2 SDAB The Board Framework Accreditation Bodies – Authoritative and Trusted Global Structure

SDAB The Board Framework Accreditation Bodies

SDAB Progress Strategy
ON
The executives Framework Authorization to ISO/IEC STANDARD 17021-1:Latest

This arrangement applies to all SDAB-authorize and candidate the executives framework affirmation bodies (MSCBs) and covers the important stages during the progress cycle from ISO/IEC Standard 17021 to ISO/IEC Standard 17021-1:Latest, Congruity appraisal – Prerequisites for bodies giving review and accreditation of the board frameworks — Section 1: Necessities. This most recent standard was distributed on JULY 16, 2016.

SDAB-authorize and candidate MSCBs are expected to consent to the prerequisites of this approach starting October 2, 2016. This strategy depends on the Worldwide
Certification Discussion (IAF-AB) Goal 2016-10 – Change Period for ISO/IEC 17021-1: Latest which states:

“The Overall Gathering, following up on the suggestion of the Specialized Board, set out to embrace ISO/IEC 17021-1, as a regularizing report. The Overall Get together
additionally concurred that the progress period for the execution of ISO/IEC 17021-1: Latest will be a long time from the date of distribution.”

This SDAB Change Strategy is successful from October 2, 2016. After this date, all SDAB-authorize and candidate MSCBs will be surveyed against ISO/IEC Standard 17021-1 Latest. During the progress time frame, SDAB assessors will distinguish areas of resistance against the new norm and refer to them as Restorative Activity Solicitation (Vehicles). Concerns or Remarks may likewise be refered to against the new norm during archive audit or during on location appraisals. To accomplish or keep
up with certification, candidate and SDAB-authorize MSCBs are expected to determine discoveries in light of ISO/IEC Standard17021-1 no later than June 10, 2016.

Accessibility of Authorization Records
SDAB-certify and candidate MSCBs are expected to get a duplicate of the new worldwide standard which might be bought from the significant standard improvement
association. The standard may likewise be bought through the International standard Book shop: www.sanatanboards.com

Evaluation, Preparing and Documentation Notes
a) Discoveries (Vehicles and Concerns) raised against the 2012 standard prerequisites during evaluations led during the progress time frame require a reaction to SDAB
in no less than 25 days of the evaluation. Discoveries (Vehicles and Concerns) raised against ISO/IEC Standard 17021-1 Latest should be settled by June 10, 2016
[refer to d)].

b) All certify and candidate MSCBs ought to give SDAB overhauled administration framework documentation tending to all new prerequisites of ISO/IEC Standard 17021-1:Latest and return a finished ISO/IEC Standard 17021-1:Lates evaluation agenda, preceding their next appraisal. All licensed and candidate associations will be given this agenda preceding appraisal or upon demand.

c) After June 10, 2016, all administration framework documentation should exhibit consistence with the new 2015 norm to keep up with SDAB authorization

d) MSCBs that poor person exhibited full consistence with ISO/IEC Standard 17021-1: Latest by June 10, 2016, are dependent upon suspension and expulsion of their
authorization endorsement from the SDAB site.

e) All ongoing SDAB license authentications in light of ISO/IEC Standard 17021: will lapse on June 10, 2016.

f) MSCBs showing full consistence with the necessities of ISO/IEC Standard 17021-1: Latest will be given a declaration posting license to the new norm.

g) All SDAB MSCB assessors will be prepared on the new norm preceding leading appraisals.

h) SDAB will plan preparing occasions and on-line online classes on the new norm. If it’s not too much trouble, counsel the SDAB site routinely for preparing dates and settings.

License Rules
The ongoing SDAB License Rules for The executives Framework Accreditation Bodies (MSCBs) will be overhauled to meet the necessities of the new norm.

SDAB Staff Preparing
To work with the change interaction, SDAB staff and assessors will get preparing on the necessities of ISO/IEC Standard 17021-1:Latest . Preparing will likewise remember
direction for the SDAB Change Plan and a nitty gritty outline of ISO/IEC Standard 17021-1:Latest with the goal that assessors will actually want to respond to your inquiries. Assessor preparing will likewise incorporate any new or updated regulatory apparatuses (e.g., structures, agendas, methods, and so on) as required.

Partner and Client Commitment
All on-going correspondence and updates basic to the effective finish of the change to ISO/IEC Standard 17021-1:Latest by certify and candidate MSCBs will be posted on
the SDAB site: www.sanatanboards.com

Contact Data
Additional data can be acquired by reaching Certification Manager, MSCB Program Director, at www.sanatanboards.com

SDAB Transition Policy for Management System Certification Bodies to ISO/IEC 17021-1:2015

Policy Title: SDAB Transition of Accredited Management System Certification Bodies to ISO/IEC 17021-1:2015
Effective Date: October 2, 2016
Reference: International Body Mandatory Document for the Transition to ISO/IEC 17021-1:2015; International Body Resolution 2016-10

1.0 Purpose and Scope

This policy establishes the official framework, requirements, and timeline for the transition of all Management System Certification Bodies (MSCBs) currently accredited or in the process of seeking accreditation by the Sanatan Development Accreditation Board (SDAB) from ISO/IEC 17021:2011 to ISO/IEC 17021-1:2015, Conformity assessment — Requirements for bodies providing audit and certification of management systems — Part 1: Requirements.

The primary objectives are to:

Ensure a consistent, fair, and transparent transition process for all SDAB-accredited and applicant MSCBs.
Maintain the integrity, credibility, and international recognition of SDAB’s accreditation services.
Align with global accreditation community mandates, specifically the International Body Resolution 2016-10, which stipulates a three-year transition period from the publication date of July 16, 2016.
Provide clear guidance, milestones, and consequences to enable MSCBs to achieve compliance within the mandated timeframe.

This policy applies to all organizations holding SDAB accreditation or undergoing the SDAB accreditation process for any management system standard (e.g., ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 45001) as of October 2, 2016.

2.0 Background and Normative References

The publication of ISO/IEC 17021-1:2015 represents a significant evolution in the requirements for certification bodies. It introduces enhanced stipulations for competence, impartiality, risk-based thinking, process management, and the management of certification processes. These changes necessitate updates to the MSCBs’ own management systems, operational procedures, and personnel competence.

SDAB, as a signatory to International Body Multilateral Recognition Arrangements (MLAs), is obligated to implement International Body mandates. International Body Resolution 2016-10 formally adopts ISO/IEC 17021-1:2015 and establishes the transition deadline of July 16, 2019 (three years from publication). SDAB has defined its internal implementation timeline with a final compliance deadline of June 10, 2019, to ensure a managed conclusion before the International Body cutoff.

Key References:

ISO/IEC 17021-1:2015
International Body Resolution 2016-10
International Body MD 21:2016 (Requirements for the Transition to ISO/IEC 17021-1:2015)
Current SDAB Accreditation Rules for MSCBs

3.0 Transition Timeline and Critical Milestones

Date	Milestone / Requirement	Implication for MSCBs
July 16, 2016	Publication of ISO/IEC 17021-1:2015 by ISO.	Transition period officially begins per International Body.
October 2, 2016	Effective date of this SDAB Transition Policy.	All assessments (initial, surveillance, reassessment) will include an evaluation against ISO/IEC 17021-1:2015.
From Oct 2, 2016 to June 10, 2019	Transition Assessment Phase.	SDAB assessors will cite nonconformities (Corrective Action Requests – CARs) or Concerns against the 2015 standard. Findings against the old 2011 standard must still be addressed per standard timelines (e.g., 25 days).
Prior to their next scheduled SDAB assessment	Submission of updated documentation and self-assessment.	MSCBs must submit revised management system documentation and a completed SDAB-provided transition checklist.
June 10, 2019	FINAL COMPLIANCE DEADLINE.	1. All MSCB management system documentation must demonstrate full compliance. 2. All findings (CARs/Concerns) raised against ISO/IEC 17021-1:2015 must be closed. 3. Certificates based on ISO/IEC 17021:2011 will expire.
After June 10, 2019	Post-Transition Phase.	Only certificates referencing ISO/IEC 17021-1:2015 are valid. Non-compliant MSCBs face suspension and withdrawal.

4.0 Detailed Requirements for Management System Certification Bodies (MSCBs)

4.1 Acquisition of the New Standard

Each SDAB-accredited and applicant MSCB is solely responsible for obtaining and understanding the new standard. It can be purchased directly from the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) or its national member body (e.g., ANSI, BSI, DIN). SDAB provides a resource link for convenience: www.sanatanboards.com/standards-store.

4.2 Documentation and Management System Update

MSCBs must comprehensively revise their entire management system to meet the new requirements. This includes, but is not limited to:

Quality Manual: Policies and high-level processes must reflect new requirements on impartiality, risk, competence, and process approach.
Procedures: All operational procedures (application, audit planning, competence evaluation, certification decision, appeals, complaints, etc.) must be updated.
Risk Management Framework: Implementation of a systematic process to identify, analyze, evaluate, and treat risks to impartiality and certification outcomes.
Competence Management System: Enhanced procedures for evaluating, monitoring, and maintaining auditor and certification personnel competence.
Updated submissions to SDAB must be made prior to the MSCB’s next scheduled assessment.

4.3 The Assessment Process During Transition

Dual Standard Assessment: From October 2, 2016, all assessments will evaluate conformance against ISO/IEC 17021-1:2015. Assessments will also verify the effective implementation of the MSCB’s updated system.
Findings: Nonconformities will be raised as Corrective Action Requests (CARs). Observations or potential weaknesses will be raised as Concerns.
- For findings against ISO/IEC 17021:2011: Standard SDAB timescales apply (typically 25 days for response and correction).
- For findings against ISO/IEC 17021-1:2015: The root cause and corrective action must be addressed, with final closure and evidence of effectiveness required no later than June 10, 2019.
Transition Checklist: SDAB will provide a detailed gap analysis/checklist. MSCBs are required to complete this self-assessment and submit it as part of their pre-assessment documentation review.

4.4 Certification and Accreditation Status

New Accreditation Certificates: MSCBs that successfully demonstrate compliance will be issued a new SDAB Accreditation Certificate referencing ISO/IEC 17021-1:2015.
Expiry of Old Certificates: All SDAB accreditation certificates based on ISO/IEC 17021:2011 will become invalid and expire on June 10, 2019.
Consequences of Non-Compliance: Any MSCB that has not demonstrated full compliance by the June 10, 2019, deadline will be subject to SDAB’s formal process for suspension, followed by withdrawal of accreditation. Their status will be removed from the SDAB public directory of accredited bodies.

5.0 SDAB Support Activities

SDAB is committed to supporting a smooth transition for its clients through the following initiatives:

5.1 Assessor and Staff Training

All SDAB technical assessors, lead assessors, and relevant staff will undergo comprehensive training on:

Detailed interpretation of ISO/IEC 17021-1:2015 requirements.
Changes from the 2011 version and key areas of focus.
Updated SDAB assessment procedures, report forms, and checklists.
This ensures consistency and expertise in assessments, and enables assessors to provide constructive feedback to MSCBs.

5.2 Training and Outreach for MSCBs

SDAB will develop and deliver multiple channels of support:

Public Training Workshops: Scheduled events focusing on transition planning, gap analysis, and implementation challenges.
Online Webinars: Accessible sessions covering specific clauses, risk management, and competence.
Resource Portal: The SDAB website (www.sanatanboards.com) will host a dedicated transition page containing:
- This policy and related documents.
- FAQ section.
- Training schedules and registration links.
- Important announcements and updates.
MSCBs are strongly advised to subscribe to website updates and check the portal regularly.

5.3 Update of SDAB Accreditation Rules

The SDAB Accreditation Rules for MSCBs will be revised to incorporate all normative requirements of ISO/IEC 17021-1:2015. The updated rules will be published on the SDAB website, and MSCBs are required to comply with them once effective.

6.0 Roles and Responsibilities

SDAB (The Accreditation Body):
- Develop and communicate a clear transition policy and plan.
- Train and qualify its assessors and staff.
- Conduct assessments against the new standard.
- Update its own rules and documentation.
- Provide support mechanisms (training, webinars, resources).
- Make timely decisions on accreditation status and issue new certificates.
- Enforce the transition deadline, including suspension/withdrawal actions.
Management System Certification Body (MSCB):
- Obtain a copy of ISO/IEC 17021-1:2015.
- Conduct a thorough gap analysis of its management system.
- Develop and execute a detailed transition project plan.
- Revise all necessary documentation and implement changes.
- Train all relevant personnel (management, auditors, technical experts, administrative staff).
- Complete and submit the SDAB transition checklist and updated documentation.
- Address all findings (CARs/Concerns) raised by SDAB within prescribed deadlines.
- Ensure full compliance is demonstrated and verified by June 10, 2019.

7.0 Communication and Contact Information

The primary channel for all official communication regarding this transition will be the SDAB website. MSCBs must not rely solely on direct email communication and must proactively monitor the site for updates.

For specific technical or programmatic inquiries related to the MSCB transition:

Contact: Certification Manager, MSCB Program Director
Via: The contact form on the SDAB website at www.sanatanboards.com/contact-mscb

8.0 Policy Review and Amendment

This SDAB Transition Policy is a controlled document subject to formal review and amendment procedures to ensure its ongoing relevance, accuracy, and alignment with superior requirements from the International Body and evolving best practices in accreditation.

8.1 Review Cycle
The policy shall undergo a formal review by the SDAB Technical Management Board at least annually, or more frequently if triggered by significant events. The primary triggers for review include:

The issuance of new or revised International Body mandatory documents, resolutions, or guidance pertaining to ISO/IEC 17021-1.
Formal feedback or systemic issues identified by SDAB assessors during the transition implementation.
Common challenges or nonconformities raised across multiple Management System Certification Bodies (MSCBs).
The conclusion of the primary transition period (post-June 10, 2019), necessitating a shift to a maintenance-phase policy.

8.2 Amendment Authority and Process
Amendments to this policy may only be authorized by the SDAB Chief Executive Officer, upon the recommendation of the Technical Management Board. Proposed amendments will be drafted to address specific review outcomes or triggers. The draft amendments will undergo an impact assessment to evaluate effects on SDAB operations, assessor activities, and, crucially, on accredited and applicant MSCBs.

8.3 Communication of Amendments
All amendments to this policy will be communicated to affected parties in a timely, clear, and accessible manner. The definitive source for the current, official version of this policy is the SDAB website. The communication protocol for amendments is as follows:

Website Publication: The revised policy document will be published on the dedicated MSCB transition portal of the SDAB website, with the revision date and a summary of key changes clearly indicated.
Notification: A prominent announcement will be posted on the SDAB website homepage and/or the news section to alert stakeholders of the update.
Change Log: A documented change log will be maintained within the policy document or as an accompanying annex, detailing the revision number, date, and nature of changes made.

8.4 Transitional Arrangements for Amendments
Should an amendment introduce new requirements or alter existing deadlines during the active transition period, SDAB will apply reasonable and equitable transitional arrangements. These arrangements will be explicitly stated within the amendment notice and will consider the time needed for MSCBs to implement changes, ensuring fairness and avoiding undue disruption to the established transition timeline to ISO/IEC 17021-1:2015.

8.5 MSCB Responsibility
It is the ongoing responsibility of each accredited and applicant MSCB to monitor the SDAB website for the latest versions of all applicable documents, including this policy. Reliance on outdated versions of the policy does not absolve an MSCB from complying with the current, published requirements.

*This document, the SDAB Transition Policy for Management System Certification Bodies to ISO/IEC 17021-1:2015, supersedes any previous informal communications regarding the transition and constitutes the formal directive for all SDAB-accredited and applicant MSCBs.*

Appendix A (Illustrative): High-Level Gap Analysis Themes (Not Exhaustive)

MSCBs should analyze their systems against these key themes in ISO/IEC 17021-1:2015:

Impartiality: Enhanced requirements for identifying, analyzing, documenting, and mitigating risks to impartiality on an ongoing basis.
Process Approach: Explicit requirement for the certification body to apply a process approach to its own management system.
Risk-Based Thinking: Need to demonstrate how risks (to impartiality, competence, certification outcomes) are determined and addressed.
Competence: More robust requirements for establishing competence criteria, evaluating, monitoring, and documenting personnel competence.
Management of Certification Processes: Refinements in areas like audit planning (including sampling), multi-site management, remote audit techniques, and the certification decision process.
Complaints and Appeals: Strengthened requirements for handling and resolving complaints and appeals.

Branches

SDAB Accreditation

SDAB Head Office

SDAB Sanatan Dharma Accreditation Board
SDAB House
C/O Mr.Garry 54, Glengarnock Avenue,
E-14 3BP Isle Of Dogs, London UK
Tel .: +44-8369083940
email: info@sanatanboards.com
Website: www.sanatanboards.com

MUMBAI Head Office

Sanatan Dharma Accreditation Board (SDAB)
SDAB House
B-401, New Om Kaveri Chs. Ltd., Nagindas pada,
Next To Shiv Sena Office, Nallasopara (E)
Tel .: +91-7499991895
email: info@sanatanboards.com
Website: www.sanatanboards.com

DELHI-NCR Regd. Office

Sanatan Dharma Accreditation Board (SDAB)
SDAB House
Asaoti, Dist Palwal
Faridabad Delhi NCR, Haryana
Tel .: +91-7979801035
Fax: +91-250 2341170
Website: www.sanatanboards.com

sanatanboards