IOAS has been providing international accreditation under ISO/IEC 17011 for more than 27 years. With a global outlook, our diverse team consists of 50+ members located across 15 countries.   

We have broadened our scope over the years to accredit a range of organic and sustainable sectors, including sustainable agriculture, organic textiles, textile and plastics recycling, organic and natural cosmetics, animal welfare, sustainable fisheries, and fair trade. We currently engage with over 75 certification bodies across five continents. 

Collaborating closely with both private standard setters and regulators, we offer best-practice assurance to certification bodies in making our own decisions and issuing a formal accreditation certificate. Based on the IOAS decision, the scheme owner formalizes recognition of CB competence to operate their scheme by issuing a contract.  

Our accreditation process adheres to international norms and is detailed in the IOAS Policies and Procedures, available in the client area of our website. A comprehensive guide to IOAS accreditation is provided in our General Operating Manual, while specific requirements for each scheme are outlined in individual scheme Operating Manuals. 

Once accredited, the certification body (CB) undergoes ongoing annual surveillance and a 5-year reassessment cycle. The annual surveillance process is guided by scheme owner rules and our risk policy. At a minimum, CBs have on-site visits every other year, with additional remote visits possible in cases of strong performance and if permitted by the scheme.   

Our integrated assessments and optimized Assessment System enhance efficiency and reduce costs, ensuring value for our clients.  

Choose IOAS as your accreditation body for customer focus, understanding, knowledge and advantage.