IAF continues to monitor advice to assess the developments and risks following the outbreak of coronavirus disease (COVID-19).
The situation has led to safety concerns and travel restrictions in relevant economies that are likely to affect accredited conformity assessment activities.
Following the guidance set out in ID3:2011 (IAF Informative Document For Management of Extraordinary Events or Circumstances Affecting ABs, CABs and Certified Organizations), relevant Accreditation Bodies and Certification Bodies have introduced or are introducing alternative arrangements to conduct assessments. This may involve e.g. making arrangements to conduct assessments remotely or rescheduling activities if necessary.
Both ABs and CBs can find the requirements on how to use information and communication technologies to support and maintain the integrity of the audit/assessment process in IAF MD 4 (Mandatory Document for the Use of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) for Auditing/Assessment Purposes).
These measures have been/are being put in place to ensure the health and safety of Accreditation Body and Certification Body staff, as well as to maintain robust accredited certification and ensure certified organizations are served in the best way possible.