EQRM INFORMATION
Impartiality and Independence
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Evidence and decisions
An application, quotation or payment does not guarantee certification. Findings must be evaluated through the applicable process, and an unfavorable outcome must remain possible where the evidence does not support certification. The organization seeking certification remains responsible for operating its management system and addressing findings.
Relationships and conflicts of interest
Relevant interests and relationships should be identified before work is assigned and reconsidered when circumstances change. Examples include previous employment, consultancy, close business relationships and financial interests that could affect an individual’s objectivity or create a reasonable concern about it.
A potential conflict must be assessed and treated before the affected person participates in the relevant activity. Disclosure alone does not establish that a risk has been adequately controlled. Measures may include changing assignments, separating responsibilities or declining work where impartiality cannot be protected.
Certification and implementation advice
Explaining certification requirements or an audit finding is different from designing a client’s management system. Certification activities must preserve that boundary. Public information on this website is general education; it is not a promise that following an example will result in certification.
No consultant, referral partner or commercial intermediary should represent a relationship as providing an easier audit or a guaranteed certification result. Applicants should raise any suggestion of preferential treatment with EQRM before relying on it.
Raising a concern
To raise an impartiality concern, email info@eqrmcert.com. Describe the relevant activity, relationship or statement and provide supporting information where available. Avoid sending unrelated personal or commercially sensitive material.
A concern should receive an assessment appropriate to its substance, with attention to confidentiality and the independence of the people considering it. Where the concern also relates to a certification decision, explain whether you are seeking a review of that decision. See complaints and appeals for the distinction.
RELATED INFORMATION
Accreditation & scope
Certification policies
Complaints & appeals
Certificate & mark use
Editorial policy
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