Certification decisions

1. Certification Decision (Granting Certification)

Certification Decision and Granting of Certification

Certification is granted only after successful completion of:

• Stage 1 audit (documentation review)
• Stage 2 audit (implementation verification)
• Technical review of audit results
• Independent certification decision

If the organization meets all certification requirements, the certification body will grant certification and issue a certificate valid for three years, subject to successful surveillance audits.

2. Maintaining Certification

Maintaining Certification

To maintain certification, certified organizations must:

• Undergo annual surveillance audits
• Maintain compliance with the applicable management system standard
• Continue to meet certification requirements
• Allow access for surveillance and recertification audits

Failure to comply may result in suspension or withdrawal of certification.

3. Suspension of Certification

Certification may be suspended temporarily if:

• The management system fails to meet certification requirements
• Surveillance or recertification audits are not allowed
• The certified organization voluntarily requests suspension

During suspension:

• The certificate is temporarily invalid
• The organization cannot claim certification
• Suspension period shall not exceed six months

Certification may be restored if the issues causing suspension are resolved.

4. Withdrawal of Certification

Certification may be withdrawn permanently if:

• Suspension issues are not resolved within the specified period
• The client repeatedly fails to meet certification requirements
• The organization misuses certification or certification marks

After withdrawal:

• The organization must stop using the certificate and certification marks
• The organization will be removed from the list of certified clients

5. Reduction or Expansion of Scope

Certification scope may be reduced if part of the management system does not meet certification requirements.

Certification scope may be expanded if:

• Additional processes or locations are audited
• Certification requirements are met