Certification process
A clear path from application to ongoing assurance.
The process is designed to confirm scope, assess objective evidence and support an impartial certification decision.
Six stages
Know what happens next—and why.
Exact timing depends on organizational size, complexity, number of locations, requested scope, audit-team availability and the readiness of the management system.
- 01
Application and scope review
You provide information about the organization, activities, locations, headcount, processes and requested standard. NACSER uses it to define the proposed scope, audit time and certification program.
- 02
Proposal and audit planning
Once the scope is understood, NACSER prepares the commercial proposal and coordinates audit dates, audit-team requirements and the information needed before Stage 1.
- 03
Stage 1 audit
The audit team reviews system readiness, scope, key documentation, site-specific conditions and planning for Stage 2. Any areas of concern are communicated so they can be addressed before the next stage.
- 04
Stage 2 audit
The team evaluates implementation and effectiveness through interviews, records, observations and process sampling. Any nonconformities are documented and require appropriate correction and corrective action.
- 05
Independent review and decision
Audit information and closure of applicable findings are reviewed before a certification decision is made. The decision is separate from the audit-team recommendation.
- 06
Certificate and ongoing surveillance
After a positive decision, the certificate is issued for the approved scope. Surveillance and recertification activities then maintain assurance throughout the certification relationship.
Audit readiness
Evidence we typically need to see.
The exact records depend on the standard and scope, but a functioning management system normally includes the following foundations.
- Defined scope, processes and responsibilities
- Applicable policies and measurable objectives
- Operational controls and retained records
- Competence and awareness evidence
- Monitoring and performance evaluation
- Completed internal audit and management review
- Nonconformity and corrective-action records
- Standard-specific risk and compliance evidence
Process questions
What organizations usually ask.
How long does certification take?
There is no reliable one-size-fits-all duration. Timing depends on readiness, size, complexity, sites, scope and the time required to address findings. A proposal should explain the audit program and scheduling assumptions.
Can NACSER write our procedures for us?
Certification and implementation consulting should remain separate. Your organization is responsible for designing and operating its management system; NACSER evaluates it against the applicable certification requirements.
What if the audit finds a nonconformity?
The finding is documented against a specific requirement and supporting evidence. Your organization must correct the issue, analyze its cause and take corrective action appropriate to the finding before the certification process can proceed as applicable.
Can the certification scope change later?
Yes. Changes to sites, activities, products, services or organizational structure should be communicated so NACSER can determine whether additional review or audit activity is required.
Begin
Ready for a scope review?
Send us the basics of your organization and target standard. We will identify the information needed for the next step.
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