ackrediteringsmyndighet

Ackrediteringsmyndighet is the Swedish term for an accreditation authority, a national or supranational body authorized to confer formal recognition on conformity assessment bodies. In Swedish context, it typically oversees laboratories, inspection bodies, and certification bodies that assess products, processes, or management systems against established standards. Accreditation authorities may be part of government agencies, independent entities, or public–private organizations, and operate within national legislation and regulatory frameworks.

Their main responsibilities include developing accreditation schemes aligned with international norms, evaluating conformity assessment bodies for competence and impartiality, issuing accreditation certificates with defined scopes, and conducting ongoing surveillance and reassessments. They also maintain public registries of accredited bodies, handle complaints and sanctions, and provide guidance to improve conformity assessment practices.

Internationally, accreditation authorities participate in networks such as the European co-operation for Accreditation (EA), the International Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation (ILAC), and the International Accreditation Forum (IAF). Through mutual recognition arrangements, accreditation granted by recognized authorities is accepted across borders, supporting trade and regulatory acceptance.

Accreditation is often voluntary but can be mandated by law or procurement requirements in sectors like healthcare, pharmaceuticals, food, and construction. It offers stakeholders — regulators, buyers, and consumers — assurance of competence, consistency, and traceability of conformity assessments.

The typical process for obtaining accreditation involves an application, document review, on-site assessment, and a formal decision. Once granted, the accreditation is subject to regular surveillance and periodic reassessment, with potential scope extensions, renewals, or withdrawal if standards are not met.