ISO/IEC 17021 specifies the criteria for the competence, consistency, and impartiality of bodies performing management system certifications. These certifications may cover various standards, such as ISO 9001 (Quality Management), ISO 14001 (Environmental Management), or ISO 45001 (Occupational Health and Safety).
Benefits of Accreditation under ISO/IEC 17021:
- Credibility and Trust:
- Accreditation to ISO/IEC 17021 enhances the credibility of certification bodies. It signals to clients and stakeholders that the body operates competently, impartially, and in accordance with international standards, fostering trust in the certification process.
- Global Recognition:
- ISO/IEC 17021 accreditation is globally recognized, facilitating the acceptance of certifications in various markets. Organizations holding certifications from accredited bodies are more readily accepted internationally.
- Consistency and Reliability:
- Accreditation ensures that certification bodies apply consistent and reliable processes when assessing management systems. This consistency leads to standardized certification practices, enhancing the reliability of certification outcomes.
- Market Access and Competitiveness:
- Accredited certification provides organizations with a competitive edge in the marketplace. Many clients and industries prefer or require certifications from accredited bodies, giving certified organizations broader market access.
- Risk Mitigation:
- Accreditation processes involve the identification and mitigation of risks associated with certification activities. This systematic approach helps ensure the accuracy and reliability of certification outcomes and minimizes potential risks.
- Legal Recognition:
- ISO/IEC 17021 accreditation provides a foundation for legal recognition. Certifications from accredited bodies are often more readily accepted by regulators and authorities, reducing the risk of legal challenges.
- Continuous Improvement:
- Accredited bodies are encouraged to adopt continuous improvement practices. This ensures that certification processes stay current with evolving industry standards and best practices, contributing to the ongoing improvement of management systems.