Certification Decision Process

Certification Decision Process

1. Overview

At InterGlobal Certification (IGC), our certification decision process is designed to ensure that every certificate we issue is based on objective evidence and a rigorous technical review. To maintain the highest level of impartiality, IGC ensures that the final decision to grant or refuse certification is made by a centralized team of subject matter experts who were not involved in the actual audit activities.

2. The Recommendation (The Audit Stage)

At the conclusion of an assessment, the appointed Lead Auditor prepares a comprehensive audit report. This report includes:

• A summary of the procedures performed.
• A detailed record of the objective evidence inspected.
• A formal recommendation regarding certification (e.g., Grant, Maintain, or Suspend).

While the Lead Auditor provides the recommendation, they do not have the authority to grant the certificate.

3. Technical Review (The "Four-Eyes" Principle)

Once the audit report is submitted, it undergoes a Technical Review by a centralized team of Subject Matter Experts (SMEs). This team reviews the file for:

• Conformity: Ensuring the audit was conducted according to IGC’s internal quality system and ISO/IEC 17021-1.
• Normative Compliance: Verifying that the evidence supports the requirements of the specific standard.
• Accreditation Rules: Ensuring all applicable accreditation body requirements have been met.

4. The Decision Categories

Based on the Technical Review, IGC is responsible for making decisions relating to:

• Granting: Issuing a certificate for the first time.
• Maintaining: Confirming the certificate remains valid after a surveillance audit.
• Renewing: Re-issuing the certificate after a 3-year re-assessment.
• Expanding/Reducing: Adjusting the scope of certification based on changes in the client's business.
• Suspending/Withdrawing: Taking action if the management system fails to meet requirements.
• Restoring: Re-activating a certificate after a suspension has been resolved.

5. Communication of the Decision

The client is formally notified of the decision. If certification is granted, the official certificate is issued. If certification is refused or suspended, IGC provides the client with a clear explanation of the reasons for the decision and the steps required for reconsideration.

6. Impartiality and Oversight

All decision-makers operate under the oversight of the IGC Impartiality Committee. They must remain free from any commercial, financial, or personal pressures that could influence the outcome of a certification decision.