Although starting the process of ISO certification may seem daunting it does not have to be. No matter which ISO standard you choose to implement, our ISO experts will be able to guide you through the entire process and ensure your team has the support they need.
To break down the process even further we created a helpful infographic outlining the process for you.
ISO Certification Overview
To receive ISO certification your dedicated team will have to establish, implement, and successfully maintain your management system. Once implementation is completed and internal audits have been passed you would need to engage with a certification body and start the official process for receiving certification.
Our below infographic will take you step by step through the process and our accompanying content will take you through questions we receive frequently including:
- Are all Certification Bodies the same?
- How many steps are involved?
- How long will our ISO Certification last?
- How often will we be audited?
The certification process is the same for any ISO standard.
Is Certification Right for You?
Certification is right for your organisation if you are in a heavily regulated sector that uses ISO certification as a barrier to entry and if certification is aligned with your long-term goals within your organisation.
Certification is not required for all industries, the decision to only implement or to go ahead and receive certification relies on your long-term goals and organisational objectives.
The 12 Steps of ISO Certification
Overall, from beginning to end the certification process has twelve steps. The process starts after your management system has been successfully established, implemented and is currently being maintained.
1. Inquiry
Choose the right Certification Bodies with accreditation that has experience in your sector. Inquire and start your certification process.
2. Completion of Questionnaires
You will receive forms and questionnaires with the information required to receive quotations. Certification bodies tend to quote for a three-year contract.
3. Selecting the Right Proposal
Select the right Certification Body for you after comparing total costs and processes in the proposals. If your sector prefers a particular certification body, consider them first.
4. Confirmation of Schedule
Agree on an audit schedule and the overall audit plan. Expect a one to three-month notice before the audit will take place.
5. Initial Audit – Stage 1
The first audit will take place, where the certification body will conduct a site visit to review your readiness for the audit. Expect a report with details on your current level of compliance with the requirements of the standard.
6. Document Review
Present your system documentation for review. This ensures all documentation includes the requirements of the Standard.
7. Initial Audit – Stage 2
The next step is the Registration Audit, which is to be conducted at your organisation’s location(s). This audit will check every aspect of your system to ensure the Standard is complied with. You will receive an Audit Report which will detail your state of compliance and any nonconformances found.
8. Corrective Action
You will need to submit a corrective action to address every noncompliance. If you receive a major noncompliance expect delays if evidence of ongoing complaint is required.
9. Review and Verification
Your chosen Certification Body will review your corrective action plan to ensure there will be no recurrence of noncompliance with the standard.
10. Certification is Issued
If your evidence audit report is consistent with the standard and recommended certification your Certification Body will issue your Certificate with 3-year validity.
11. Surveillance Audits
Once your certification is issued the Certification Body will carry out surveillance audits annually to ensure your system is being maintained.
12. Recertification Audit
After three years, if you require recertification another thorough audit is completed. If the audit is successful a new three-year certificate will be issued.
If you need any expert advice or support during your ISO implementation and internal auditing stages, reach out to one of our experts today on 012 644 0142 or email us on admin@wwise.co.za.