Management System Certification

Our certification process is designed to be transparent, thorough, and value-adding. We ensure impartiality and professionalism at every stage, adhering strictly to ISO/IEC 17021-1 (Conformity assessment – Requirements for bodies providing audit and certification of management systems). 

Philippine International Standards Context (as of 2024)

While the core ISO standards (9001, 14001, 45001, 27001, 22000) are internationally harmonized, their implementation and interpretation often integrate with local statutory and regulatory requirements.

• Philippine Regulations: When applying ISO standards in the Philippines, organizations must ensure their management systems also comply with relevant Philippine laws and regulations.

• Quality: DTI (Department of Trade and Industry) regulations, product-specific PNS (Philippine National Standards).
• Environment: DENR (Department of Environment and Natural Resources) Administrative Orders (e.g., pertaining to waste management, air quality, ECCs).
• OH&S: DOLE (Department of Labor and Employment) Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Standards, RA 11058 (OSH Law).
• Information Security: NPC (National Privacy Commission) rules and regulations implementing the Data Privacy Act of 2012 (RA 10173).
• Food Safety: FDA (Food and Drug Administration) Philippines regulations, DOH (Department of Health) guidelines, DA (Department of Agriculture) regulations for primary production.

• International Alignment: IQS auditors are well-versed in bridging the gap between international best practices (ISO standards) and specific national legal requirements. Our certification helps organizations not only meet global benchmarks but also demonstrate robust compliance within the Philippine context.

  1. Application & Scope Definition:

• You submit an application detailing your organization, desired standard, and scope of certification.
• IQS reviews your application and provides a tailored proposal, defining the audit scope and duration.

2. Stage 1 Audit (Document Review & Readiness Assessment):

• Our auditors review your documented management system (manuals, procedures) to ensure it addresses the chosen standard's requirements.
• An on-site visit may be conducted to assess your readiness for the Stage 2 audit and identify any significant gaps.

3. Stage 2 Audit (On-site Certification Audit):

• This is a comprehensive on-site audit where our auditors evaluate the effective implementation of your management system.
• They interview personnel, observe processes, and review records to verify compliance with the standard and your own documented procedures.
• Non-conformities (if any) are raised.

4. Non-Conformity Closure:

• You are required to address any identified non-conformities by implementing corrective actions within an agreed timeframe. IQS reviews evidence of closure.

5. Certification Decision:

• Once all non-conformities are closed and the audit report is complete, an independent Certification Committee at IQS reviews the audit findings.
• If satisfied, the committee grants certification, and your certificate is issued.

6. Surveillance Audits (Annual):

• To maintain your certification, IQS conducts annual surveillance audits. These shorter audits ensure your management system remains effective and continuously compliant.

7. Re-certification Audit (Every 3 Years):

• Before the three-year validity of your certificate expires, a re-certification audit is conducted to ensure the ongoing suitability and effectiveness of your management system.