Certification decisions are based on sufficient objective evidence, applicable program rules and an independent review by the responsible certification body.
Granting certification
Certification may be granted after application and contract review, completion of the required Stage 1 and Stage 2 activities, satisfactory treatment of nonconformities, confirmation of competence and scope, and an independent positive decision.
Maintaining and renewing certification
Maintenance depends on timely surveillance, continued conformity, effective correction of findings, payment and contractual obligations, appropriate use of certification claims, and notification of material organizational changes. Renewal requires recertification before the certificate expires.
Suspension
Certification may be suspended for persistent or serious failure to meet requirements, failure to permit required audits, misuse of marks, non-payment, significant unreported changes, voluntary request or other program conditions. The client is notified of the reason, affected scope, required actions and deadline. Suspension is normally resolved within six months unless the applicable scheme establishes another period.
Restoration, reduction and withdrawal
Certification may be restored after the causes of suspension are resolved and verified. Scope may be reduced when only part of the certified activities no longer conforms. Certification may be withdrawn when suspension is not resolved, requirements are seriously breached, the client requests withdrawal, operations cease or the agreement ends.
Refusal and appeal
A decision to refuse, suspend, reduce or withdraw is communicated with its basis and information on the right to appeal. Appeals are reviewed independently under the public complaints and appeals process.
Public status
The official certificate verification service is the authoritative source for current status.