Interested organizations begin by submitting a completed Application Form (RC-FR-3-1) with details of their scope, processes, resources, and legal obligations.
The Application Review Team checks completeness, verifies technical competence, determines audit scope, and confirms that Reliable Certification can perform the audit without risk to impartiality.
Once approved, a Certification Agreement (RC-FR-3-2) is signed, outlining scope, responsibilities, and fees.
5.2. Audit Programme
Certification follows a three-year cycle:
Stage 1 Audit → Review readiness and documentation.
Stage 2 Audit → Evaluate full implementation of the management system.
Surveillance Audits → Conducted annually in years 1 and 2 to ensure ongoing compliance.
Recertification Audit → Conducted before the end of year 3 to renew certification.
Audit time is determined as per IAF MD-5 and RC procedures, taking into account size, complexity, sites, and risks.
For multi-site organizations, a sampling programme (RC-SOP-006) is applied to ensure proper coverage.
5.3. Audit Planning
Each audit is planned with clearly defined objectives, scope, and criteria.
A competent audit team is appointed (Lead Auditor, Auditors, Technical Experts, Observers if required) based on qualification and impartiality requirements.
A formal Audit Plan (RC-FR-3-5) is developed, reviewed, and communicated to the client at least 7 days prior to the audit.
5.4. Initial Certification Process
Stage 1 Audit
Review client documentation, site conditions, internal audits, and management review.
Assess preparedness for Stage 2 and identify areas of concern.
Issue a Stage 1 Audit Report (RC-FR-3-4) to the client.
Stage 2 Audit
On-site evaluation of the full management system.
Methods include interviews, observation of processes, and review of records.
Nonconformities are classified as Major (critical) or Minor (less severe).
A detailed Stage 2 Audit Report (RC-FR-3-6) is issued with findings, OFIs (Opportunities for Improvement), and recommendations.
