ISO/IEC 17029 Accreditation

Conformity assessment — General principles and requirements for validation and verification bodies

ISO/IEC 17029 is an international standard that outlines general principles and requirements for the competence, impartiality, and consistent operation of bodies performing validation and verification as conformity assessment activities. It ensures that these bodies can reliably confirm whether claims (e.g., statements, declarations, or reports) are plausible for intended future use (validation) or truthfully stated based on evidence (verification).

The standard provides a framework for validation and verification bodies (VVBs) to demonstrate their ability to perform these activities impartially and competently, building trust in assessed claims. It applies to first-party (self-assessment), second-party (by a contracting party), or third-party (independent) activities.

It covers VVBs in any sector, such as environmental claims, sustainability reports, or product declarations, but must be used alongside sector-specific programs (e.g., standards or regulations) that define processes, rules, and competence for validators/verifiers.

ISO/IEC 17029 Accreditation applies to

Validation/Verification Bodies: Independent firms assessing claims in environment, energy, sustainability, or product conformity.

Sectors: Greenhouse gas emissions (e.g., under ISO 14065), corporate sustainability reports, supply chain declarations, or regulatory reporting (e.g., EU MRV for shipping/aviation).

Stakeholders: Governments, regulators, scheme owners (e.g., carbon programs), and clients seeking accredited assurances.

Benefits of ISO/IEC 17029 Accreditation

By conforming to this standard, validation and verification bodies can be confident that they are operating at the highest level of professionalism and integrity, instilling trust in their clients and stakeholders.

Credibility: Enhances trust in VVBs' outputs, vital for regulatory compliance (e.g., EU emissions trading) or voluntary schemes (e.g., carbon footprints).
Consistency: Ensures uniform, risk-based processes across sectors, reducing errors and disputes.
Market Access: Facilitates international recognition via bodies like ASIB aiding trade and sustainability reporting.
Risk Mitigation: Promotes impartiality and competence, protecting against conflicts of interest.

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