Understanding Standards and Certification

Standards and their associated certifications form a large part of a business’ job of demonstrating that their product or service is safe to use. We’ll explain what both are in greater detail, and where you can get help to meet and then implement them within your business.

What Are Standards?

A standard is generally agreed as being a voluntary document that contains the specific and technical criteria about a product or service. The knowledge within each individual document is developed in conjunction with experts in that specific field. The aim of a standard is to ensure that the specific product or service is consistent, safe and reliable.

There are three different types of standards:

• International standards – ISO standards are the most common international versions and are most likely to be adopted by an individual country for usage.
• Regional standards – a specific region, such as the European Union, develop a standard for use in their area.
• National standards – a country’s national standards body such as Standards New Zealand, create standards for local usage.

Standards on their own are voluntary, however they can be added to legislation and this is when they become compulsory. A business can choose to implement their associated voluntary standards too, which helps to demonstrate their commitment and professionality within their industry.

For assistance in identifying both voluntary and compulsory standards associated with your business, use our Find an Advisor tool to identify your local business advisor who can assist you with this.

What Are Certifications?

Certifications are specific tests completed by an accredited third party upon a product or service. The certification is based upon the specific standard, either voluntary or compulsory, which is being accessed. By having your product, service or system certified, you add credibility to your business and demonstrate that you meet the necessary requirements within your industry.

To achieve a certification, you first need to believe that your business has meet the specific standards. Then you must find an accredited laboratory to certify your product, or an accredited certification body for your service or system. Once you have achieved the certification, your business then needs to maintain the same standards, and this is also where your local business advisor can help.

At Business Link Pacific, we can connect you to a local business advisor with the skills and experience necessary to help you with both the standards and certification processes. Connect with us today and help your business prepare for tomorrow.