Opting to achieve ISO certification for your organisation requires understanding whether to go for a UKAS or a non-UKAS certification. Both these routes offer a means to achieve ISO certification. However, they differ in their approach, recognition and credibility.
Here at Critical Path, we understand that achieving ISO for the first time can be an overwhelming experience, so we have covered the key differences in this blog post to answer some of your questions.
The United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS) is a government-appointed agency that assesses the competence and capability of organisations offering certification, testing, inspection, and calibration services against globally recognised standards.
Organisations who are certified are assured of a high standard of quality and reliability. The "crown and tick" signifies a company's achieving the gold standard in ISO certification.
A non-UKAS ISO certification is granted by a body not accredited by the United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS). Unlike UKAS-accredited certifications, which undergo rigorous assessment and meet internationally recognised standards, non-UKAS certifications may lack the same level of credibility and assurance.
These certifications may be less widely recognised or accepted in tendering processes and industry settings, potentially raising concerns about their reliability and compliance with ISO standards. While anyone can issue an 'ISO Certificate', only UKAS-accredited bodies have undergone independent assessment and approval.
For organisations achieving ISO as a prerequisite when tendering for work, UKAS certification will stand out more prominently than a non-UKAS certification because it ensures the certification is internationally recognised and held to rigorous standards.
Many tendering processes require UKAS-accredited certification to mitigate risks associated with non-compliance and ensure that the awarded organisation meets the highest quality and safety standards. Without the accreditation, ISO certification may not carry the same weight or credibility, potentially jeopardising opportunities for securing contracts or projects.
Opting for this accreditation when achieving ISO certification for your company has many benefits; below, we will cover five main benefits.
UKAS accreditation is recognised as a symbol of quality, competence, and integrity. Organisations accredited by UKAS demonstrate their adherence to internationally accepted standards and best practices, assuring customers, partners, and regulators worldwide. This global recognition opens doors to new markets, enhances reputation, and facilitates international trade agreements and collaborations.
Achieving UKAS accreditation enhances an organisation's credibility and reputation within its industry and among stakeholders. Accreditation signifies that the organisation has undergone rigorous assessment by an independent and authoritative body, validating its competence, reliability, and commitment to quality management systems. This enhanced credibility builds trust with customers, suppliers, investors, and other stakeholders, leading to increased confidence and loyalty.
UKAS accreditation improves market access by demonstrating compliance with regulatory requirements, industry standards, and customer expectations. Accredited organisations have a competitive advantage in procurement processes, tendering opportunities, and supply chain relationships. Market access is not limited to domestic markets but extends to international markets where UKAS accreditation is recognised, facilitating trade agreements and market expansion strategies.
UKAS accreditation helps mitigate risks associated with product failures, safety incidents, and legal liabilities. Accredited organisations adhere to recognised standards and best practices, reducing the likelihood of quality issues, non-compliance with regulations, and reputational damage. By implementing robust quality management systems and continuous improvement processes, accredited organisations can identify, assess, and mitigate risks effectively, ensuring operational excellence and business resilience.
UKAS accreditation instils confidence in customers by assuring them of consistent product quality, reliable services, and adherence to industry standards. Accredited organisations prioritise customer satisfaction and loyalty by maintaining high standards of performance, transparency, and accountability. Customer confidence leads to repeat business, positive referrals, and long-term relationships, driving revenue growth and sustainable business success.
Here at Critical Path, we understand the complexities and challenges involved in achieving ISO certification, especially for the first time. While it's important to note that we do not conduct the ISO audit ourselves, we do play a huge part in thoroughly preparing your organisation for it.
We offer a mock audit service, and we cover the following standards:
Our mock audit service, also known as a pre-audit, includes a detailed review of documentation, on-site assessments, gap analysis, risk assessment, continual improvement recommendations, and training and support. Through this comprehensive approach, we identify areas for improvement, provide actionable recommendations, and prepare your organisation to confidently achieve ISO certification.
Selecting the appropriate path for ISO certification—whether UKAS or non-UKAS—requires careful consideration of various factors. UKAS accreditation, endorsed by the British government, signifies credibility and reliability due to its stringent standards and comprehensive audits. On the other hand, non-UKAS options offer a faster, more budget-friendly approach, albeit with potentially less industry recognition.
The choice really comes down to what suits your organisation best. But no matter which path you choose, Critical Path will be here to support you. We're not here to conduct the audit ourselves (that would be like grading our own homework!), but we're here to make sure you're well-prepared for it. With Critical Path as your partner, you're in good hands to achieve and continually maintain ISO certification for your organisation.
