General Informations

The IRAQ National Accreditation Center (IRNAC) operates with a meticulous and comprehensive approach to handle, evaluate, assess, and finalize the accreditation applications of Conformity Assessment Bodies (CABs), ensuring alignment with both national and international standards.

Purpose:

The core purpose of our procedure is to define the systematic approach IRNAC adopts to manage accreditation applications from CABs. This procedure is not just a guideline but a commitment to uphold the integrity and reliability of the accreditation process, ensuring that every accredited body meets the stringent standards set forth by IRNAC.

It serves to elucidate the processes of pre-assessment, initial assessment, surveillance post-accreditation, and re-assessment, clarifying the obligations of all accredited bodies. It also outlines the protocols for suspension, scope reduction, withdrawal, and scope change of the granted accreditation, whether initiated by the accredited conformity assessment body or necessitated by prevailing conditions.

Scope:

Our procedure encompasses the foundational principles and rules governing preparation, communication, implementation, and reporting processes related to pre-assessment, accreditation assessment, follow-up assessment, accreditation decision, surveillance, and re-assessment for bodies providing conformity assessment services.

It extends to managing partial or complete suspension, scope reduction, withdrawal, lifting of suspension, scope change, and re-application of bodies whose accreditation has been withdrawn, ensuring a seamless and transparent approach in extraordinary circumstances, with priority given to the rules specified in the "IRNAC –P-11 Procedure for the Management of Extraordinary Circumstances Affecting Accredited Bodies."

Definitions:

All definitions pertinent to this procedure are meticulously outlined in the "IRNAC –IN-01 Instructions on Terms and Definitions Used in IRNAC Documentation," ensuring clarity and mutual understanding among all stakeholders involved in the accreditation process.

Application Process:

CABs aspiring for accreditation can access all necessary information and documents on IRNAC's official website or directly from the relevant Accreditation Department. The application process is streamlined and user-friendly, requiring CABs to fill out specific forms related to their area of activity and submit them to IRNAC.

These forms, including the "Application Form," "IRNAC –FR-01 Accreditation Agreement," and "IRNAC–FR-02 CAB'S Authorized Person Notification Form," must be signed by the CAB’s top management or an authorized representative.

Implementation of Accreditation Process at IRNAC

The accreditation process at IRNAC is a structured and systematic journey, meticulously designed to assess and validate the competence and compliance of Conformity Assessment Bodies (CABs) with the established standards. This journey is marked by several pivotal stages, each serving a unique purpose in ensuring the integrity, reliability, and excellence of the accreditation granted.

Stages of Accreditation Process:

The accreditation process at IRNAC unfolds through the following main stages:

1. Application: The starting point where CABs submit their applications along with the necessary documents.
2. Pre-assessment Preparations: A phase of readiness where organizations prepare for the upcoming assessments.
3. Pre-assessment: An optional stage, conducted upon request, to evaluate the applicant body’s preparedness.
4. Accreditation Assessment: A comprehensive evaluation of the applicant body’s compliance with the accreditation standards.
5. Post-assessment Evaluations: Including follow-up assessments to review the corrective actions implemented by the applicant body.
6. Decision: The conclusive stage where a decision is made regarding the accreditation status of the applicant body.
7. Surveillance: Regular monitoring of the accredited body to ensure sustained compliance with the standards.
8. Renewal of Accreditation: Re-evaluation of the accredited body at the end of the accreditation cycle to renew its accreditation status.
9. Transfer: The process of transferring accreditation from one body to another, if applicable.

Assessment Techniques:

Throughout these stages, a combination of the following assessment techniques is employed to ensure a thorough and holistic evaluation:

• Review of documents and records
• On-site assessments, including witness assessment and office assessment
• Review of performance through proficiency tests and inter-laboratory comparisons
• Unplanned visits
• Interviews
• Remote assessments
• Measurement and validation audits

The utilization of these techniques is defined in the relevant sections of our procedure, ensuring clarity and transparency in our approach.

Application Process:

CABs seeking accreditation can access all necessary application information and documents on IRNAC's official website or directly from the relevant Accreditation Department. Specific forms related to the area of activity of CABs must be filled out, signed by the authorized person, and submitted to IRNAC. These forms include the "Application Form," "IRNAC –FR-01 Accreditation Agreement," and "IRNAC–FR-02 CAB'S Authorized Person Notification Form."

The implementation of the accreditation process at IRNAC is a reflection of our commitment to upholding the highest standards of quality and integrity. By providing a clear, comprehensive, and structured approach to accreditation, we ensure that every accredited body operates with unparalleled competence and compliance, contributing to the elevation of quality and excellence in their respective fields.

IRNAC’s procedures and processes are meticulously designed to maintain the highest standards of quality and integrity in accreditation. By providing a clear, comprehensive, and transparent approach to accreditation, IRNAC ensures that every accredited body operates with competence, credibility, and compliance with all relevant standards, contributing to the elevation of quality and excellence in various industries.