Accredited Management System Process Details
Accredited Management System Process
An accredited management system process involves establishing and maintaining a management system that complies with international standards and is accredited by a recognized accreditation body. Accreditation ensures that the management system conforms to specific criteria and is assessed by competent and impartial auditors.
The process involves several key steps:
1. Selecting the Relevant Standard: Choose the appropriate international standard that aligns with your organization's goals and objectives. Common standards include ISO 9001 (quality management), ISO 14001 (environmental management), ISO 27001 (information security management), and more.
2. Understanding the Standard: Familiarize yourself with the requirements of the chosen standard. Understand its principles, guidelines, and specific criteria that your organization needs to meet.
3. Preparation and Planning:
o Identify the scope of your management system (which areas or processes it will cover).
o Assign responsibilities for implementing and managing the system.
o Develop a project plan that outlines key milestones and timelines.
4. Documenting the System:
o Create or update documents and procedures as required by the standard.
o Develop policies, processes, work instructions, and any necessary forms.
5. Implementation:
o Roll out the documented management system throughout your organization.
o Train employees on the new processes and their roles within the system.
6. Internal Audits:
o Conduct internal audits to assess the effectiveness of the management system.
o Identify areas for improvement and corrective actions.
7. Management Review:
o Hold regular management review meetings to evaluate the performance of the management system.
o Review audit findings, corrective actions, and the overall effectiveness of the system.
8. Selecting an Accreditation Body:
o Research and choose a reputable and accredited certification body (also called an accredited registrar) that is recognized in your industry and region.
9. Accreditation Application:
o Submit an application to the chosen accreditation body.
o Provide relevant information about your organization, your management system, and your readiness for an assessment.
10. Initial Assessment:
o The accreditation body conducts an initial assessment to evaluate your management system's readiness for certification.
o This assessment may include document review and an on-site visit to verify processes.
11. Correction and Continual Improvement:
o Address any findings or non-conformities identified during the initial assessment.
o Continuously improve your management system based on feedback and audit results.
12. Final Assessment (Certification Audit):
o Once any non-conformities are resolved, the accreditation body conducts a certification audit.
o This audit verifies that your management system meets the standard's requirements.
13. Accreditation Decision:
o The accreditation body reviews the audit results and decides whether to grant accreditation.
o If successful, your organization receives an accredited management system certificate.
14. Ongoing Compliance and Surveillance Audits:
o Maintain compliance with the standard's requirements.
o Undergo periodic surveillance audits to ensure the continued effectiveness of your management system.
An accredited management system demonstrates your commitment to best practices, quality, and continuous improvement. It enhances your organization's credibility and market reputation while contributing to operational efficiency and customer satisfaction.