Here at QCS we’re often asked during management system set up and preparation for a new ISO certification ‘how do I go about selecting a certification body?’
Well, it is first and foremost a commercial relationship and the choices of which Certification Body will come and do your ISO assessments and ultimately award your certificate is up to you. There are however several factors to consider.
What is a Certification body?
A Certification Body (CB) is an independent accredited organisation that is approved to audit management systems and award certificates if the system meets requirements of the ISO standards you work to.
Who gives the certification bodies the authority to issue Certificates?
CBs are usually independent businesses, who specialise in processes to audit and approve Standards. They are audited themselves to ensure they meet appropriate standards of audit competence and training, governance and customer service. In the UK, they are generally audited by the UK Accreditation Service (UKAS) against standards that ensure competency in their chosen sectors, and an ability to maintain impartiality and independence. There are some CBs that operate without UKAS approval and as such, they can still issue certificates but be careful, as some sectors do not recognise these certificates. This may be in part due to some unaccredited CBs providing consultation as well as certification, so in essence, marking their own homework.
The selection of a CB will depend on many factors, including brand, engagement, and cost. Certification bodies charge a fee on a day rate basis, and although they work from a common guide and consider number of sites, employees, complexity, standards etc to determine the duration of your audit, you will find differences between them.
By completing an initial questionnaire, they will seek the information they need to prepare a proposal for your business. Like most commercial service purchases, three quotes from three separate CB’s is a good starting point.
Who do I approach for quotes?
The UKAS web site supports selection of accredited certification bodies. You may already have some knowledge or an idea of the certification body that might be a good fit for your sector. QCS are unlikely to recommend individual CB’s but can assist in creating your short list.
I’m not happy with my CB, can I change?
Whilst its unusual, you can transfer once the certification process is underway or indeed after certification award. Just be mindful of contractual obligations, use the CB’s complaints process (an iso 17021 requirement which can be escalated to UKAS) in the first instance and bear in mind that any new certification body will need to see the report and the findings issued by their predecessor.
How do I find the CB with best fit for my organisation?
Firstly, visit the UKAS website for details of certification bodies and the standards they cover. If in doubt, please get in touch, QCS can offer guidance on your readiness for certification and on the steps in achieving it.
QCS International Ltd
For guidance and support in all things ISO please contact us. We love a challenge, we love thinking creatively and we delight in working with our clients in all things ISO related.
QCS International are a ISO9001,ISO14001,ISO45001,ISO13485 and ISO27001 CQI IRCA Approved Training Partner.
