Parties & Scope
This agreement is between AXIOS (the certification body) and the applicant organization (the client) for audit and certification of the client's management system within the agreed scope.
AXIOS Obligations
AXIOS shall provide certification services impartially and competently, in accordance with ISO/IEC 17021-1:2015 and the requirements of its accreditation; assign qualified audit teams; make certification decisions based on objective evidence; and protect the confidentiality of client information.
Client Obligations
The client shall comply with the Rules Governing Certification, provide accurate information, grant the access required for audits, implement corrective actions within agreed timeframes, and use certificates and marks correctly.
Audit Process & Access
The client shall facilitate Stage 1 and Stage 2 audits, surveillance, and recertification, including access to sites, records, and personnel, and the presence of observers or accreditation body witnesses where required.
Fees
Fees are set out in the certification proposal. Certification activities are subject to settlement of applicable fees; non-payment may affect maintenance of certification.
Certificate Ownership & Use
Certificates remain the property of AXIOS. The client is granted the right to use them only within the certified scope and in accordance with the mark usage rules.
Suspension, Withdrawal & Appeals
AXIOS may suspend, withdraw, or reduce the scope of certification as described in the Rules Governing Certification. The client may appeal any certification decision through the Appeals & Complaints process.
Liability & Confidentiality
The parties' liabilities are limited as set out in the full agreement. Both parties protect confidential information exchanged during the engagement.
Term & Termination
The agreement remains in effect for the certification cycle and may be terminated in accordance with its terms. Upon termination, the client ceases use of all certificates and marks.
Governing Law
The agreement is governed by the applicable laws stated in the full agreement document issued with the proposal.