List FAQ RMS
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19 June 2020
37. Once it has been determined that the cause of certificate expiration is related to a COVID-19 issue and the certificate restoration or reinstatement process will be used; should a CB append the certificate number with the [IAF-ID3] indication?
Yes, CBs should initiate a certificate modification and append the certificate number with the [IAF-ID3] indication. This will support customer... -
19 June 2020
36. Does the IAF ID3:2011 six-month certificate extension period noted below apply to AQMS certification? “3 c) Recertification Audits Normally the recertification audit must be completed, and the recertification decision made prior to expiration to avoid loss of certification (ISO/IEC 17021:2011, 9.1.1.2). However, providing that sufficient evidence has been collected as above, to provide confidence that the certified management system is effective consideration may be given to extend the certification for a period not normally exceeding 6 month beyond the original expiry date.”
No. The statement is not applicable for AQMS certifications. There is no alleviation that allows for a six-month extension. -
19 June 2020
35. With regards to stage 2 audits, FAQs #8 & #24 are clear that only 30% may be done remote using ICT. There is nothing that states a certificate cannot be issued and then the remaining audit duration completed later after issue of the certificate.
If the question relates to an initial certification stage 2 audit, there are no alleviations for the initial certification process... -
19 June 2020
34. If a CB generates an initial certification audit file in the OASIS database to support reinstatement of a certificate within 12 months of expiry, is the certified client’s previous audit history deleted once the initial audit is published?
The previous audit history will remain in the OASIS database provided the site OIN does not change and the previously... -
19 June 2020
33. My CB has suspended all audit activities during the COVID-19 crisis. Is my certificate still valid?
The issued certificate remains valid so long as the annual surveillance audit is completed by the end of 2020. If... -
19 June 2020
32. Does the alleviation for a 90-calendar day extension for nonconformity verification also apply to AB issued nonconformities to CBs?
Yes, However, it is a single 90-day extension and not additive at each stage of RCCA processing. -
19 June 2020
31. Can a special audit using ICT be performed for any of the following? ‒a change in scope or the number of sites? ‒in response to a customer request or feedback when an issue has been identified?
There are no additional changes beyond what is in the IAQG OPMT COVID-19 notice. CBs should not add a site... -
19 June 2020
30. If the recertification audit was started prior to certificate expiration and the certification decision occurs within 6 months of the expiration date (i.e., IAF ID 3 – Restoration), can the current certification period be extended beyond the original three-year certification cycle (i.e. no expiration status in OASIS)?
No, the current certification period must not be extended beyond the current three-year certification cycle. If the current certificate expires,... -
19 June 2020
29. Does a CB have to get approval to do any transfer audit off-site?
The published notice states that you must include transfer activities in your plan to the accrediting AB. Please defer to... -
19 June 2020
28. Can a transfer audit (including stage 1 and stage 2) be completed remotely when the certificate is expiring within 12 months?
The Special audit for transfer including “Stage 1” and “Stage 2” can be completed using ICT when the risk of...