Certification Process
Wondering about next steps?
Our team will gladly walk you through the necessary steps from first contact to receiving your certificate. See the process below so you know what to expect.
Initial Information
The process starts with the client’s needs and expectations. DQS Inc. wants to learn about the client’s organization, its management system objectives, size and types of operations. Together both parties will define objectives for the assessment and/or certification, including applicable standards and specifications.
Offer and Contract
DQS Inc. will provide a detailed offer for assessment and certification services, tailored to individual client needs, based on the information provided initially. Upon acceptance of the offer, a written contract will specify all relevant deliverables as well as applicable assessment and certification criteria.
GAP Assessment/ Project Planning (Optional)
A Gap Assessment can serve as initial service, identifying strengths and areas for improvement. For larger assessment and certification projects a project planning meeting provides a valuable opportunity for the client to meet the lead assessor and develop a customized assessment plan for all functions and locations involved. Both services are optional.
Stage 1 Audit: System Assessment
The certification process itself begins with review and evaluation of system documentation, goals, results of management review and internal audits. During this process, it will be determined whether the client’s management system is sufficiently developed and ready for certification. The assessor will explain areas of concern and coordinate any required activities to prepare for the on-site system assessment.
Stage 2 Audit: Registration Assessment
The Stage 2 Audit occurs after the successful Stage 1 Audit. The assigned audit team will assess the client’s management system at the place of production or service delivery. Applying defined management system standards and specifications, the audit team will evaluate the effectiveness of all functional areas as well as all management system processes, based upon observations, interviews, review of pertinent documents and records, and other assessment techniques. The audit result, including all findings, if any and opportunities for improvement will be presented to the client during the closing meeting. Required action plans will be agreed upon as necessary.
Certification Evaluation
The independent certification function of DQS Inc. will evaluate the audit process and its results, and make an independent certification decision about issuance of the certificate. The client receives an assessment report, documenting the assessment results. When all applicable requirements are fulfilled the client also receives the certificate.
First Annual Surveillance
Either semi-annually or at least once per calendar year, there will be an on-site audit of the critical components of the management system. Strengths, Opportunities for improvement and findings if applicable will be identified, with a focus on continual improvement and sustained effectiveness.
Second Annual Surveillance
Same as item 7 above in the following year. A management system certificate is valid for a limited period of time, frequently for a maximum of three years.
Reassessment
At the end of this cycle, a reassessment will be carried out to ensure the ongoing fulfillment of all applicable requirements. Subject to this fulfillment, a new certificate will be issued.
