Inspection Bodies

Inspection and Accreditation under ISO/IEC 17020

Understanding Inspection

Inspection, as defined by ISO/IEC 17000, refers to the examination of a product, process, service, installation, or their design. This examination determines conformity to specific requirements or, based on professional judgment, to general requirements. Organizations known as Inspection Bodies carry out these evaluations on behalf of:

  • - Private clients
  • - Their parent organizations
  • - Authorities, including regulatory bodies

The primary goal of inspection is to provide clients with critical information regarding whether the inspected items meet required specifications. These specifications may be outlined in regulations, standards, inspection schemes, or contracts. Clients use inspection outcomes to assess compliance with criteria such as quality, safety, and fitness for purpose.

Accreditation of Inspection Bodies (ISO/IEC 17020)

Accreditation under ISO/IEC 17020 ensures that organizations performing inspections operate impartially and consistently, meeting high standards of competence and reliability.

CADAC Accreditation

CADAC Accreditation is available to organizations performing inspections, surveys, and risk assessments in diverse sectors:

Engineering Inspection

  • Pressure systems
  • Lifting equipment and hoists
  • Electrical installations
  • Power presses
  • Local exhaust ventilation
  • Cargo/pre-shipment inspection
  • Boiler and pressure vessel manufacturing
  • Welding inspections
  • Oil and gas metering

Building and Construction

  • Construction materials and products

Food Inspection

  • Food safety and hygiene
  • Manufacturing and processing practices
  • Cargo inspection
  • Animal welfare
  • Food labeling

Specialized Areas

  • Asbestos surveys
  • Legionella risk assessments
  • Health and social care (e.g., care home inspections)
  • Nuclear new build inspection
  • Fire protection systems
  • Crime scene examination
  • Railway competence evaluations

Environmental and Plant Health

  • Plant health inspections
  • Environmental technology verification

Organizations offering inspection services and seeking CADAC accreditation must comply with ISO/IEC 17020, the standard defining requirements for the operation of various types of bodies performing inspections. Accreditation under this framework enhances confidence in the accuracy, impartiality, and credibility of inspection services across industries.