Assessment, Decision-Making & Re-assessment Cycle

Assessment process

1. Pre-assessment (optional, on request) — exploratory visit to identify readiness gaps; no accreditation decision follows.
2. Document review — the quality documentation and scope are reviewed against the scheme requirements before the on-site visit.
3. On-site assessment — performed by a qualified assessment team (lead assessor + technical experts); covers management system requirements, technical competence, sampling of activities, equipment, personnel and measurement capability.
4. Witnessing — where the scheme requires it, the witnessing of the CAB’s own assessment activities is part of the on-site programme.
5. Findings & response — nonconformities are documented; the CAB submits corrective action with objective evidence within the agreed window (normally 30 days; major nonconformities before the decision).

Decision-making mechanics

• The assessment team recommends; the Accreditation Decision Committee — independent of the assessment team and of the applicant — decides. Decision-making is separated from assessment by charter.
• Decisions are based only on the assessment records; the applicant receives a written, reasoned decision.

Maintenance & re-assessment

• Accreditation is granted for a defined validity period (see the registry record), with surveillance assessments at least every 12 months (announced and/or unannounced).
• Re-assessment takes place before expiry to renew; extensions of scope are handled as separate mid-cycle applications (see Fees).