Accreditation

What is accreditation?

It is the formal recognition by an independent body, generally known as an accreditation body, that a certification body is capable of carrying out certification. Accreditation adds another level of confidence, as “accredited” means the certification body has been independently checked to make sure it operates according to international standards. (Source: International Organization for Standardization)

What are the components of accreditation?

• Certification
• Testing and calibration
• Inspection

What is certification?

The formal procedure by which an accredited or authorized person or agency assesses and verifies (and attests in writing by issuing a certificate) the attributes, characteristics, quality, qualification, or status of individuals or organizations, goods or services, procedures or processes, or events or situations, in accordance with established requirements or standards. (Source: BusinessDictionary.com)

What is testing and calibration?

The determination of one or more characteristics of a given product, process, or service according to a specified procedure. (Source: Metrology in Short)

What is inspection?

The critical appraisal involving examination, measurement, testing, gauging, and comparison of materials or items. An inspection determines if the material or item is in proper quantity and condition, and if it conforms to the applicable or specified requirements. (Source: BusinessDictionary.com).

What are the benefits of accreditation?

Accreditation acknowledges that an organization—such as a testing and calibration laboratory or a certification body—has a level of organizational competence that is comparable to other similar organizations that are accredited by the same accrediting body. Accreditation provides customers and regulatory authorities the added confidence in the certificates and reports issued by these organizations.

For a company, using an accredited organization boosts the company’s image and status with its customers and stakeholders. It assures these publics that the company’s products and services have been tested and certified by a reliable organization.

For regulators, the accreditation of organization by an independent third party gives them greater confidence and trust in the services provided by the organization.