Scope
These rules apply to all organizations applying for, holding, or maintaining a management system certificate issued by AXIOS.
Obligations of the Certified Client
The client shall always fulfil the certification requirements, including implementing appropriate changes when these are communicated by AXIOS.
The client shall make all necessary arrangements for the conduct of audits, including access to documentation, records, sites, areas, personnel, and the client's subcontractors.
The client shall keep records of all complaints made known to it relating to compliance with certification requirements and make these available to AXIOS on request.
The client shall claim certification only with respect to the scope for which certification has been granted.
Use of Certificates & Marks
The client shall use its certification only to indicate that its management system conforms to the relevant standard, and shall not use the certificate or marks in any misleading manner.
Upon suspension, withdrawal, or termination of certification, the client shall stop using all certificates and marks and return any certification documents as required.
Changes Affecting Certification
The client shall inform AXIOS, without delay, of matters that may affect the capability of the management system to continue to fulfil certification requirements — including changes to legal, commercial, organizational status or ownership, organization and management, contact address and sites, scope of operations, and major changes to the management system and processes.
Surveillance & Recertification
Certification is maintained through periodic surveillance audits and a recertification audit, normally on a three-year cycle. Failure to permit surveillance may lead to suspension or withdrawal.
Suspension, Withdrawal & Scope Reduction
AXIOS may suspend, withdraw, or reduce the scope of certification where the client persistently or seriously fails to meet certification requirements, does not allow surveillance or recertification, or voluntarily requests it.
Complaints & Appeals
The client and other parties may submit complaints and appeals through the AXIOS Appeals & Complaints process. All submissions are handled confidentially and impartially.
Confidentiality
AXIOS protects all information obtained during certification activities, disclosing only information required by law or permitted for public verification.