This is how certification, verification and nonconformities work

How does certification and verification work?

At Control Union, we believe that reliable certification contributes to sustainability, quality and transparency within your organisation, the chain and the sector. Whether you are active in agriculture, textiles, energy or another sector, our certification process helps you to demonstrate compliance with international norms and standards.

What is the difference between certification and verification?

Although the process is similar, there is an important difference between certification and verification. Both start with an application and both processes involve an audit (or pre-audit). But the end product is different:

Verification provides you with an overview of the current state of affairs. We also offer customised verification, so you get what you need, not necessarily according to a standard. Verification can be a one-off or periodic process.
The result of a certification process is a certificate that meets the (legal) requirements of that certificate, which are set by the certification programme. Certificates vary in validity, but most certificates require yearly audits for a valid certificate.

Global certification and verification process

Application and preparation

The certification process starts with your application. Upon receipt, we will contact you to discuss your organisation’s wishes and needs. We will then determine together which norms and standards apply. Based on this, you will receive a tailor-made proposal, including the costs and time schedule.

Preliminary investigation (optional)

Before the official audit, a pre-audit can be carried out. This optional step helps to identify any bottlenecks and offers the opportunity to implement improvements before the actual assessment takes place.

The audit

Our auditors visit the location and/or assess documentation, depending on the type of certification. During this audit, we assess whether the processes, systems and products meet the requirements. Transparency and objectivity are key here. We may take samples of products during the audit.

Assessment and certification

After the audit, the report is assessed internally. If all conditions are met, your organisation will receive the official certificate. This confirms compliance with the chosen standard and is often essential within supply chains.

Continuous monitoring

Certification is not a one-off action. Annual audits and reassessments ensure that your organisation continues to comply with the standard. For verification, we will discuss a timeframe.

We are happy to guide you through this continuous process with practical support and clear communication. Control Union acts as your certification partner, keeping you informed of changes in regulations and helping you identify any additional certification needs your organisation may have.

How does Control Union deal with non-conformities?

As a certification body, we look for conformity during audits, but sometimes we also find non-conformities. These are findings that do not comply with the requirements, and they must be addressed. These non-conformities are classified according to their severity and divided into minors and mayors. It is essential that such non-conformities be corrected before a certificate can be issued or renewed.

It is important to note that inspectors cannot advise on how these non-conformities should be resolved. This would compromise our impartiality. As a certification partner, we do explain the standards again and then reassess the solutions that have been implemented.

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