Definition
A certification body (CB) is a conformity assessment body that audits and certifies management systems (among other possible schemes) against specified standards and issues certificates when requirements are met.
Accreditation link
CBs may be accredited by an accreditation body for defined standards and scopes. Buyers often require accredited CBs.
Independence from consultancy
Impartiality rules restrict certifying systems the same body consulted on. Keep implementation consultancy separate from the CB.
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Need help applying this?Consultancy vs certification
Beyond Carbon provides ISO consultancy, implementation support, documentation assistance, and audit preparation support. Independent certification bodies issue certificates after successful certification audits. Beyond Carbon does not present itself as a certification body or accreditation body.
Certification roles
| Role | Responsibility |
|---|---|
| Organization | Owns and operates the management system and evidence |
| Consultant | Advises, implements, and prepares — does not issue certificates |
| Certification body | Independently audits and decides certification |
| Accreditation body | Assesses competence of certification bodies |
| ISO | Develops international standards — does not certify organizations |
FAQs
No.
ISO publishes standards; independent CBs certify.
Check accreditation directories and customer acceptance lists.
Grant, refuse, maintain, suspend, withdraw, or expand/reduce certification per its rules.
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What happens after you submit?
We do not promise minute-level response times unless operationally guaranteed.
- We received your request
- Your requirements are reviewed
- A consultant contacts you
- Scope is clarified
- Next steps are recommended
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