World Organic Accreditation Board (WOAB)
WORDING OF CERTIFICATES – ISO 17020 Inspection Bodies
Presentation
The purpose of an inspection certificate is to provide documented evidence that an inspection has been performed by a competent inspection body in accordance with the applicable requirements, procedures, and technical standards. A properly issued certificate demonstrates that the inspection activities have been conducted objectively, impartially, and consistently, while maintaining appropriate records and traceability. Such certificates are valuable documents for clients, regulators, purchasers, and other interested parties because they provide confidence that the inspection results are based on established criteria and recognized inspection practices.
The following wording may be used as a general reference for inspection certificates, where appropriate:
“This is a licensed authentication approved for issue by Authorization Administration for Confirming Bodies LLC who have surveyed XXXX against characterized models and in cognisance of ISO 17020:2012 Similarity appraisal — Necessities for the activity of different kinds of bodies performing assessment.”
Note: The terms Conformity Assessment and Conformity Assessment Body are defined within ISO 17000, which provides the vocabulary and general principles used throughout conformity assessment activities. Inspection bodies should ensure that all terminology used within certificates and reports is consistent with the applicable standards and contractual requirements.
Purpose of an Inspection Certificate
Inspection certificates are intended to provide an accurate and impartial record of the inspection performed. They should clearly identify the client, the inspected item or process, the applicable inspection criteria, and the conclusions reached by the inspection body. The certificate should be sufficiently detailed to enable users to understand the scope of the inspection without ambiguity.
An inspection certificate should only be issued after the inspection has been completed, all relevant evidence has been reviewed, and the authorized personnel have approved the findings. Any limitations, exclusions, assumptions, or conditions affecting the inspection should be clearly stated within the certificate.
Endorsement Data
Inspection declarations or examination reports should, as a minimum, include the following information:
- Client name
- Client address
- Applicable appraisal standard(s)
- Initial appraisal date
- Re-confirmation or surveillance date, where applicable
- Date of certificate issue
- Certificate expiry date, where the certification or inspection status is time-limited
- Name and address of the declaration granting body (inspection body)
- Necessary warnings regarding limitations on validity, including requirements for satisfactory performance or surveillance visits
- Official logo of the granting body (inspection body)
- Logo of the authorization body, where applicable
- Additional information required under Clause 7.4, “Inspection Reports and Inspection Certificates,” of ISO 17020:2012
Record Retention
Inspection bodies should maintain records supporting every issued certificate. Such records may include inspection checklists, photographs, measurements, calibration records, correspondence, sampling information, and any corrective actions undertaken. Proper document control ensures traceability and supports future verification if required.
Impartiality and Confidentiality
Inspection activities should be conducted impartially and independently. Personnel involved in inspections should avoid conflicts of interest and maintain confidentiality regarding client information. Information obtained during inspections should only be disclosed where authorized by the client or required by applicable laws or regulations.
Certificate Validity
The validity of an inspection certificate depends upon the scope of inspection, the condition of the inspected item at the time of inspection, and any stated limitations. If surveillance or periodic inspections are required, the certificate should clearly indicate the relevant dates and conditions for maintaining its validity.
Document Control
Each inspection certificate should possess a unique identification number and appropriate revision status. Any amendments, corrections, or reissued certificates should clearly reference the original document to maintain complete traceability.
Conclusion
Inspection certificates are important documents that communicate the outcome of inspection activities in a clear, transparent, and traceable manner. Proper preparation, review, authorization, and record retention contribute to confidence in inspection results and facilitate acceptance by clients and interested parties. Inspection bodies should ensure that every certificate accurately reflects the work performed and contains all information necessary for users to understand the inspection findings and any associated limitations.
UK Head Office
World Organic Accreditation Board (WOAB)
WOAB House
C/O Mr. Garry, 54 Glengarnock Avenue,
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Email: info@ssqiindia1999gmail.com
Website: www.worldorganic.us
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Email: info@ssqiindia1999gmail.com
Website: www.worldorganic.us
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Asaoti, Dist. Palwal
Faridabad, Delhi NCR, Haryana
Tel.: +91-7979801035
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Website: www.worldorganic.us