Accreditation and Monitoring Procedure
Accreditation is the official process of confirming an organization’s compliance with established criteria and standards in the field of conformity assessment, certification, laboratory testing, and other regulated sectors. It serves as proof of an organization’s competence and compliance with international and national requirements.
The accreditation process consists of several key stages, including application submission, document analysis, audit, decision-making, and subsequent monitoring of the accredited organization’s activities.
Stages of Accreditation
Accreditation follows a structured procedure that includes the following steps:
1. Submission of an Accreditation Application
An organization seeking accreditation must submit an application to the relevant accreditation body. The application should include:
- The organization’s name and registration details.
- The scope of accreditation (industry, standards, methodologies).
- Information on personnel qualifications and technical capabilities.
- Details of the quality management system.
A set of supporting documents confirming compliance with accreditation requirements must accompany the application.
2. Document Analysis
At this stage, the accreditation body reviews the submitted documents to ensure compliance with standards. The key focus areas include:
- Quality management policies and procedures.
- Personnel competence and experience.
- Testing, certification, or conformity assessment methodologies and protocols.
- Compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.
If deficiencies are found in the documentation, the organization receives recommendations for corrective actions.
3. Conducting the Audit
Once the documentation is approved, the accreditation body conducts an on-site audit of the organization. The audit process evaluates:
- Actual compliance with the declared quality management system.
- Practical implementation of documented procedures.
- Compliance with accreditation standards.
- Personnel qualifications, training, and expertise.
- The state of technical infrastructure and the adequacy of equipment for accreditation requirements.
Following the audit, a report is generated highlighting any non-conformities and necessary corrective actions.
4. Corrective Actions for Non-Conformities
If any violations or deviations from standards are identified during the audit, the organization is given a deadline to implement corrective measures. After the necessary adjustments are made, the accreditation body may conduct a follow-up audit or request additional documentation to confirm compliance.
5. Decision on Accreditation
Once all evaluations are complete and any non-conformities are addressed, the accreditation body makes a final decision on granting accreditation. If the outcome is positive, the organization receives an accreditation certificate, confirming its competence in the declared field.
If the organization fails to meet the requirements, accreditation may be denied, or a limited timeframe may be provided for re-evaluation.
Monitoring of an Accredited Organization
After obtaining accreditation, the organization must maintain compliance with established requirements and undergo regular assessments. The monitoring process includes the following elements:
1. Conducting Surveillance Audits
Periodic audits are carried out to verify:
- Continued compliance with the standards under which accreditation was granted.
- Updates to methodologies and documentation in line with regulatory changes.
- Ongoing personnel competence and training.
- The effectiveness of the quality management system.
If non-conformities are identified during an audit, the organization must rectify them within a specified timeframe.
2. Internal Control by the Accredited Organization
Accredited organizations are required to conduct internal audits, identify potential risks, and continuously improve their quality management system.
3. Re-Accreditation
At the end of the accreditation validity period, the organization must undergo a re-evaluation process. This includes updating documentation, confirming compliance, and passing another audit.
Accreditation is a comprehensive process that confirms an organization’s compliance with international standards. It involves application submission, document review, auditing, corrective action implementation, and decision-making. Once accredited, organizations must undergo regular monitoring to ensure continued compliance and maintain their accreditation status.
Adhering to all accreditation stages and continuously improving quality management systems enables organizations to uphold their status, build client trust, and achieve long-term success in the industry.