What does ISO/IEC 17025 require when a laboratory receives an item for test or calibration?

ISO/IEC 17025 is a standard that outlines the requirements for competence and the consistent operation of laboratories. When a laboratory receives an item for test or calibration, it is essential to maintain precise records of the item’s status. Therefore, one of the core requirements is to record any abnormalities or deviations from normal or specified conditions. This documentation ensures that there is a transparent and traceable process regarding the item's state prior to testing or calibration.

Recording abnormalities is critical for a few reasons. Firstly, it helps in understanding whether any issues observed are due to the item itself or could potentially affect the accuracy of the testing process. Secondly, it provides a reference for both the laboratory and the customer regarding the condition of the item upon receipt, which is especially important in the event of any disputes or concerns post-evaluation.

The other choices describe actions that are not aligned with the practices outlined in ISO/IEC 17025. Notifying the customer immediately may not always be necessary, as the lab must first assess and document the condition before communicating with the customer. Calibrating the item without any documentation would lead to a lack of traceability and could endanger the reliability of the test results. Similarly, discarding items that show abnormalities would be contrary to the