July 26, 2024
ISO accredited vs non-accredited certification: what’s the difference?
ISO certification is a valuable tool for businesses looking to improve their processes, demonstrate their commitment to quality and gain a competitive edge.
However, when pursuing ISO certification, you’ll encounter two main options: accredited and non-accredited. Understanding the difference between these two paths is crucial for making the right choice for your business.
This article aims to clarify the distinction between accredited and non-accredited ISO certification. We’ll explore what each option entails, their fundamental differences and the pros and cons of each approach. By the end, you’ll have a clearer understanding of which certification path might be best suited to your organisation’s needs and goals.
What is ISO accredited certification?
Accredited ISO certification is provided by certification bodies that have been assessed and recognised by national accreditation bodies.
In the UK, the primary accreditation body is the United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS). In Ireland, it’s the Irish National Accreditation Board (INAB).
These accreditation bodies ensure that certification bodies meet rigorous standards in terms of their competence, impartiality and consistency. They regularly assess the certification bodies to ensure they’re maintaining these high standards.
When you receive accredited certification, it means that your management system has been audited and certified by a body that has proven its capability to perform this task to an internationally recognised standard. It can add an extra layer of credibility to your certification. It can be beneficial if you’re operating in highly regulated industries or dealing with clients who specifically require accredited certification.
However, accredited certification also has potential drawbacks. It can be more time-consuming and costly due to the strict requirements and additional ISO consultancy fees from non-accredited providers. This is because accreditation providers can’t offer any additional support during the implementation process or ongoing management of your certification. They can only carry out the audits and provide you with a pass or fail.  And its rigid process may not suit all businesses, particularly smaller organisations or those with unique operational models.
What is non-accredited ISO certification?
Non-accredited ISO certification is provided by certification bodies that aren’t overseen by national accreditation bodies like UKAS or INAB.
While non-accredited certification bodies aren’t subject to the same level of oversight as accredited bodies, they still maintain high standards of professionalism and expertise. They often offer a more flexible approach to certification, which can be more beneficial.
Non-accredited certification bodies provide a valuable service, particularly for organisations that may not require the level of recognition that comes with accredited certification. They can offer more support and guidance throughout the certification process, helping businesses improve their management systems and achieve compliance with ISO standards.
Non-accredited certification is often more flexible, allowing for a more tailored approach to your business needs. It can accommodate specific organisational needs and objectives, resulting in a smoother, more personalised experience.
Non-accredited certification bodies may also offer consultancy services alongside certification, helping you improve your management system as well as certifying it.
Key differences between accredited and non-accredited certification
The main difference between accredited and non-accredited ISO certification lies in the level of regulatory oversight. The Management Systems themselves are exactly the same, no matter which route you take.Â
Accredited certification bodies are regularly assessed by national accreditation bodies, ensuring they maintain high standards of competence and impartiality. Non-accredited bodies don’t undergo this external assessment.
Recognition and acceptance can also differ. Accredited certification tends to be more widely recognised in sectors where regulatory compliance is crucial. Some industries or clients may specifically require accredited certification. However, for most businesses, non-accredited certification is perfectly acceptable and can still provide significant benefits.
The audit process and requirements can vary between accredited and non-accredited certification. Accredited bodies must follow strict guidelines set by the accreditation bodies, which can make the process more rigid, with little support for clients. Non-accredited bodies often have more flexibility in their approach and can offer as much support as required, which can be beneficial for some organisations.
Choosing the right certification path for your business
When deciding between accredited and non-accredited ISO certification, consider your business needs and goals. Ask yourself:
- Do your clients or industry regulators require accredited certification?
- What’s your budget?
- How quickly do you need to achieve certification?
- Do you need additional support or consultancy?
If you’re in a highly regulated industry like aerospace or healthcare, accredited certification might be necessary. However, non-accredited certification is sufficient for most service-based businesses and SMEs.
Common misconceptions about certification
There are several myths surrounding accredited and non-accredited certification. A common misconception is that non-accredited certification is somehow ‘less valid’ than accredited certification. In reality, both provide valuable benefits to your business.
Another myth is that accredited certification always provides better results. While accredited certification does offer certain advantages, non-accredited certification can sometimes provide more tailored support and guidance, leading to more meaningful improvements in your management systems.
Both accredited and non-accredited certification can add value to your business. The best choice depends on your specific needs and circumstances.
ISO consultancy’s role in certification
Consultants can play a crucial role in the non-accredited certification process. Specialist ISO consultants like ISO QSL can help you prepare for certification, implement the necessary management systems and guide you through the audit process.
If you’re going for accredited certification, expert ISO consultants can help you navigate the more rigid requirements and prepare for the stringent audits.
For non-accredited certification, ISO consultants often work more closely with you, providing ongoing support and advice alongside the certification process.
How can ISO QSL help?
If your organisation is interested in implementing an ISO standard but you’re unsure where to begin, ISO QSL can help. As a leading provider of ISO certification services, our expert team can guide your business through the process and help you achieve certification in as little as eight weeks.
Our friendly, expert team is ready to help. Give us a call today to discuss your requirements.
