Chapter 05 · Standards & assuranceConformity Assessment, Certification & Assurance
Accreditation body
Definition
An accreditation body is an organisation that assesses and recognises the competence of conformity assessment bodies against specified standards.
References
This reference provides supporting context for how “Accreditation body” is defined and used.
Overview
What it means in practice
Accreditation body should be read as a conformity-assessment term. Its practical meaning depends on the requirement being assessed, the competence claim and the decision that relies on it.
In practice, users should state the boundary, actor, evidence source and decision context. That keeps accreditation body clear enough for review without overstating what is known.
Why it matters
Accreditation body matters because assurance and certification language can influence trust in evidence. Clear wording helps readers understand who assessed what, against which criteria, and with what level of independence.
Common misconception
A common error is to treat Accreditation body as a guarantee of quality. The stronger approach is to state the criteria, assessor, accreditation status and limits of the assessment.
Review questions
Who is using the term, and for what decision? What source or evidence supports it? What boundary, role or limitation should be stated so the reader does not overread the claim?
How it is used
In professional practice, “Accreditation body” helps standard setters, scheme owners, certification bodies, auditors and organisations seeking assurance describe or assess an organisation that assesses and recognises the competence of conformity assessment bodies against specified standards. It is commonly encountered in standards, certification, conformity assessment, audits, controls and assurance engagements.
A credible application identifies the named standard or scheme, version, scope, criteria, assurance level and competent decision-maker.