TS EN ISO/IEC 17021/T1

TS EN ISO/IEC 17021/T1 is the T1 edition of the standard that sets the framework for the competence, consistency, and impartiality of bodies that audit and certify management systems. Its subject is third-party conformity assessment for organizations that issue certification in areas such as quality management, environmental management, and related management system disciplines.

What certification bodies are expected to do

The standard focuses on certification as a third-party conformity assessment activity carried out against management system requirements. A key point is that a certification body does not have to offer certification for every kind of management system; rather, it should operate in a way that preserves competence, consistency, and impartiality in the services it does provide. The text also notes that this activity may in some cases be referred to as registration.

Management system certification in general technical context

In general technical terms, management system certification is a structured audit-based evaluation of an organization’s policies, processes, responsibilities, and controls against a defined management system standard. Quality and environmental management systems are the most familiar examples, but the same certification logic can apply across many sectors. Standards in this area typically address the principles that support reliable certification, including auditor competence, decision-making arrangements, and consistency of assessments.

• Defines certification as a third-party conformity assessment activity.
• Covers principles and requirements for bodies that audit and certify management systems.
• Applies broadly to management system certification, including quality and environmental systems.
• Does not require a certification body to certify every type of management system.
• Recognizes that certification bodies may be private or public organizations.