The process for gaining ISO certification is straightforward and follows a consistent approach for all management systems standards, including ISO 9001, ISO 14001, OHSAS 18001 and ISO 27001.
THREE STEPS TO CERTIFICATION
Application
To start the process, the first step is completing the CERTIFICATION APPLICATION QUESTIONNAIRE. This form provides all the information required about your business so we can determine the scope of certification and calculate the audit timing and coverage.
Assessment
The Assessment stage is a straight forward process which consists of two mandatory visits that form the Initial Certification Audit. The Stage 1 and Stage 2 audits that form this process are designed to cover both the preparedness and implementation of your management system.
Certification
A Certificate is issued after the positive completion of the Initial Audit process. Certification is maintained through a programme of annual or six monthly surveillance audits and then a three yearly recertification audit, as shown below.
The Assessment Process
The purpose of this audit is to confirm that your organisation is ready for assessment.
The auditor will:
- confirms that the management system meets the requirement of the Standard
- confirm its implementation status
- confirm the scope of certification
- check legislative compliance
- produce a report that identifies any potential non-compliance or opportunities for improvement and agree a corrective action plan if required.
The purpose of this audit is to ensure that the management system fully conforms to the requirements of the chosen Standard in practice.
The auditor will:
- undertake simple audits of the processes and activities defined in the scope of certification
- document how the system complies with the Standard by using objective evidence
- report any non-compliance(s) or opportunities for improvement
- produce a surveillance plan and agree a date for the first annual surveillance visit
Successful completion of the Initial Assessment process, with no findings or non-conformities, will result in the issuance of a Certificate, valid for three years, subject to annual surveillance.
Note:
If the assessor identifies any major non-conformances, certification cannot be issued until correction and corrective action is taken and verified. Accreditation requirements stipulate that if this is not completed within six months, then certification cannot be recommended without a further Stage 2 assessment.
Surveillance audits are undertaken periodically to ensure that compliance to the chosen Standard is maintained throughout the three-year certification cycle.
The frequency and duration of surveillance is dependent on factors including:
- size and structure of the organisation
- complexity and risk of activities
- number of management system standards included in the scope of certification
The Surveillance Cycle
Download the PQAL Terms and Conditions here, CLIENT TERMS AND CONDITIONS