Certification Process
1. Contact Us
We’d be delighted to hear from you to understand your needs and how we can assist you in achieving your certification goals.
2. Fee Proposal
International Standard Management Certification (ISMC) will reach out to gather detailed information about your business, personnel, services, or products, and the type of certification you require. This can be done via phone, office visit, or production facility tours. We ensure you have all the necessary information to complete the certification process and guide your organization in preparing for certification. Once we fully understand your needs, we will provide a proposal outlining the fees and costs involved. This service is complimentary, and there is no obligation to proceed with the certification.
3. Review / Contract
After reviewing and accepting the fee proposal, your organization’s authorized signatory will complete, sign, and return the Certification Proposal and Agreement Form. This form establishes a formal agreement between you and ISMC, outlining the certification process, related guidelines, appeals, logo usage, and terms & conditions.
4. Audit Team
A dedicated Lead Auditor will be assigned to your organization, acting as your primary contact throughout the certification process. Our auditors have expertise in your sector, ensuring tailored guidance and support throughout the audit and certification journey.
5. Stage 1 Audit
The Stage 1 Audit involves a preliminary assessment of your organization’s management systems to understand your operations, location, and how they align with the relevant standards. Any gaps in your system will be identified, and recommendations for resolving these will be provided, ensuring you are well-prepared for the Stage 2 audit.
6. Stage 2 Audit and Certification Decision
A comprehensive audit of your organization will be conducted against the relevant standards. This audit will identify strengths and weaknesses, helping you enhance your systems. Once any deficiencies have been addressed, a certification recommendation will be made and reviewed by ISMC for final approval.
7. Surveillance Audit
Surveillance audits are conducted at regular intervals (up to 12 months) to ensure your management system continues to meet the selected certification standards.
8. Re-Certification Audit
Recertification audits are conducted every three years to confirm that your management system remains effective, relevant, and compliant with the standards. These audits assess the continuous performance and inter-process effectiveness of your systems.
9. Certification Outcome
Based on the results of surveillance and recertification audits, ISMC will review and recommend whether your certification should be renewed, withheld, or suspended. You will be notified of the final decision once this process is completed.