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GTAF Accreditation Programme

Inspection Bodies
ISO/IEC 17020

Inspection bodies perform examination of products, processes, services, installations or other defined subjects and report objective results. GTAF accreditation focuses on technical competence, impartiality and dependable inspection operations within clearly defined scopes.

Applicable framework: ISO/IEC 17020
Programme Focus

Competence, impartiality and confidence

GTAF’s accreditation approach is designed to provide a structured, evidence-based evaluation of organizations performing conformity assessment activities. The emphasis is on technical competence, impartiality, consistent processes and confidence in results or certification decisions.

Inspection competence

Appropriate technical knowledge, inspection methods and competent personnel for each accredited scope.

Impartial inspection

Controls that protect inspection conclusions from commercial, financial or other conflicts of interest.

Documented methods

Controlled inspection procedures, criteria, records and reporting arrangements.

Reliable results

Traceable evidence, suitable equipment where applicable, and consistent review of inspection findings.

Typical Scope Areas

Define the scope with precision

The accreditation scope should clearly describe the activities, sectors, methods, schemes or technical fields for which competence is demonstrated.

  • Product and equipment inspection
  • Industrial and engineering inspection
  • Process and service inspection
  • Installation and site inspection
What GTAF Looks For

Evidence that supports reliable outcomes

Assessment considers the organization’s documented arrangements and their effective implementation. Depending on the programme and scope, evidence may include:

  • Competent personnel and defined responsibilities
  • Controlled procedures, records and technical methods
  • Suitable facilities, equipment and resources
  • Impartiality and confidentiality controls
  • Quality assurance, monitoring and continual improvement
  • Effective handling of complaints, appeals or feedback where applicable
Accreditation Journey

A clear path from application to surveillance

The detailed sequence is tailored to the programme and requested scope, while maintaining a consistent accreditation decision framework.

01

Scope definition

Scope definition and application review

02

Personnel

Personnel and technical resource evaluation

03

On-site assessment of inspection activities

On-site assessment of inspection activities

04

Corrective action review

Corrective action review

05

Accreditation decision

Accreditation decision and surveillance

Need to Know

Frequently asked questions

Accreditation is granted for a defined scope. The assessment focuses on the competence, impartiality, consistency and effectiveness of the applicant’s activities within that scope.

The programme is structured around ISO/IEC 17020. Applicants should review the applicable GTAF requirements and scheme or programme-specific criteria before applying.

GTAF assessment activities may include document review, interviews, records review, technical evaluation, witnessing and other evidence-based activities appropriate to the requested scope.

Accredited organizations remain subject to the applicable surveillance, reassessment and change-management arrangements so that continued competence and conformity can be maintained.
Ready to begin?

Explore accreditation for your organization.

Review the applicable requirements and submit your accreditation enquiry or application to begin the process.