Definition of International Accreditation Association (IAF)
The International Accreditation Forum (IAF) is the global association of accreditation assessment bodies. The main task of the International Association for Accreditation (IAF) is to develop a worldwide worldwide compliance assessment program that reduces risk to businesses and customers by ensuring valid certification. Accreditation assures users of the credibility and impartiality of a reputable entity. Conformity assessment is to prove that what is presented actually complies with the requirements specified or claimed in the credentials or certification.
IAF members represent 83 governmental and semi-governmental accreditation bodies and industry associations. The International Accreditation Association (IAF) is composed of members, a board of directors, an executive committee and a secretary. They all work together to achieve the IAF goal and to facilitate their common trade goals around the world. The highest level of power in the IAF is the members of a general assembly.
Purpose of the International Accreditation Association (IAF)
The main goal of the IAF is two steps. The first step is to ensure that members of the IAF accreditation body only approve certification bodies that are certified and are not subject to conflict of interest. Second, the IAF’s second goal is to establish multilateral recognition arrangements (MLAs) between its accreditation body.
Accreditation bodies (ABs) are required to sign Multilateral Recognition (MLA) arrangements that promote the acceptance of goods and services across international borders. The purpose of the MLA is to allow credentials and certifications issued by certification bodies to be recognized by other MLA members. The MLA covers all accreditation bodies; Therefore, it does not need the approval of suppliers in every country that sells its products or services.
Benefits of the International Accreditation Association (IAF)
The IAF ensures that businesses that are purchasing products and services are of high quality through MLA. By requiring accreditation bodies to adhere to the MLA, the IAF reduces the risks to businesses and customers by ensuring that credible certification can be trusted anywhere in the world.
In addition, the Multilateral Recognition (MLA) IAF provides an “international endorsement seal” to demonstrate compliance with agreed standards and requirements. Many government agencies have endorsed MLA support and an effective mechanism for having an international standard system. IAF accreditation bodies, certification bodies, and licensed organizations provide a trusted international business network. Companies, industries and countries will enjoy global economic benefits by removing trade barriers and expanding markets.