UPDATE - issue number 112 |
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Welcome to the 112th edition of UPDATE, the quarterly newsletter from the United Kingdom Accreditation Service. This newsletter contains a general update covering UKAS activities and other important developments in the field of accreditation. |
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House of Lords reception: how the National Quality Infrastructure supports better regulation |
UKAS was delighted to host its House of Lords reception on Tuesday 17 December 2024. This annual event represents an opportunity for UKAS to connect with colleagues across government, industry, professional bodies and its member organisations.
The British Standards Institution (BSI) and the National Physical Laboratory (NPL) partnered with UKAS to showcase how the tools of the National Quality Infrastructure can support the reception’s theme of better regulation. This theme explored how accreditation, standards and metrology underpin market frameworks and support regulation across the economy and public services, promoting innovation, safety and international trade. |
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Accreditation and the UK's National Quality Infrastructure - addressing changing markets and technology |
In this interview with Craig Watson, Deputy Director, Borders, Accreditation, Measurement and Standards Policy at the Office for Product Safety and Standards, we find out more about the history of the working relationship between government and UKAS and how OPSS supports UKAS as the National Accreditation Body for the UK.
This article also describes how OPSS and UKAS have worked together in order to maximise the opportunities arising from digitalisation as UKAS works to improve its systems through digitalisation. |
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UKAS secures continued international recognition |
UKAS accreditation boosts confidence in UK conformity assessment, trade, and product reliability. A peer evaluation in November 2024 assessed UKAS’s competence and commitment to global standards. This article explains the peer evaluation process and the role of MLAs in strengthening UK trade. |
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Enhancing accreditation through scheme integrity |
Scheme integrity is essential in ensuring reliability and confidence in accredited services. UKAS plays a key role in recognising and assessing these schemes, working with stakeholders to uphold high standards and ensure accreditation continues to be a trusted mark of quality and competence. |
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COP29 - harnessing accreditation for credible climate solutions |
As the world reflects on the outcomes of COP29, UKAS remains committed to supporting global climate action through accreditation. Attending the conference for the second consecutive year, UKAS worked to ensure that accreditation was recognised as a vital tool in delivering trust and credibility in environmental, energy, and sustainability (EES) efforts. |
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This article explores the summit’s key outcomes and UKAS’s role in shaping credible environmental, energy, and sustainability efforts. |
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Global accreditation moves forward with the Global Accreditation Cooperation Incorporated |
The creation of the Global Accreditation Cooperation Incorporated, a new global accreditation organisation that will merge the International Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation (ILAC) and the International Accreditation Forum (IAF), has moved closer following the official registration of the organisation as a legal entity and an incorporated society in New Zealand. |
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Accelerating digitalisation in conformity assessment: challenges, opportunities and next steps |
Digital transformation is reshaping industries worldwide, and the Conformity Assessment sector is no exception. As businesses and stakeholders increasingly seek efficiency, transparency, and alignment with international trends, accredited Conformity Assessment Bodies (CABs) must adapt to meet these evolving needs. Find out how UKAS is supporting this digitalisation journey. |
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Standards and assurance help us "Connect To Prosper" |
Alderman Professor Michael Mainelli (Lord Mayor of the City of London 2023-24) outlines his "Connect To Prosper" mayoralty theme, highlighting its vision for global collaboration and economic growth. He explores how its six initiatives support international standards to drive trust, innovation, and sustainability. |
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Reflections on a year as Lord Mayor of the City of London |
Reflecting on his tenure as the 695th Lord Mayor of the City of London, Michael Mainelli discusses the key challenges and achievements of his term. He highlights ongoing efforts to promote standards and accreditation as essential tools for strengthening global trade and fostering international collaboration. |
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UKAS Training Academy - required, desired and inspired learning |
In 2025, the UKAS Training Academy is sharpening its focus on elevating industry standards through targeted education and development initiatives.
By refining our training programmes, we aim to empower professionals across various sectors to achieve higher levels of competence and integrity. |
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Our expert-led courses are designed to enhance quality, safety, and operational efficiency, ensuring participants are well-versed in both technical knowledge and the practical application of international standards. We remain committed to listening to our customers and adapting our offerings to meet evolving industry needs. |
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Read our latest case study - CIBSE Certification |
Discover how CIBSE Certification leveraged UKAS accreditation to grow its potential marketplace, meet customer expectations, and secure new opportunities. Accreditation has become a key differentiator for the business, with many clients specifying it as a minimum requirement in tenders. |
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Raising standards in pathology: the UKAS Contracted Assessor |
UKAS Contracted Assessors play a pivotal role in enhancing pathology services by ensuring compliance with rigorous accreditation standards. Find out more about the responsibilities and impact of these independent experts in maintaining high-quality pathology practices for the wider healthcare sector. |
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There are a number of exciting career opportunities at UKAS, across a wide range of technical specialities. Whether you're looking for a full-time role as an Assessment Manager or self employment as a Technical Assessor, explore all our vacancies on the UKAS website. |
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