Certification: Who Certifies ISO 9001?
By Branden Crowe
So, you've decided to pursue ISO 9001 certification, or maybe you're just curious about how the process works. You might be wondering, “Who actually certifies ISO 9001?” Let’s dive into what it means to be ISO certified, who can grant certification, and what to look for when choosing a certification body.
Choosing a Certification Body
When it comes to getting ISO 9001 certified, the process is actually handled by third-party organizations called certification bodies (CBs), not by ISO itself. Certification bodies are the entities that assess your company's processes and issue the official certification once you meet all the requirements of the ISO 9001 Quality Management System standard. But here’s the thing: not all certification bodies are created equal.
How to Choose a Reliable Certification Body
When selecting a certification body, you want to ensure it’s reputable, accredited by a recognized authority, and able to deliver internationally recognized certification. A trustworthy certification body should also comply with ISO/IEC 17021:2015, which outlines strict requirements for CBs that certify management systems.
Why Accreditation Matters
Accreditation ensures that the certification body has undergone thorough checks and adheres to high-quality standards. It also means that your ISO 9001 certification will be accepted worldwide, which is especially important if you operate internationally.
International Organizations in Cooperation with ISO for Accreditation
The International Accreditation Forum (IAF) is a key player in making sure certification bodies maintain standards across the board. They work in collaboration with ISO to monitor and recognize certification bodies globally, ensuring a consistent level of quality and reliability. This is especially useful when you’re looking to work with a certification body in another country or region.
ISO Does Not Perform Certification
Here’s a common misconception: many people assume that ISO itself grants ISO 9001 certification, but that’s not actually true. ISO is responsible for developing the standards, not for certifying companies. Certification is exclusively handled by independent third-party certification bodies, separate from ISO.
When you see a company that says it’s “ISO certified,” that certification comes from one of these independent certification bodies. ISO’s role is limited to setting and updating standards—not verifying who meets them.
Making a Complaint Related to Certification Claims
If you come across a company that’s claiming ISO 9001 certification without proper verification, or if you feel a certification body has acted improperly, there are ways to report it. The certification body itself should have a complaints process you can follow. Additionally, you can reach out to the IAF or the relevant accreditation authority in your region for support. Transparency and accountability are essential in the certification process, and reputable certification bodies will address and resolve complaints swiftly.
ISO Survey
ISO periodically conducts surveys to assess the number of certified companies worldwide. This survey provides insights into the reach and impact of ISO certifications across different regions and industries. It’s a great resource if you want to see how many organizations in your industry are certified to ISO 9001 standards. The latest survey results are available on the ISO website.
Can I Use the ISO Logo?
A common question we get is, “Can I use the ISO logo on my marketing materials once I’m certified?” The short answer is no. Only ISO itself can use the official ISO logo. However, once you achieve certification, you can use the certification body’s logo on your website, marketing materials, and other assets to show your ISO 9001 certification. Just make sure to follow any guidelines provided by your certification body regarding logo usage.
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FAQs About "Who Certifies ISO 9001?"
Q: Who certifies ISO 9001?
A: Independent certification bodies (CBs) are responsible for granting ISO 9001 certification, not ISO itself.
Q: Why doesn’t ISO issue the certification directly?
A: ISO’s role is to develop the standards, not to enforce or verify compliance. Certification bodies independently assess and certify companies.
Q: How can I ensure my certification body is reputable?
A: Look for a certification body accredited by a recognized accreditation authority, and ensure it complies with ISO/IEC 17021:2015 standards.
Q: Is ISO 9001 certification recognized globally?
A: Yes, provided you work with an accredited certification body whose certifications are internationally recognized.
Q: Can I display the ISO logo once I’m certified?
A: No, the ISO logo is reserved for ISO itself. However, you can use the certification body’s logo to show your certification.
FAQs About ISO Delivered
Q: What services does ISO Delivered offer?
A: ISO Delivered specializes in helping businesses navigate the ISO 9001 certification process, from understanding requirements to preparing for audits and choosing a certification body.
Q: Is ISO Delivered a certification body?
A: No, ISO Delivered is not a certification body. We provide consultancy and support services to guide you through the certification process.
Q: How can ISO Delivered help me achieve ISO 9001 certification?
A: We offer expertise in developing quality management systems, preparing for audits, and selecting reputable certification bodies to ensure a smooth certification journey.
Ready to kickstart your ISO 9001 journey? At ISO Delivered, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Let's work together to make your certification a success!