well-managed and controlled QMS.
Moreover, ISO 13485 is a prerequisite for many distributors, healthcare facilities, and public health authorities. For manufacturers aiming to distribute their products globally, securing ISO 13485 certification is almost indispensable.
Achieving and Maintaining ISO 13485 Compliance
Achieving ISO 13485 compliance involves the implementation of a QMS centered around continuous improvement and customer satisfaction. Key areas include management responsibility, resource management, product realization, and measurement, analysis, and improvement. Maintaining ISO 13485 certification requires regular internal audits and third-party audits conducted by an external certification body.
In a dynamic industry where patient safety and product reliability are of utmost importance, ISO 13485 provides a robust framework for the production of IVD medical devices. As a harmonised standard under the EU’s IVDR, it plays an even more critical role, making compliance a strategic move for manufacturers to access the European market. Achieving ISO 13485 certification showcases a manufacturer’s commitment to quality, fostering trust with end-users, healthcare professionals, and regulatory bodies.
If you’re finding it hard to understand ISO 13485, don’t worry – QRcompliance is ready to assist. You can visit our website at www.qrcompliance.nl. Let QRcompliance navigate you through the complexities of ISO 13485.