IAF updates

IAF Mandatory Document 28 Drives Upload of Over 2.5 Million Certifications

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Nigel Johnston
Technical Administrator, IAF CertSearch
CEO, Quality Trade

The IAF CertSearch database, created by the International Accreditation Forum (IAF) and its members, is a pivotal tool for businesses and regulators. It enables efficient verification of suppliers and their locations holding valid accredited certifications across global supply chains. The platform also provides real-time alerts for any changes in certification status, helping organizations manage supply chain risks effectively.

The database has been enthusiastically embraced by industries and regulators, with over 65,000 users creating accounts to access its capabilities.

The Role of Mandatory Document 28

Implemented by IAF members, Mandatory Document 28 (MD 28) requires certification bodies to upload their certification information and accreditation bodies to upload accreditation data globally. This ensures the database serves as a reliable and efficient resource to:

  • Verify accredited management system (MS) certifications worldwide.
  • Combat counterfeit certifications and the misuse of IAF, accreditation body, and certification body brands.
  • Provide valuable market analytics and intelligence for the sector.

Since its publication in October 2023, MD 28 has led to an impressive increase in certifications uploaded to the database. Over the 12-month transition period, more than 1.4 million certifications were added, bringing the total to over 2.55 million certifications in the database.

Currently, 2,335 certification bodies are actively participating and uploading their certifications. A full list of participating certification bodies is available here.

Introducing Subscription Plans

With the MD 28 transition period complete, IAF CertSearch has introduced a range of subscription plans designed for small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), corporations, and regulators.

Subscribers gain access to enhanced features, including:

  • Watch Lists: Monitor certifications and receive real-time alerts for status changes.
  • Bulk Verification: Verify multiple certifications at once using the file upload feature.
  • Free Trial: New users can explore the platform’s value with a 14-day free trial.

API Service Launch

IAF’s technical partner, Quality Trade, has launched the application programming interface (API) service, enabling seamless integration of the global certificate database into existing enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems. Businesses can integrate this data into procurement, quality management system (QMS), environmental, social and governance (ESG), cybersecurity, and customer relationship management (CRM) software for enhanced efficiency.

The API provides real-time access to certification information, ensuring organizations have up-to-date data on their vendors and customers directly within their existing systems. Interested parties can contact info@iafcertsearch.org for more information.

      Why Choose IAF CertSearch?

      IAF CertSearch is the global best practice for efficiently and reliably verifying accredited certifications. Its features:

      • Reduce supply chain risks.
      • Improve transparency and governance across supply chains.
      • Enable users to build certified supply chains, enhancing trust and accountability in global trade.

      With over 2.5 million certifications and growing, IAF CertSearch is redefining how organizations manage and verify certifications in real time.

      Categories: IAF updates