Accreditation

ABIS

The Accreditation process implemented by ABIS (Accreditation Board for International Standards) is designed to accommodate organizations of all types and sizes engaged in a diverse array of activities.

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What is Accreditation?

Accreditation is a formal recognition by an accreditation body that a conformity assessment body (CABs), such as a testing laboratory, inspection body, certification body, or proficiency testing provider, has demonstrated competence to carry out specific tasks in accordance with international standards and criteria. In essence, accreditation assures customers, regulators, and other stakeholders that the CAB operates competently and impartially, providing reliable and trustworthy results or services. Being accredited ensures consistency, reliability, and confidence in the products and services delivered by accredited CABs.

Accreditation Procedure

The Accreditation Board for International Standards (ABIS) provides a structured procedure for accrediting Conformity Assessment Bodies (CABs). Accreditation process involves rigorous evaluation against international standards (ISO/IEC 17025, ISO/IEC 17021, ISO/IEC 17024 etc, and criteria to ensure that CABs demonstrate competence and impartiality in their operations. ABIS assesses CABs across various fields, including testing laboratories, inspection bodies, certification bodies, and proficiency testing providers. Accreditation by ABIS signifies that a CAB has met stringent requirements and quality of the conformity assessment services provided.

ABIS follows the accreditation procedure in 4 stages:

Application Phase

Assessment Phase

Accreditation Phase

Surveillance Phase

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1. Application Process:

  • Organizations interested in accreditation submit an application to ABIS.
  • The application typically includes detailed information about the organization, its scope of activities, and relevant documentation.
  • ABIS reviews the application to ensure it meets initial eligibility requirements.

2. Assessment Phase:

  • Once the application is accepted, ABIS conducts an assessment of the conformity assessment body (CAB).
  • This assessment involves a thorough evaluation of the CAB's management system, technical competence, and operational procedures.
  • ABIS assessors may conduct online audit or on-site visits to verify compliance with international standards and criteria.

3. Accreditation Phase:

  • If the CAB successfully meets all requirements during the assessment phase, ABIS grants accreditation.
  • Accreditation is formalized through the issuance of a certificate that specifies the scope of accreditation (i.e., the types of activities and services covered).
  • The accreditation certificate demonstrates that the CAB operates competently and impartially according to international standards.

4. Surveillance Phase:

  • After accreditation is granted, ABIS conducts regular surveillance assessments.
  • Surveillance assessments ensure that the accredited CAB continues to comply with accreditation requirements.
  • These assessments may include periodic online/on-site visits and reviews of the CAB's performance and management systems.

Benefits of getting Accredited

Obtaining accreditation offers significant benefits to organizations, particularly Conformity Assessment Bodies (CABs). Accreditation enhances credibility by demonstrating compliance with rigorous international standards and criteria. It provides global recognition, facilitating acceptance of test results, inspection reports, and certifications across borders. Accredited CABs gain a competitive benefit, as accreditation signifies operational excellence, improved efficiency, and adherence to best practices. Accreditation also supports legal and regulatory compliance, encourages continuous improvement, and enhances overall organizational performance

For Businesses:

  • Accreditation demonstrates that a business operates according to recognized standards and practices, enhances credibility with customers, partners, and stakeholders, fostering trust in the business's products or services.
  • Accredited businesses often find it easier to enter new markets, both domestic and international.
  • Accreditation helps businesses meet regulatory requirements more effectively.
  • The accreditation process encourages businesses to implement efficient management systems and processes
  • Accreditation signifies a commitment to quality and reliability, which leads to increased customer satisfaction
  • Accredited businesses are better equipped to manage risks associated with quality, safety, and compliance

For Laboratory and Calibration Bodies

  • Accreditation demonstrates compliance with international standards, enhancing trust in test results and calibration certificates.
  • Accreditation facilitates acceptance of services internationally, expanding market opportunities.
  • Helps meet regulatory requirements, ensuring adherence to industry standards and regulations.
  • Promotes continuous improvement in technical competence, leading to more accurate and reliable testing and calibration services
  • Streamlines processes and enhances organizational effectiveness through structured quality management systems.
  • Provides assurance to clients and stakeholders regarding the quality and reliability of services offered.

What are Accreditation Bodies

Accreditation bodies are organizations responsible for evaluating and formally recognizing the competence and integrity of conformity assessment bodies (CABs). These CABs include testing laboratories, inspection bodies, certification bodies, and proficiency testing providers. Accreditation bodies operate according to international standards and criteria, ensuring that CABs meet stringent requirements for technical competence, impartiality, and reliability. They conduct thorough assessments through a structured evaluation process, which may include online/on-site inspections, proficiency testing, and review of management systems.

How to Apply for Accreditation?

To apply for accreditation from ABIS (Accreditation Board for International Standards), follow these general steps:

Visit ABIS’s official website or contact us directly to review the specific accreditation requirements applicable to your type of conformity assessment body (CAB)

Gather all necessary documentation required for the accreditation process

Complete the application form. Ensure all required documentation is included and accurately filled out.

ABIS will conduct an initial assessment of your application to determine if it meets the initial eligibility criteria.

Depending on the type of CAB and accreditation requirements, ABIS may schedule an online or on-site assessment. During the onsite assessment, ABIS assessors will visit your facilities to evaluate your operations, management systems, and technical competence.

After completing the assessment(s), ABIS will make an accreditation decision based on whether your organization meets the required standards and criteria. If successful, you will receive formal notification and an accreditation certificate specifying the scope of accreditation.

Once accredited, you must maintain compliance with ABIS’s ongoing requirements, which includes regular surveillance assessments to ensure continued adherence to standards and continuous improvement.

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