Mutual recognition arrangements help reduce duplicate assessment and support wider acceptance of accredited conformity assessment results.
Purpose
A mutual recognition arrangement is intended to support confidence between accreditation bodies and promote acceptance of accredited reports, certificates, and inspection results across participating economies and sectors.
- Supports international confidence in accredited services.
- Helps customers and regulators understand recognized accreditation.
- Encourages consistent application of international accreditation requirements.
How recognition works
Recognition is based on evaluation of an accreditation body against applicable international requirements and peer evaluation processes. Recognition status can depend on scope, program, and current arrangement rules.
- Recognition applies only within the accepted scope.
- Users should verify current recognition status and scope before relying on claims.
- Accredited bodies should reference recognition accurately and only when applicable.
Using accredited results
Organizations using accredited results should check the accreditation body, accredited organization, certificate status, scope, location, and the specific activity covered.
- Confirm that the result falls within the accredited scope.
- Check current certificate and recognition information.
- Contact IACA for clarification where recognition or scope is unclear.
Applications and contact
Organizations seeking accreditation should review the current documents in the Center of Documents and contact IACA before submitting an application, so the correct scope, standard, and supporting records can be confirmed.
Email: accreditation@iacaab.org / info@iacaab.org