Operational Control
The following sets out how we apply operational control to different entities associated with our certification body.
1. Branch Offices
A branch office is:
- A location owned or directly controlled by Assurco.
- Operating under the same legal entity.
- Delivering certification activities (e.g., audit planning, auditing, report review) on behalf of the certification body.
Control:
We ensure the branch follows the same procedures, competence controls, impartiality safeguards, and documentation as the main office, and remain fully responsible for its actions.
2. Partnerships
A partnership refers to:
- A formal or informal collaborative arrangement between Assurco and another organisation.
- The partner may support delivery of certification activities but typically has some operational independence.
Control: Partnerships create heightened risk because the partner is not fully internal.
Assurco defines how it controls partner processes, competence, impartiality, reporting, and access to records.
3. Agents
An agent is:
- An individual or organisation acting on behalf of the certification body.
- Typically involved in tasks such as marketing, client acquisition, or administrative coordination.
- In some cases, agents may perform parts of the certification workflow (e.g., application review) depending on the arrangement.
Control:
Agents are external to Assurco and therefore pose risks to impartiality and consistency.
Assurco controls Agent activities and ensures they do not compromise the certification process (e.g., by promising easier certification).
4. Franchisees
A franchisee is:
- An independent business authorised to operate under the certification body’s brand, rules, and system.
- Typically granted use of the CB’s name, processes, methodologies, and market positioning.
Control:
Despite the franchisee being a separate legal entity, Assurco retains full responsibility for:
- Their competence
- Impartiality
- Audit performance
- Control of documentation
- Adherence to all requirements of ISO 17021‑1