Governance & Impartiality.
How NAS maintains independence, transparency, and objectivity in all certification activities
Our Commitment
Our Commitment to Impartiality.
NAS operates as an independent certification body. We understand that impartiality is fundamental to the credibility of our certification scheme. All certification decisions are made objectively, based solely on evidence against defined criteria.
Independent Assessment
Assessors and decision makers operate independently. They are not involved in consultancy, training, or any activity that could compromise objectivity.
Transparent Process
Our assessment criteria and process are clearly defined. Applicant organisations understand what is required and how decisions are made.
Evidence-Based Decisions
All certification decisions are based on documented evidence submitted by the applicant. Personal relationships or commercial factors do not influence outcomes.
Conflict of Interest Management
We identify and manage conflicts of interest. Assessors do not assess organisations with which they have commercial or personal relationships.
Structure
Governance Structure
Separation of Functions
Assessment, decision-making, and certification issuance are performed by different personnel to ensure checks and balances.
Decision Manager Independence
Decision managers review assessments independently. They are not involved in the initial evidence evaluation.
Competence Requirements
Assessors and decision makers meet defined competence criteria. They understand relevant standards and assessment methodologies.
Regular Review
Our governance and impartiality procedures are reviewed regularly to ensure they remain effective and aligned with best practices.
Maintaining Independence
Maintaining Independence.
To preserve impartiality, NAS does not:
- ×Provide consultancy services to help organisations prepare evidence or "pass" assessments
- ×Offer training or coaching as part of the certification process
- ×Provide templates, documents, or implementation support during assessment
- ×Allow commercial relationships to influence certification decisions
Standard Alignment
ISO 17021 Alignment
NAS governance and impartiality practices are aligned with ISO 17021 principles. This international standard for certification bodies requires:
- Demonstrable impartiality in certification activities
- Identification and management of conflicts of interest
- Competent personnel performing assessment and decision-making functions
- Transparent certification processes and criteria