Refusal of Certification

Certification Decision Criteria and Process

Introduction

Infinity Quality Company is committed to maintaining the integrity and credibility of its certification services. Certification may be refused when an organization does not meet the requirements of the applicable standard or when there are other legitimate grounds preventing the granting of certification.

Grounds for Refusal of Certification

Major Nonconformities

Definition: Absence or complete breakdown of a system to address a standard requirement, or any nonconformity that puts the integrity of the management system in doubt.

Examples:

  • Complete absence of a required documented procedure or process
  • Failure to address a fundamental requirement of the standard
  • Systematic failure to implement key processes
  • Evidence of intentional misrepresentation or fraud
Decision: Certification cannot be granted until major nonconformities are effectively addressed and verified through follow-up audit.
Unresolved Minor Nonconformities

Definition: While minor nonconformities alone may not prevent certification, failure to provide acceptable corrective action plans may result in refusal.

Factors Considered:

  • Number and pattern of minor nonconformities
  • Adequacy of proposed corrective actions
  • Timeline for resolution
  • Commitment demonstrated by management
Insufficient System Implementation

Criteria:

  • Management system not fully operational across all applicable areas
  • Inadequate evidence of system effectiveness
  • Insufficient time period of system operation
  • Incomplete internal audit cycle
  • Management review not covering all required elements
Lack of Cooperation

Refusal may occur if the organization:

  • Denies access to facilities, personnel, or records
  • Fails to provide necessary information or documentation
  • Obstructs or interferes with audit activities
  • Does not provide adequate audit resources (meeting rooms, access, etc.)
  • Refuses to address identified nonconformities
Regulatory or Legal Issues

Certification may be refused due to:

  • Ongoing legal proceedings affecting certification scope
  • Regulatory non-compliance or enforcement actions
  • Suspension or restriction of operating licenses
  • Court orders or regulatory directives
Financial Obligations

Outstanding financial matters:

  • Non-payment of certification fees
  • Outstanding balances from previous services
  • Failure to accept financial terms and conditions
Threats to Impartiality

Certification refused if:

  • Unmanageable conflicts of interest exist
  • Previous relationships compromise impartiality
  • Financial or commercial interests affect objectivity
  • Pressure or undue influence cannot be mitigated

Decision-Making Process

Audit Completion

Audit team completes assessment and documents findings

Technical Review

Independent technical reviewer evaluates audit findings and evidence

Certification Committee

Impartial committee reviews all evidence and makes certification decision

Written Notification

Client informed in writing of decision with clear reasoning

Notification of Refusal

When certification is refused, the organization will receive:

Formal Written Notice
  • Official notification letter
  • Clear statement of decision
  • Effective date of decision
Detailed Explanation
  • Specific reasons for refusal
  • Reference to nonconformities or issues
  • Supporting evidence and documentation

Options Following Refusal

Reapplication

The organization may:

  • Address identified issues and nonconformities
  • Implement necessary improvements
  • Reapply for certification when ready
  • Schedule new audit after appropriate time period
Note: Sufficient time must be allowed for effective implementation of corrective actions.
Appeal Process

Organizations have the right to:

  • Submit formal appeal within 30 days
  • Present additional evidence or information
  • Request impartial review of decision
  • Escalate through appeal levels if needed
See Appeals Process for detailed information.

Path Forward After Refusal

Steps to Address Refusal
  1. Review Decision Letter: Carefully review all reasons for refusal
  2. Gap Analysis: Conduct thorough analysis of issues identified
  3. Action Plan: Develop comprehensive corrective action plan
  4. Implementation: Execute improvements and system enhancements
  5. Verification: Verify effectiveness through internal audits
  6. Evidence Collection: Gather evidence of effective resolution
  7. Reapplication: Contact Infinity Quality Company to discuss reapplication

Time Frames and Considerations

Minimum Waiting Period

Typically 3-6 months depending on issues

Implementation Time

Allow adequate time for system improvements

Evidence Period

Demonstrate sustained effectiveness

Commitment to Fair Treatment

Infinity Quality Company ensures that:

  • All refusal decisions are based on objective evidence and standard requirements
  • Decision-making is impartial and free from commercial pressure
  • Organizations are given clear explanation and opportunity to address issues
  • Appeal rights are clearly communicated and accessible
  • Professional and respectful treatment is maintained throughout the process

"Our goal is not to refuse certification, but to ensure that certified organizations genuinely meet standard requirements and can be trusted by the market."

Questions About Certification Decisions?

Contact our Certification Department: certification@infinitycert.com.sa