What Is a Standard?
A standard sets out documented requirements, specifications or guidance for a defined subject. Standards can provide a common reference for assessing how a product, service, process or management system is designed or operated. The relevant requirements depend on the particular standard and the purpose for which it is used.
A Brief History of ISO
In 1946, delegates from 25 countries met in London to discuss international standardisation. The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) officially came into existence on 23 February 1947. It develops and publishes international standards across a wide range of fields.
Developing a standard, assessing conformity with its requirements and accrediting an assessment body are different activities. ISO develops standards; certification is carried out by certification bodies, while accreditation evaluates such bodies for defined activities.
Our Assessment Schemes
LLOYDS RESEARCH COMPANY LTD develops documented assessment schemes for specified subjects and activities. Depending on the scheme, the subject may be a person, organisation, product, service, process or facility.
Where appropriate, a scheme uses relevant published standards or other recognised requirements as reference sources. It may also include additional checks tailored to the subject being assessed.
Each scheme identifies the subject and, where relevant, the activity or location covered. It also specifies the applicable criteria and their version, the evidence required, the assessment method and the rules used to reach a decision.
Additional checks vary by scheme. Depending on the subject, they may address matters such as the reliability of records, operational controls, staff competence, product or service characteristics, safety arrangements or the handling of user feedback. The checks actually applied are defined in the relevant scheme.
How an Assessment Is Carried Out
The process begins by identifying the applicant, the subject of the assessment and the applicable scheme. The required documents and evidence are then collected and reviewed. Depending on the scheme, the assessment may also involve interviews, observation, review of test results or a site visit.
Findings are recorded and any required corrective actions are reviewed before a decision is made. Where work is completed in stages, an assessment plan sets out the activities and timetable; it may be presented as a Gantt chart.
Validity and Follow-Up
The validity period, any follow-up review, renewal requirements and circumstances for suspension or withdrawal are defined by the applicable scheme. These conditions are not assumed to be the same for every type of assessment or issued document.