Certification Process
Simple, Transparent & Efficient Certification Journey
At American Quality System Registrars LLC (AQSR), we follow a structured and impartial certification process designed to ensure credibility, consistency, and value for our clients. Our certification journey helps organizations demonstrate conformity to international standards while identifying opportunities for continual improvement.
Step 1: Application & Enquiry
The certification process begins when the organization submits an application detailing its business activities, scope, locations, employee strength, and certification requirements.
Activities Include:
- Application review
- Scope determination
- Standard selection
- Certification proposal and quotation
Step 2: Contract Review
AQSR reviews the application to determine audit duration, technical requirements, competence needs, and certification scope.Outcome:
- Audit program established
- Certification agreement finalized
- Audit team assigned
Step 3: Stage 1 Audit (Documentation Review)
The Stage 1 Audit evaluates the organization's readiness for certification and reviews documented information.
Key Areas Reviewed:
- Management system documentation
- Policies and objectives
- Risk assessments
- Legal and compliance requirements
- Internal audits
- Management reviews
Outcome:
- Readiness assessment completed
- Areas requiring attention identified before Stage 2
Step 4: Stage 2 Audit (Certification Audit)
The Stage 2 Audit evaluates the implementation and effectiveness of the management system.
Key Areas Reviewed:
- Employee interviews
- Process verification
- Site inspections
- Review of records and evidence
- Assessment of compliance with standard requirements
Outcome:
- Audit findings documented
- Nonconformities (if any) communicated
Step 5: Corrective Actions
Activities Include:
If nonconformities are identified, the organization submits corrective action plans and supporting evidence for review.
- Root cause analysis
- Corrective action implementation
- Evidence submission
- Verification by AQSR
Step 6: Certification Decision
An independent technical review is conducted to verify audit completeness, impartiality, and compliance with certification requirements.
Outcome:
- Certification approval decision
- Certificate issuance recommendation
Step 7: Certificate Issuance
Upon successful completion of the certification process, AQSR issues the certificate.
Certificate Includes:
- Organization name
- Scope of certification
- Applicable standard
- Certificate number
- Issue and expiry dates
Step 8: Surveillance Audits
To ensure continued compliance and system effectiveness, surveillance audits are conducted periodically during the certification cycle.
Purpose:
- Verify ongoing implementation
- Review improvements
- Confirm continued compliance
Step 9: Recertification Audit
Prior to certificate expiry, a recertification audit is conducted to assess the continued suitability, adequacy, and effectiveness of the management system.
Outcome:
- Renewal of certification for the next certification cycle
Why Choose AQSR?
✔ Independent and impartial certification process
✔ Competent and experienced auditors
✔ Transparent assessment methodology
✔ Globally recognized certification services
✔ Focus on continual improvement and value creation
✔ Professional support throughout the certification journey
Start Your Certification Journey
Whether you are pursuing certification for the first time or transferring from another certification body, AQSR is committed to making the certification process efficient, professional, and value-driven.