Can an Accreditation Body carry out consecutive assessments using remote techniques? ISO/IEC 17011 states in 7.9.3 The time between consecutive on-site assessments should not exceed 2 years. However, if the accreditation body determines that an on-site assessment is not applicable, it must utilize another assessment technique to achieve the same objective as the on-site assessment being replaced and justify the use of such techniques (e.g., assessment remote).
a) Therefore, the use of the remote technique can be used in consecutive assessments (at the discretion of the AB), subject to justification?
b) Are there any criteria to justify the use of the remote technique by AB?
c) Can the AB justify the use of the remote technique based on criteria specified by the AB in its procedures?
STANDARD: ISO/IEC 17011 · CLAUSE: 7.9.3 · TOPIC: Assessment Program and Accreditation Cycle
Answer:
| Yes, if the accredited IB’s business model is such that they conduct their inspections remotely, then the AB may also conduct their assessments remotely on a regular basis. However, if the accredited inspections are primarily in person, then the technical witnessing must be conducted on site, if at all possible. These scenarios should be outlined in the AB’s procedures. |
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