USTMCERT follows a structured, impartial, and transparent accreditation process designed to evaluate the competence, consistency, and integrity of conformity assessment bodies. The process is proportionate to the size, scope, and complexity of the applicant organization and focuses on continual improvement as well as compliance.
Step 1: Initial Enquiry
Organizations seeking accreditation begin by submitting an initial enquiry to USTMCERT. This includes basic information about the organization, the type of activities performed (certification, inspection, testing, training, etc.), and the scope of accreditation requested. USTMCERT reviews this information to confirm eligibility and applicability.
Step 2: Formal Application
Following the enquiry stage, eligible organizations submit a formal application along with required documentation. This typically includes management system procedures, competence records, impartiality policies, audit or assessment processes, and relevant operational controls. A detailed application allows USTMCERT to understand how the organization operates and manages conformity assessment activities.
Step 3: Documentation Review
USTMCERT conducts a thorough review of submitted documentation to evaluate alignment with applicable accreditation standards and requirements. This step ensures that systems, procedures, and records are adequately developed before an assessment takes place. Any gaps identified at this stage are communicated to the applicant for clarification or improvement.
Step 4: Assessment
An assessment is conducted by qualified and independent assessors appointed by USTMCERT. Depending on scope and risk, assessments may be conducted on-site, remotely, or through a combination of both. The assessment evaluates technical competence, impartiality, implementation of procedures, and consistency of operations across all requested scopes.
Step 5: Corrective Actions
If nonconformities are identified during the assessment, the applicant organization is required to implement corrective actions within a defined timeframe. Evidence of corrective action is reviewed to ensure that root causes have been addressed effectively and that compliance has been achieved.
Step 6: Accreditation Decision
Once the assessment process is complete and all corrective actions have been verified, an independent accreditation decision is made. This decision is based on objective evidence and assessment findings and is separate from the assessment team to ensure impartiality.
Step 7: Granting of Accreditation
Successful applicants are granted accreditation for the defined scope and are listed as USTMCERT-accredited organizations. Accreditation certificates and schedules clearly define the approved activities and limitations, where applicable.
Step 8: Ongoing Surveillance & Reassessment
Accreditation is maintained through regular surveillance and periodic reassessment. USTMCERT monitors performance, reviews changes, and ensures continued compliance to maintain confidence in accredited organizations.
The USTMCERT FORUM accepts applications for accreditation from Conformity Assessment Bodies (CABs) and Further Education and Training Institutions (FETIs) (referred to as the “Applicant”) from around the world.
The accreditation application process of the USTMCERT FORUM is outlined below:
- The Applicant downloads the Accreditation Scheme Manual and the Application Pack.
- The Applicant carefully reads and understands the Accreditation Scheme Manual, especially the requirements for granting and maintaining accreditation and the current fee structure.
- The Applicant ensures compliance with the relevant requirements of ISO/IEC 17021:2006 and other accreditation requirements, such as the “Responsible Education Provider™”, as specified in the Accreditation Scheme Manual. The Applicant must also ensure that adequate resources are available to perform the requested scope of activities and agrees to pay all applicable fees, whether or not accreditation is granted.
- The Applicant CAB completes and submits the application form along with all required supporting documents and the applicable fees.
- After receiving the application and fees, the USTMCERT FORUM reviews the submitted documents against the applicable accreditation criteria and provides a review report to the Applicant. The assessment process proceeds only after the documented systems meet the required criteria.
- The Applicant CAB makes all necessary arrangements for the office assessment and witness assessment, including access to all relevant areas, records, and personnel.
- The USTMCERT FORUM appoints an assessment team to conduct an on-site assessment at the Applicant’s office and other relevant locations. After completing the assessment, the team prepares a report with its findings and recommendations and submits it to the Accreditation Approval Committee (AAC).
- The AAC reviews the assessment report and makes a decision on the accreditation.
- If accreditation is approved, a Certificate of Accreditation is issued to the Applicant after signing the Accreditation Agreement.
- If accreditation is not approved, the Applicant is informed of the reasons for the decision. A new application may be submitted at a later date.
- After accreditation is granted, regular surveillance visits are conducted to assess the Accredited Organization’s continued compliance with accreditation requirements.
- A full reassessment is conducted every three years.
