QMS and EMS IAF Code Recognition (Extension and Reduction)

The list of scopes of accreditation is based on the technical clusters and critical codes per IAF MD 17: Witnessing Activities for the Accreditation of Management Systems Certification Bodies.

Each accredited CB may have a number of QMS and EMS IAF Codes recognized once they have provided evidence of possessing the competence required. Code recognition may be extended upon submission of a scope extension request and may also be reduced pending the circumstances.

Applicants and accredited CBs seeking extension of the scope accreditation are required to submit one application for each QMS/EMS IAF code. Following receipt of the application information, a review of the information will be performed and witness audit activity may be recommended based on the general rules applicable to QMS and EMS schemes outlined in IAF MD 17: Witnessing Activities for the Accreditation of Management Systems Certification Bodies.

When applying for accreditation, the CB must specify a minimum of one QMS and/or EMS IAF code for recognition for accreditation programs which are quality based.

Once the CB is accredited, the CB may apply for scope extension to add one or more QMS and/or EMS IAF codes to their scope of accreditation.

During annual surveillance activities, the assessment team will review the competence of auditors for recognized QMS/EMS IAF codes, and review the technical expertise for recognized codes at the reviewer and policy levels. The assessors will provide information in the accreditation report confirming the scope of accreditation or a recommendation related to the scope.