Quality System International (QSI) – Certification Rules & Procedures

Introduction

At Quality System International (QSI), we recognize that in today’s highly competitive global marketplace, organizations must demonstrate their commitment to quality, safety, and sustainability. Across diverse industries, from manufacturing to services, it has become essential to provide assurance of product and service quality through internationally recognized management systems.

QSI supports companies in achieving compliance with global standards, including:

• ISO 9001:2015 – Quality Management

• ISO 14001:2015 – Environmental Management

• ISO 22000:2018 – Food Safety Management

• ISO 45001:2018 – Occupational Health & Safety Management

Certification to these standards demonstrates an organization’s credibility, capability, and consistency in delivering customer satisfaction while meeting regulatory and statutory requirements.

Purpose

The purpose of QSI’s certification rules is to outline how we conduct impartial and competent assessments of management systems. Our services ensure that certification is granted and maintained only when an organization demonstrates full compliance with international standards.

Scope of QSI Certification

QSI operates as an independent third-party certification body with the objective of recognizing companies that have effectively implemented and documented verifiable management systems. Our certification services include:

• Preliminary meetings to define the scope of registration and applicable standards

• Independent audits for certification

• Issue of accredited certifications across multiple industry sectors

• Regular surveillance audits to ensure continued compliance

• Re-certification at the end of each cycle

Certification Procedure

1. Enquiry & Fee Quotation

   • Upon receiving an enquiry, QSI provides a detailed questionnaire.

   • Based on the information submitted, a transparent quotation is issued for client approval.

2. Application

   • After acceptance of the quotation and receipt of the application fee, QSI schedules the certification audit in consultation with the client.

3. Extension of Certification

   • When clients require scope extensions (e.g., additional sites, facilities, or services), verification is performed during surveillance or special audits.

Audit Process

1. Stage 1 Audit – Documentation Review

   • QSI reviews the organization’s documentation and management system.

   • Non-conformities are identified, and a corrective action plan is requested.

   • Internal audits, management reviews, and implementation maturity are evaluated.

2. Stage 2 Audit – Certification Assessment

   • Onsite evaluation is conducted to verify compliance with ISO standards.

   • A detailed report is issued, outlining strengths, weaknesses, and non-conformities.

3. Corrective Actions & Follow-Up

   • Clients submit corrective action plans (CAPs).

   • Major non-conformities must be resolved through follow-up audits or evidence submission before certification is granted.

Certification & Validity

• Upon successful completion of audits and corrective actions, QSI issues an Accredited Certificate of Registration.

• Certificates remain valid for three years, subject to compliance confirmed through periodic surveillance audits.

• Certificates are renewed upon satisfactory re-assessment.

Surveillance Audits

• Conducted annually (or more frequently if required).

• Ensure that management systems remain compliant and effective.

• May include two annual audits or more depending on client needs.

Special & Short-Notice Audits

Special audits may be conducted if:

• Significant changes occur within the organization’s management system.

• Transition to revised ISO standards is required.

• Complaints, misuse of certification marks, or non-compliance concerns are reported.

Short-notice audits may be performed to address urgent issues such as regulatory breaches, complaints, or reputational risks.

Suspension, Withdrawal, or Reduction of Certification

Certification may be suspended or withdrawn if:

• Surveillance audits are not conducted on schedule.

• Certification marks are misused or misleading statements are made.

• The organization fails to maintain compliance with ISO standards.