Definition
Conformity assessment is demonstration that specified requirements relating to a product, process, service, system, person, or body are fulfilled. Activities can include testing, inspection, certification, and accreditation.
Management system certification is one form of conformity assessment.
First-, second-, and third-party assessment
First-party: performed by the person or organization that provides the object. Second-party: performed by a person or organization with a user interest. Third-party: performed by a body independent of the provider and user interests.
Certification audits are typically third-party conformity assessment.
In the ISO management system journey
Organizations implement systems, assess themselves through internal audit, may face customer assessment, and may undergo CB certification assessment. Accreditation assesses the CB.
Keeping these layers distinct prevents false claims.
Need help applying this?
Use the guide, then discuss your requirements when ready — without sales pressure.
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.
FAQs
It is a first-party assessment activity supporting the management system. It is not third-party certification.
Consultancy helps build systems; it is not independent certification assessment of that system.
Products, processes, services, systems, persons, or bodies — depending on the scheme.
Accreditation is conformity assessment of the competence of conformity assessment bodies.
Buyers may require specific third-party certification under accreditation. Vague wording causes disputes.
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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