For certification bodies
Build trust into
every certificate.
IASCB accreditation helps certification bodies demonstrate competence, impartiality and consistency across a defined scope of certification activity.
The IASCB model
Independence
that adds value.
IASCB assesses the certification body—not the organisations that the body certifies. Our accreditation decisions are based on evidence of competence, impartiality, reliable processes and effective control of certification activities.
Accreditation is limited to the approved scope. A certification body may only present an activity as IASCB-accredited when it is covered by its current scope and certificate.
What we assess
Ready for
recognition.
Applicants should be able to show that their people, processes and decisions work together consistently.
Competence & resources
Qualified personnel, suitable technical resources and a defined ability to deliver the requested certification activities.
Impartiality & confidentiality
Controls that protect independence, manage conflicts and safeguard client and certification information.
Certification process
Documented arrangements for application, audit, review, decision, surveillance, recertification, complaints and appeals.
Management system
Governance, records, internal review and continual improvement that support consistent operations.
Primary requirements
Start with the
right framework.
Detailed guidance
Open a topic
to go deeper.
Use the sections below as a practical orientation before contacting IASCB or preparing an application.
01Define your accreditation scope+
Your scope should describe exactly what the certification body is competent and resourced to certify. Identify the applicable standard or scheme, sectors, technical areas, locations and certification activities requested.
- Separate management-system certification from certification of persons.
- Identify any sector-specific competence requirements.
- Make sure the scope matches your actual people, methods and resources.
- Use the current IASCB register and scope wording as a reference for clear public claims.
02Build a competent certification function+
Certification bodies need a reliable method for determining competence and assigning people to work. This includes auditors, technical experts, reviewers and independent certification decision-makers.
- Define competence criteria for each technical area and role.
- Maintain qualification, training, experience and monitoring records.
- Provide enough personnel and infrastructure for the requested scope.
- Review competence regularly and act on performance information.
03Protect impartiality and confidentiality+
Impartiality is a continuing responsibility. Your organisation must identify threats created by ownership, commercial pressure, consultancy, personal relationships or the way work is assigned and rewarded.
- Maintain a documented impartiality risk process.
- Control consultancy and other conflicts before certification work begins.
- Protect client information, examination information and certification records.
- Ensure complaints and appeals are handled by people independent of the original activity.
04Control the certification decision+
The certification decision must be based on sufficient, traceable evidence and must be made independently of the audit or assessment activity. The process should also explain what happens when requirements are not met.
- Control application review, audit planning, reporting and technical review.
- Define how nonconformities, corrections and corrective action are evaluated.
- Control initial certification, surveillance, recertification, transfers and special audits.
- Control suspension, withdrawal, reduction and restoration of certification.
05Maintain accreditation after the decision+
Accreditation is maintained through continuing conformity, not a one-time assessment. Accredited bodies must keep their arrangements effective and remain transparent about their current status.
- Notify IASCB about significant changes that may affect competence or impartiality.
- Cooperate with surveillance, reassessment and special assessment activities.
- Use the IASCB name and accreditation mark only within the approved scope.
- Keep public certification claims accurate, current and verifiable.