ISO Accreditation vs Certification: The Key Differences Explained
Introduction
When businesses aim for international standards, the terms
ISO accreditation and ISO certification often pop up. Many people think they are the same. But they’re not — and confusing them could lead to serious mistakes, like getting the wrong type of approval or working with the wrong partner. In this guide, we’ll break it down clearly by explaining what ISO accreditation involves, how ISO certification applies to businesses, and why understanding the difference between the two is important for your company’s success. Let’s get started.What is ISO Accreditation?
ISO accreditation is relevant to the organizations that give out ISO certificates — certification bodies. Accreditation is when a national accreditation body (such as UKAS, ANAB, or NINAS) has reviewed that this certification body is competent and unbiased.
This is significant since it goes a long way in building trust on the certificates issued by the certification body. If a certification body is accredited, you can be sure that its certificates are internationally accepted.
The International Accreditation Forum (IAF) regulates accreditation bodies to promote consistency globally.
Example:
In Nigeria, NINAS certifies certification bodies that issue ISO certificates to organizations. A NINAS-accredited certification body will be more credible in both the domestic and global markets.
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What is ISO Certification?
ISO certification is relevant to your organization. It’s the verification that your organization complies with the terms of a particular ISO standard — like ISO 9001 for quality management or ISO 14001 for environmental management.
ISO certification benefits:
- Demonstrate to customers, regulators, and partners that your business is up to global standards.
- Secure contracts, particularly with large companies or government departments.
- Enhance internal processes and minimize risks.
A certification body (preferably an accredited one) performs an audit of your activities and, if you are up to standard, gives you your ISO certificate.
You can explore more background and history on these standards through ISO’s official site.
ISO Accreditation vs Certification: The Key Differences
Aspect | ISO Accreditation | ISO Certification |
Who it applies to | Certification bodies (organizations that issue certificates) | Businesses, organizations, and sometimes individuals |
Purpose | Demonstrates the certifier is competent and unbiased | Demonstrates the company complies with an ISO standard |
Issued by | National accreditation bodies (e.g., UKAS, ANAB, NINAS) | Accredited or unaccredited certification bodies |
Recognition | Verifies certifier’s worldwide credibility | Verifies business’s conformance to ISO standards |
Examples | UKAS accrediting BSI, NINAS accrediting local certifiers | A factory certified to ISO 9001 or ISO 14001 |
Needed by | Certification bodies | Businesses seeking ISO recognition |
Why Knowing the Difference is Important
It’s simple to confuse these words — but getting it wrong can damage your business:
- You might end up using a certifier that isn’t accredited, only to find that your certificate won’t be accepted in tenders.
- You might mistakenly refer to “ISO accreditation” on your website when you actually mean certification — which can damage your credibility.
- You could spend time and money on certificates that will not assist you in achieving regulatory or client requirements.
That is why Maxicert brings businesses together with accredited certification bodies, so your ISO certification has the trust and recognition that you require.
How to Select the Ideal ISO Partner
Look for Accreditation
- Don’t simply believe in a certifier. Request evidence of accreditation. Find out if the certifier is accredited by an accepted national body (such as UKAS, ANAB, or NINAS).
Pick Experts That Lead You
- It makes a huge difference if you work with the right consultant or partner.
Maxicert assists you:
- In selecting the appropriate ISO standard for your business requirements.
- Get connected with an accredited certification organization.
- Get ready and pass your certification audit successfully.
View our complete ISO certification services.
Find out more about ISO 9001 certification.
Advantages of Certification from an Accredited Organization
When you obtain certification from an accredited certification body, you benefit:
- Global recognition: Your certificate will be recognized everywhere.
- Eligibility for tenders: Most tenders demand certification by accredited agencies.
- Customer trust: Customers have faith in certifications from established sources.
- Improved compliance: Accreditation agencies verify that certifiers adhere to rigorous audit procedures.
Alternatively, employing a non-accredited certifier may:
- Cause your certificate to be rejected in tenders.
- Result in substandard audit quality.
- Cause regulatory inspections to be confused.
Conclusion
Achieving ISO certification is more than just a business formality — it’s a step toward global recognition, stronger trust, and new opportunities. The key is working with the right certification partner.
The bottom line:
ISO accreditation is for certifiers.
ISO certification is for organizations.
Protect your business reputation by choosing the right provider. Maxicert ensures your company is certified through properly accredited bodies, so your certificates earn recognition worldwide.
Call Maxicert today — we’ll guide you through it all, from selecting the correct ISO standard to being certified in confidence.
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FAQ
Can my company obtain ISO accreditation?
No. Accreditation is reserved for certification bodies. Your company should apply for ISO certification.
Is certification by an unaccredited organization acceptable?
Technically, yes — but perhaps not accepted by big clients, regulators, or overseas trade.
Is the cost higher for certification by an accredited body?
It depends on business size and complexity, but certification by an accredited body is worth the extra cost in the long term.
Is there an example of accreditation in action?
A certification organization such as BSI can be accredited by UKAS. If BSI certifies an organization to ISO 9001, the certificate is recognized worldwide since BSI is accredited.
