Complete information
Information and evidence must be accurate, current, attributable and not misleading by omission.
Certification process
A controlled route from scope to continuing assurance
Every application follows a documented lifecycle. The depth and method of assessment are determined by the applicable scheme, subject and risk.
Certification lifecycle
The formal stages
- 01
Enquiry and eligibility
The proposed subject, scope, markets and assurance objective are reviewed against programme eligibility and independence requirements.
- 02
Application and agreement
The applicant, scope, applicable scheme, responsibilities, fees, confidentiality and certification terms are formally established.
- 03
Evidence readiness
Required documentation, data, samples, access and declarations are checked for completeness before technical assessment.
- 04
Assessment
Competent assessors examine conformity using document review, technical evaluation, interviews, testing or site activity as the scheme requires.
- 05
Findings and corrective action
Nonconformities and observations are recorded; accepted correction and evidence are reviewed within the authorised period.
- 06
Independent decision
An authorised person not responsible for the assessment reviews the record and determines grant, limitation, deferral or refusal.
- 07
Certification and publication
Approved scope, validity and conditions are issued as controlled records and published to the register where applicable.
- 08
Surveillance and renewal
Continuing conformity, changes and representation are reviewed throughout the cycle and before renewal.
Applicant responsibilities
Access, accuracy and notification
Assessment access
Relevant records, personnel, products, sites and samples must be made available as required by the agreed assessment plan.
Change notification
Material changes and events affecting conformity or representation must be reported without undue delay.
Controlled claims
Certification and Association marks may be represented only within the authorised scope, wording, status and period.
Timelines and fees
Proposals reflect scope and assessment need
A formal proposal identifies the applicable programme, scope assumptions, principal stages, information requirements, estimated timetable and fees. Timelines depend on readiness, complexity, assessor availability, testing and the resolution of findings.
Payment does not guarantee certification. Assessment and decision outcomes are determined solely against the applicable requirements and evidence.
Application
Prepare for an initial scope review
A concise and accurate initial submission enables the Association to identify the appropriate route and information requirements.