accréditation
Accréditation is a formal recognition by an independent, authoritative body that a conformity assessment organization is competent to carry out specific tasks in accordance with defined standards. It is commonly applied to laboratories, inspection bodies, and certification bodies that perform testing, calibration, inspection, or certification activities. Accreditation does not certify a product or service itself; rather, it confirms the competence and impartiality of the organization that assesses those products or services.
An accreditation body evaluates the competence, impartiality, and consistency of conformity assessment bodies (CABs). CABs may
The typical process starts with an application and a review of the CAB’s management system and technical
Internationally, accreditation is supported by recognition arrangements such as the International Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation (ILAC) and
Key distinctions: accreditation attests to the CAB’s competence, not the product or service; certification and licensure