What is Accreditation?
Accreditation is the process by which formal
recognition of competence is given to qualified organizations,
known as Certification Bodies
(CBs), who are then granted the ability to perform certifications.
Certification of compliance to SA8000 and other verification
codes within the SAAS scope of accreditation is available
only through qualified CBs granted accreditation by SAAS.
Certification bodies need to be accredited
to assure stakeholders that the CBs are able to consistently,
reliably and effectively perform certification audits and
that these audits are carried out in a professional manner.
SAAS sets strict standards and oversight procedures for accreditation
of qualified organizations to certify against SA8000 and other
verification codes within its scope. The accreditation process
by SAAS includes documentation review, site audits and observation
of auditors in the field. SAAS undertakes impartial assessment
and surveillance of CBs to ensure that the SAAS-accredited
certification process is functioning and meets the SAAS criteria.
SAAS maintains a public list of accredited CBs and certified
facilities.
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