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An inspection body evaluated to be in compliance with ISO/IEC 17020 (General criteria for the operation of various types bodies performing inspection) and National Standard Act and formally recognized to have competence in specific area of its operation by KOLAS.

 
  There are different standards, technical regulation, certification procedures,
   inspection system between trading nations.
   Such differences have become problematic trade barrier in an increasingly
   global economy.
   
WTO/TBT Agreement (1995. 1. 1)
WTO/TBT agreements were conceived to harmonize or unify different standards,
   technical regulation, certification procedures and inspection systems of each
   nation in hopes of eliminating trade barriers. Korea Laboratory & Accreditation
   System was established as a part of this effort.
 
 

Establishment of ISO/IEC 17020 in 1999
Utilization of ISO/IEC 17020 as a means of technical barrier by developed nations
Establishment of KSA 17020 in 2000
KOLAS begins accreditation scheme for inspection bodies from July 2000
Agency of Technology and Standards (KOLAS Secretariat) in charge of accrediting
   inspection bodies

 
 

Elimination of technical trade barrier concerning inspection of products.
Public inspection service according to international standard.
Acquisition of international public confidence in inspection results.
Trustworthiness of inspection reports.
Prevention of product refusal and re-inspection due to non-acceptance of QMS/
   EMS/product certificates, test, calibration and test results of exporting country