We are often asked about the difference between certifications and why one is cheaper than the other, so we thought we would try and explain this in a simple but honest way….

ISO Certification can come in two forms. Certification from an accredited certification body or certification from a non-accredited certification body.

In the UK, the main recognised organisation that accredits Certification Bodies to audit and access clients Management Systems is known as UKAS (United Kingdom Accreditation Service). UKAS in turn is a member of the International Accreditation Forum (IAF), the world association of Conformity Assessment Accreditation Bodies.

A non-accredited certification body (as the name suggests) is not accredited by UKAS or any member of the IAF and therefore does not meet the rigorous requirements set down by an accredited Certification Body.

Therefore many of your potential clients will not accept ISO Certificates from Non Accredited Certification Bodies and any organisation seeking to attain ISO Certification needs to realise this fact before embarking on the journey to attaining certification.

Please be aware that you may not be getting that cheap price deal that you have been promised of gaining certification if the certificate you gain is not recognised by your potential clients. Always carry out your due diligence and ensure that you are using a recognised accredited Certification Body and also a qualified & experienced consultant to assist you if needed.

Contact us if you would like more information or advice for your Organisation.