Many organizations begin their ISO journey without a clear understanding of the audit nature, leading to unexpected surprises during field visits or recording a large number of non-conformities. This article explains in detail the role of the ISO certification body in Kuwait, audit stages, and how the certificate granting decision is made.

What is meant by the ISO certification body in Kuwait?

The ISO certification body is an independent and accredited entity that evaluates organizations according to the required ISO standard requirements, such as ISO 9001 or ISO 14001 or ISO 45001, and decides whether the organization is qualified to obtain the certificate.

The certification body does not provide consultancy services nor implement the system, but focuses only on auditing and objective assessment.

The difference between the ISO certification body in Kuwait and consultancy offices

One of the most confusing points:

– ISO consultancy offices in Kuwait:

Design the system, supervise implementation, and prepare for auditing.

– ISO certification body in Kuwait:

Conduct external auditing and make granting decisions.

⚠️ Combining both roles is considered a conflict of interest and is unacceptable according to international rules.

Audit stages at the ISO certification body in Kuwait

The audit process goes through several clear and systematic stages:

Stage One: Initial Audit (Stage 1 Audit)

This stage aims to:

1. – Review documents and policies
2. – Ensure organization readiness
3. – Assess application scope
4. – Identify major gaps

Usually, the certificate is not granted at this stage, but it is used to determine the organization’s readiness for the next stage.

Stage Two: Final Audit (Stage 2 Audit)

This is the decisive stage, which includes:

1. – Field visit to the organization
2. – Interviews with management and employees
3. – Review of operational records
4. – Verification of actual implementation of procedures

At this stage, non-conformities are recorded if found.

Types of non-conformity in ISO auditing

Non-conformities are usually classified into:

1️⃣ Major non-conformity

Indicates the absence of an essential element of the system or complete failure in implementation, and must be closed before granting the certificate.

2️⃣ Minor non-conformity

Indicates limited deficiency in implementation and usually does not prevent granting, but requires corrective action.

3️⃣ Improvement observations

Not a non-conformity, but recommendations for system improvement.

How is the ISO granting decision made in Kuwait?

After the audit is completed:

1. The certification body reviews the auditor’s report
2. Major non-conformities are verified to be closed
3. The file is presented to an independent committee within the certification body
4. A granting or rejection decision is issued

This separation between the auditor and the decision committee enhances integrity and impartiality.

ISO certificate validity period

Usually, the ISO certificate is valid for three years, with:

1. – Annual surveillance audit
2. – Re-certification audit before expiry

Non-compliance may lead to suspension or withdrawal of the certificate.

Why choosing an accredited certification body is of utmost importance?

Choosing an unaccredited certification body may lead to:

1. – Certificate rejection in tenders
2. – Lack of international recognition
3. – Financial losses
4. – Damage to institutional reputation

Therefore, ISO certification accreditation in Kuwait is considered an essential element no less important than the certificate itself.

How to verify the accreditation of an ISO certification body?

The accreditation of the certification body can be verified through:

1. – Reviewing the accreditation body name listed on the certificate
2. – Searching international accreditation databases
3. – Verifying the certificate number