Difference Between ISO Accreditation and ISO Certification

Two terms that often come into play in discussions about quality assurance are ISO accreditation and ISO certification. While they may sound similar, they carry distinct meanings and implications. The main Difference Between ISO Accreditation and ISO Certification is that ISO certification means a company meets certain ISO standards, whereas ISO Accreditation implies a company can access other companies to see if they meet ISO standards. 

This article aims to provide a thorough exploration of the differences between ISO accreditation and ISO certification, shedding light on their roles, benefits, and impact on various industries.

Difference Between ISO Accreditation and ISO Certification

ISO accreditation and ISO certification are both critical processes that organizations undergo to ensure their products, services, and operations meet specific quality standards. However, they differ in their scope, purpose, and nature.

ISO Accreditation: Establishing Competence

ISO accreditation focuses on evaluating an organization's overall competence and ability to perform specific tasks, often within a certain industry or sector. It is a comprehensive assessment that examines various aspects of an organization, including its management systems, processes, personnel, and infrastructure.

ISO Certification: Validating Conformance

ISO Certification, on the other hand, is a declaration by a third-party certification body that an organization's management system adheres to specific ISO standards. This certification verifies that an organization's processes, products, and services comply with international standards, enhancing customer trust and confidence.

Key Difference Between ISO Accreditation Process and ISO Certification Process

ISO Accreditation and ISO Certification involve distinct processes:

ISO Accreditation Process

• Self Assessment: The organization assesses its processes, policies, and personnel against the required standards.
• Application: The organization submits an application to the accrediting body.
• Assessment: The accrediting body conducts an evaluation to determine the organization's competence.
• Accreditation: If the assessment is successful, the organization receives accreditation.

ISO Certification Process

• Standard Selection: The organization selects the relevant ISO standard for its industry and operations.
• Preparation: The organization aligns its processes with the chosen standard's requirements.
• Documentation: The organization documents its adherence to the standard's criteria.
• External Audit: An independent certification body conducts an audit to verify compliance.
• Certification: Upon successful audit, the organization is granted ISO Certification.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is ISO accreditation?

A: ISO accreditation refers to the certification granted by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) to businesses that meet certain quality management standards and criteria.

Q: What is ISO certification? 

A: ISO certification is a globally recognized standard that confirms an organization's adherence to quality, safety, and efficiency standards in their products, services, or processes.

Q: What's the main difference between ISO Accreditation and ISO Certification?

A: ISO Accreditation focuses on an organization's competence and ability to perform certain tasks, while ISO Certification pertains to conforming to specific standards in products, services, or processes.

Q: Can an organization be ISO accredited without being ISO certified?

A: Yes, an organization can achieve ISO Accreditation without obtaining ISO Certification. Accreditation focuses on overall operational excellence, whereas certification specifically addresses compliance with ISO standards.

Q: How long does it take to get ISO accredited or certified?

A: The timeline varies based on factors like the organization's size, complexity, and preparedness. Accreditation and certification processes can take several months.