Step by Step
Certification Process
Precision, impartiality, and clarity at every step.
It Start with a Simple Step!
Each phase of our review process is meticulously planned to ensure fairness, objectivity, and thoroughness in every certification step.
A Step-by-Step Guide
We follow a structured, transparent, and efficient approach to certification. Our process ensures that your organisation’s management system meets international standards while aligning with your business objectives.
Application Review
Pre-Assessment
Stage 1 Audit
Stage 2 Audit
Certification Decision
Certification Maintenance
Application Review
Kick-off
Your certification journey begins with a thorough review of your application. During this stage, we:
- Define the scope of certification.
- Set the timelines and deliverables.
- Formalise the agreement and appoint a qualified lead auditor to guide you through the process.
Pre-Assessment Readiness
Optional
For organisations seeking additional preparedness, we offer an optional pre-assessment audit to evaluate your management system before the formal audit. This helps:
- Identify potential non-conformities early.
- Ensure your documentation aligns with relevant standards.
- Provide time for corrective actions before the certification audit.
Stage 1 Audit
Preliminary Evaluation
This audit is conducted remotely or onsite and focuses on reviewing:
- Your management system documentation and policies.
- Mandatory compliance with applicable standard requirements.
- Any initial gaps or non-conformities.
- At the end of Stage 1, you’ll receive a detailed audit report outlining any issues and recommendations for improvement before advancing to Stage 2.
Stage 2 Audit
Comprehensive Assessment
The final audit stage takes place onsite and includes:
- An in-depth evaluation of your implemented controls and processes.
- A risk-based assessment of your management system effectiveness.
- A review of corrective actions from Stage 1.
- Upon successful completion of Stage 2, we compile an audit report with the final findings and recommendations.
Decision Process
Certification Decision Process
The RACERT Certification Committee carefully reviews:
- The audit findings from Stage 2.
- Any corrective actions taken.
- Compliance with international accreditation standards.
If all requirements are met, your organisation will receive a Certificate of Compliance, valid for three years.
Certification Maintenance
& Surveillance Audits
Certification is valid for three years, but ongoing compliance is critical. To maintain certification, RACERT conducts:
- Surveillance Audits: Annual risk-based audits in Year 2 and Year 3 to ensure continued effectiveness.
- Re-certification Audit: Conducted before the certification expires to renew your status

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