Dominican accreditation body expands international recognition for management system certification
The Dominican Accreditation Body (ODAC) adds a newly recognized scope under a global agreement. Local companies may gain more credibility when competing abroad.
Key points
- ODAC added management system certification scope to Global ACI's MRA.
- The scope covers the ISO/IEC 17021-1 standard.
- ODAC is a full member and signatory of the multilateral agreement.
- The recognition was received at Global ACI's General Assembly in Panama.
The Dominican Republic is expanding its international recognition in quality assurance. The Dominican Accreditation Body (ODAC) has added its management system certification accreditation scope to the Multilateral Recognition Arrangement (MRA) of Global Accreditation Cooperation Incorporated (Global ACI), of which ODAC is a full member and signatory.
The new scope covers the ISO/IEC 17021-1 standard, which sets requirements for bodies that audit and certify management systems. According to the institution, its inclusion in the agreement strengthens confidence in the technical competence of accredited bodies in the country.
The milestone adds to ODAC's existing recognition for the accreditation of testing and calibration laboratories and inspection bodies, which are also part of Global ACI's MRA.
The recognition was received during Global ACI's General Assembly, held in Panama. ODAC's executive director, Ángel David Taveras Difo, stressed the importance of continuing to strengthen the international profile of Dominican accreditations as part of efforts to build a culture of quality.
According to ODAC, the move is meant to lend more credibility to certifications issued by accredited bodies. This lets companies show clients and trading partners that they meet the relevant standards, both at home and abroad.
Why it matters
Management system certifications issued by accredited bodies could be more widely accepted in other markets, which may open trade opportunities for Dominican companies and reduce technical barriers, subject to applicable requirements.