Certifieringsarbete

Certifieringsarbete refers to the activities involved in certification processes carried out by independent certification bodies. These bodies assess conformity of products, services, management systems or individuals to predefined standards or requirements. The work includes planning, evaluation, decision making and ongoing surveillance to ensure that requirements are met and kept over time.

Certification can target different objects. Product certification assesses that a product complies with technical standards or safety requirements. Management-system certification covers frameworks such as ISO 9001 (quality), ISO 14001 (environment), ISO 27001 (information security) and ISO 45001 (occupational health and safety). Personnel certification validates individual competencies and qualifications. In practice, many sectors require or benefit from certification to demonstrate conformity to applicable norms.

Standards and accreditation: Certification bodies operate under international norms to ensure consistency and trust. ISO/IEC 17021-1 provides criteria for bodies that certify management systems, ISO/IEC 17065 for product certification, and ISO/IEC 17024 for personnel certification. Accreditation by national or international accreditation bodies confirms a certifier’s competence, impartiality and consistent assessment practices.

Process: A typical certification process includes defining the scope, document review, planning, on-site audits or tests, collection of evidence, and a certification decision. If requirements are met, a certificate is issued. Ongoing surveillance audits or recertification reviews are conducted to verify continued conformance and to address any non-conformities through corrective actions.

Impact: Certification provides assurance to customers, regulators and supply chains, supports market access and encourages continuous improvement. The field is governed by principles of impartiality, confidentiality and competence, with established procedures for handling non-conformities, appeals and suspensions when necessary. Certifieringsarbete spans industries and national contexts, from product safety to management systems and professional qualifications.