ISO certification can significantly enhance an organisation’s credibility, demonstrating its commitment to quality, safety, and efficiency. However, like any certification, ISO status is not permanent. Businesses must ensure that their ISO certification remains valid to maintain compliance with international standards and reassure clients and stakeholders. In this blog post, we will explore how to check if an ISO certification is still valid and what steps to take if it is not.
Understanding ISO Certification Validity
ISO certifications, such as ISO 9001, ISO 14001, or ISO 45001, are typically granted for three years, during which the certified organisation is required to undergo regular surveillance audits. These audits are conducted to assess ongoing compliance with the ISO standards. If an organisation fails to meet the requirements during these audits or does not renew its certification, the certification may become invalid.
Steps to Check ISO Certification Validity
- Review the Certificate
The first step in checking the validity of an ISO certification is to review the certificate itself. Look for the following key details:- Certificate Issue Date: This indicates when the certification was granted.
- Expiry Date: Most ISO certificates have an expiration date, typically three years after issuance. If the current date is past the expiry date, the certification is no longer valid.
- Certification Body: Ensure that the certification was issued by a reputable and accredited certification body.
- Contact the Certification Body
The certification body that issued the ISO certificate is the most reliable source of information regarding its validity. You can take the following steps:- Locate Contact Information: Find the contact details for the certification body listed on the certificate.
- Inquire About Status: Reach out to the certification body via phone or email to inquire about the status of the certification. Provide them with the certificate number and any other relevant information they may require.
- Check for Online Databases
Many accredited certification bodies maintain online databases where you can verify the status of ISO certifications. To use these databases:- Visit the Certification Body’s Website: Navigate to the section of their website dedicated to certification verification.
- Enter Relevant Details: Input the required details, such as the organisation’s name or certificate number, into the database to check if the certification is still valid.
- Review Surveillance Audit Reports
If you are affiliated with the organisation or have access to their records, review the results of recent surveillance audits. These reports provide insights into compliance with ISO standards and whether any non-conformities were identified that could affect certification validity. - Look for Recertification
After the initial certification period, organisations must undergo a recertification audit before their certificate expires. You can check if the organisation has gone through this process:- Ask the Organisation: If you are a stakeholder or a client, ask the organisation about their recertification status. They should be able to provide you with proof of recertification if it has taken place.
- Request Documentation: You can also request to see the latest certification documents, including any new certificates issued after a recertification audit.
- Check for Accreditation
Ensure that the organisation’s ISO certification is accredited by a recognised body. Accreditation indicates that the certification body meets specific standards and requirements. To check for accreditation:- Look for Accreditation Logos: The certificate should display the accreditation body’s logo, which often signifies that the certification is recognised internationally.
- Verify Accreditation Status: Visit the accreditation body’s website to confirm that the certification body is still accredited and in good standing.
What to Do If ISO Certification is No Longer Valid
If you discover that an organisation’s ISO certification is no longer valid, consider the following steps:
- Assess the Implications
Evaluate the impact of the invalid certification on your relationship with the organisation. Determine whether their lack of certification affects your trust in their processes, products, or services. - Request Clarification
If you are a customer or stakeholder, reach out to the organisation for clarification. Ask why their certification is no longer valid and what steps they are taking to rectify the situation. - Consider Alternatives
If the organisation is unable to reinstate their certification in a reasonable timeframe, consider alternative suppliers or partners who maintain valid ISO certifications. This will help ensure that you continue to work with organisations committed to quality and compliance. - Encourage Compliance
If you have a vested interest in the organisation, such as being a part of their management team or a consultant, encourage them to pursue recertification. Provide support and resources to help them regain their ISO certification status.
Conclusion
Checking the validity of an ISO certification is crucial for maintaining trust and ensuring compliance with international standards. By following the steps outlined in this blog post, stakeholders can easily verify whether an organisation’s ISO certification is still valid and take appropriate action if necessary.
