ANAB Management Systems Certification Body Accreditation – How to Apply
ANAB assesses and accredits certification bodies (CBs) that demonstrate competence to audit and certify organizations in accordance with ANAB accreditation requirements, including ISO/IEC 17021-1 and other program requirements for management system standards.
Accreditation by ANAB, a recognized and respected accreditation body, ensures the impartiality and competence of the CB and fosters confidence and acceptance of the CB’s certifications by end users in the public and private sectors.
For questions or a cost estimate, contact ANAB using the form below.
Requirements for CBs
To apply for ANAB accreditation, CBs must understand ISO/IEC 17021-1 and related IAF Mandatory Documents. While optional, ANAB training can help CBs familiarize themselves with these requirements.
New CBs must follow the application process, starting with base ISO/IEC 17021-1 requirements. Accreditation scope depends on the selected standards/programs. Please determine if the standard/program of interest is standalone (e.g., ISO/IEC 27001) or if it must include accreditation for another standard (e.g., AS9100 requires accreditation for ISO 9001).
The application process is completed online via ANAB’s EQM database. First-time EQM users must register for an account. All submissions, including the ISO/IEC 17021-1 Requirement Matrix, must be in English.
Initial Accreditation Process
An overview of the initial accreditation process is illustrated below:
Once accredited, CBs follow a five-year cycle, including annual office and witness assessments, with full reassessment at cycle end. Additional standards may align with existing cycles.
Application Process
Step 1. Base Requirements
Register or log in to your account on EQM – Management Systems. CBs provide evidence of compliance with ISO/IEC 17021-1 (e.g., legal entity, certification mark, organizational structure) and pay an initial application fee. Payment details are available in EQM.
Step 2. Access to Purchase Applications
Once the base requirements are approved by ANAB, CBs gain access to purchase applications for specific standards/programs. Free PDF application forms for management systems certification bodies accreditation are available for review before purchase.
Step 3. Access to Applications
Upon payment, CBs receive access to download the purchased applications in EQM.
Step 4. Application Information
CBs upload completed application forms and supporting evidence in EQM at their own pace. There are no fees at this stage.
ANAB reviews the submission and assigns a technical reviewer. If acceptable, ANAB schedules initial assessments. If not, CBs may revise and resubmit. ANAB may halt the process if accreditation objectives cannot be met.
ANAB reserves the right to stop the application process at any time if ANAB feels the accreditation objectives cannot be met.
Optional Preliminary Visit
CBs may request a preliminary visit for guidance before or during the application. Contact ANAB for details and costs.
For more information, contact ANAB.