GUTcert testing procedures (certification, verification, validation)
All audits offered by GUTcert are conducted according to objective, transparent and proven guidelines. Depending on the type of audit (e.g. management system certification, EEG plant assessments or GHG verification), different processes are bindingly applied. Our audit procedures are clearly summarised here – so you know what steps you need to take to achieve successful certification or approval.
An overview of our audit procedures
The GUTcert certification process is based on a system accredited by the German Accreditation Body (DAkkS). All globally applicable accreditation rules are included, ensuring that your certification is recognised internationally.
Audit preparation
- Compilation of the audit team
- Coordination of the audit programme (procedure, dates, required documents)
Audit implementation Stage 1 (as a document review or on site)
- Review of management system documentation
- Preparation of audit plan for stage 1, if applicable
- On-site audit, if applicable
- Summary of audit findings (stage 1 report)
- Assessment of certification readiness
- Coordination of stage 2 audit
Conducting the Stage 2 audit
- Preparing the Stage 2 audit plan
- On-site auditing of the locations in accordance with the audit programme
- Introductory meeting
- Interviews with managers and employees
- Tour of the premises
- Observation of activities and conditions
- Inspection of documents
- Final meeting
- Summary of the audit findings (Stage 2 report)
- If necessary, clarification of measures to remedy deviations/complaints
Certification decision
- Signature and dispatch of the final audit report
- Issuance and dispatch of the certificate(s)
- Obtaining and evaluating customer feedback
Conclusion
- Signing and sending the final audit report
- Issuing and sending the certificate(s)
- Obtaining and evaluating customer feedback
A detailed explanation of the certification process can be found in AA144_Certification Process.
ISCC and REDcert certification is based on ISO 17065, which sets out the criteria for product certification. We have implemented these requirements for you in document AA146 and supplemented them with additional certification rules.
RSPO certification is based on DIN EN 17065, but includes additional specific requirements, which are described in document AA158.
Verifications within the framework of EU emissions trading (e.g. emissions reporting) are based on the requirements of the European Accreditation and Verification Regulation. For areas not regulated by law (carbon footprint), the verification procedure is carried out in accordance with the requirements of ISO 14064-3. A detailed description of both procedures can be found in document AA147.
The approval of providers and measures in accordance with AZAV is based on ISO 17065. This standard specifies the requirements for bodies that certify products. The exact certification process is described in AA144 (provider approval) and AA157 (measure approval).
For inspections in accordance with the EEG, an environmental verifier, preferably one located near you, will be commissioned to carry out the assessment. The environmental verifier will contact you to arrange the mandatory on-site appointment. The on-site inspection can take place between October and February. In preparation for the on-site inspection, you will provide the environmental verifier with some documents in advance. During the inspection, the environmental verifier will take a close look at your plant.
Once you have submitted all the necessary documents to the environmental verifier, your report will be completed so that you can forward it to your energy supplier by the deadline of 28 February.
