Reception convened by the Secretary of State for Scotland highlights Scotland’s Quality Infrastructure – boosting innovation, trust, and fair and safe markets.

6 May 2025: A Westminster reception at Dover House, hosted by the Secretary of State for Scotland, brought together parliamentarians, business leaders, regulators, and standards bodies. The event explored how Scotland’s quality infrastructure—accreditation, standards, and enforcement—supports growth, innovation, and trust in markets.

Held in partnership with UKAS (United Kingdom Accreditation Service), BSI (British Standards Institution), and SCOTSS (Society of Chief Officers of Trading Standards in Scotland), the reception showcased how these three elements work together to support economic growth, safety, sustainability, productivity, and consumer confidence. Key sectors highlighted included renewable energy, AI, construction, and consumer protection.

The Rt. Hon. Ian Murray MP, Secretary of State for Scotland, said: “Scotland’s quality infrastructure – accreditation, standards, and enforcement – can make a huge contribution to the UK Government’s Plan for Change. Scotland has always punched above its weight in innovation, expertise, and leadership. And behind every success story are the systems that protect people and businesses alike. It was a real pleasure to welcome UKAS, BSI, and SCOTSS to Dover House to celebrate the role they play in helping Scotland grow and trade.”

Lord Jamie Lindsay, Chairman, United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS), said: “In a fast-moving world, trust matters more than ever. Accreditation provides confidence that testing, inspection, and certification services are competent, impartial, and consistent, enabling innovation while managing risk. Events like this are a valuable reminder that trust isn’t automatic; it’s earned, underpinned by robust infrastructure.”

Scott Steedman CBE, Director-General, Standards, BSI, said: “Standards are a catalyst for growth and an engine for trade and innovation. Used strategically, standards increase economic growth rates, deliver quality, enhance consumer safety, and help deliver the net zero transition in the UK and around the world.

“However, standards are just one part of the national quality infrastructure that actively manages how the market functions in practice and can deliver remarkable advantage, creating optimum conditions for market success. BSI is working hard to raise awareness of this valuable resource and engagements such as this Dover House reception will help us do just that.”

Alexandra Connell, Chair, SCOTSS, said: “Enforcement is where good intentions meet reality. Trading Standards services across Scotland work hard every day to make sure that the protections set out in law and standards are real, practical, and meaningful. Collaboration across enforcement, accreditation, and standards helps ensure that businesses can thrive and consumers can trust the products and services they rely on.”

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UKAS is collaborating with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the UN’s lead agency on international development. UNDP works in over 170 countries and territories to eradicate poverty, reduce inequality, and support countries in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).  

As part of a wider UNDP initiative to accelerate investment towards achieving the SDGs, the SDG Impact Standards Assurance Scheme aims to provide a robust framework to guide and validate SDG-aligned investment and business practices. 

The SDG Impact Standards are designed to embed the SDGs into all core business and investment decision-making processes, positioning sustainability at the heart of enterprise operations. In support of this, UKAS intends to develop an accreditation programme under ISO/IEC 17065:2012 for organisations wishing to offer accredited certification against the UNDP SDG Impact Standards. 

Those organisations that submit an expression of interest will be invited to attend a meeting with other interested parties where the terms of the project will be discussed including proposed timelines or phasing that may be required.  

What is a UKAS accreditation project? 

An accreditation project is an essential step in extending UKAS’s accreditation offerings. As these standards have not previously been subject to accredited conformity assessment, UKAS undertakes a structured development process to evaluate their applicability and establish a proportionate and effective assessment methodology. This activity involves collaboration with interested certification bodies to refine the accreditation approach, ensuring it aligns with industry needs and best practices. 

Express your interest 

UKAS would like to hear from organisations and technical experts that may wish to either become an accredited certification body or support UKAS as a stakeholder to provide expertise and support to the development of this accreditation. 

Organisations that wish to learn more or participate in the project for accredited certification against ISO/IEC 17065:2012 are requested to contact developmentenquiries@ukas.com by 20 June 2025 and provide the following information: 

• Name of organisation. 

• Confirm whether your interest is in assisting with the development of the assessment/or as a potential conformity assessment applicant. 

• Status of any current accreditation or certification. 

Please note that submitting an expression of interest does not indicate any commitment to participate in the project on the part of the interested parties nor does the acceptance of an expression of interest commit UKAS to accept the interested party on any future project. 

Your participation in this accreditation project provides a unique opportunity to shape the future of accredited certification for these standards. Enabling accreditation in these areas is a vital part of UKAS’s mission to support safe and sustainable innovation across all elements of society.  

By fostering robust and internationally recognised accreditation frameworks, UKAS ensures that organisations can confidently implement best practices, drive continuous improvement, and contribute to a more secure and responsible business environment. UKAS looks forward to working collaboratively with certification bodies to develop accreditation frameworks that drive trust and confidence across industries. 

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On 20 May 2025, the global community marks a remarkable milestone: 150 years since the signing of the Metre Convention — a pivotal agreement that laid the foundation for the International Bureau of Weights and Measures (BIPM) and the global coordination of measurement science. It marked the beginning of a shared international approach to metrology, culminating in the development of the International System of Units (SI) — the universal language of reliable measurement.

This year’s World Metrology Day pays tribute to that legacy, celebrating a century and a half of scientific collaboration and measurement harmonisation. For UKAS, this moment is doubly meaningful, as 2025 also marks our 30th anniversary as the UK’s National Accreditation Body.

Together, these anniversaries remind us of the enduring partnership between metrology and accreditation — and how they continue to work side-by-side to underpin confidence in an increasingly complex world.

Measurement you can trust, accreditation you can rely on

Metrology is present in every aspect of our lives — in the fuels we consume, the medical treatments we receive, the food we eat, and the buildings we live and work in. But it is the assurance of competence and impartiality, provided through accreditation, that gives weight to these measurements in practice.

UKAS accredits a wide range of testing and calibration laboratories to internationally recognised standards such as ISO/IEC 17025, helping ensure the reliability, and global comparability of measurement results. This in turn supports fair trade, regulatory compliance, innovation, and public safety.

“Metrology provides the science and standards that enable reliable measurements. Accreditation ensures that those making the measurements are competent and impartial. Together, they create a system the world can trust. As we celebrate 150 years of the Metre Convention and 30 years of UKAS, we’re reminded of the value of this partnership in supporting safety, innovation and confidence — not just for today’s challenges, but for those still to come.”
— Richard McFarlane, Head of Technical Coordination, UKAS

Looking ahead: a future grounded in trust

While the Metre Convention was signed in a very different world, its principles — international cooperation, harmonisation of systems, and trust in data — are more relevant than ever. Today, metrology is evolving rapidly to keep pace with new demands in climate science, digital transformation, AI, nanotechnology and quantum standards. Measurement at these frontiers will require continued collaboration between scientific institutions, national laboratories, and accreditation bodies to maintain integrity and relevance.

Likewise, as UKAS looks ahead to the next 30 years, our role in supporting a safe, sustainable and innovation-ready economy is growing. Whether it’s assuring the validity of hydrogen fuel measurements, underpinning AI management system certification, or verifying sustainability claims through robust conformity assessment, UKAS will continue to adapt — while upholding the core principle that confidence must be earned through competence.

A shared legacy, a shared responsibility

From its beginnings in 1875 to its far-reaching role today, the Metre Convention represents more than a system of units — it represents a shared global commitment to trust in measurement. As part of the UK’s Quality Infrastructure, UKAS is proud to carry that commitment forward.

As we celebrate 150 years of metrology and 30 years of accreditation excellence, we reaffirm our partnership with the metrology community — and our mission to support society’s need for trusted, assured, and forward-looking conformity assessment.

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Celebrating Earth Day 2025: Our Action, Our Planet

As we celebrate Earth Day 2025, this year’s theme – “Our Action, Our Planet” – calls on us to accelerate the safe and efficient transition to renewable energy. Ensuring the quality, safety and reliability of clean energy technologies is crucial in achieving this goal. Accreditation plays a key role by providing confidence in the testing, certification and inspection of renewable energy systems, ensuring they meet the necessary standards for efficiency, reliability and environmental sustainability.

Renewable energy performance testing, verification and installation inspection

UKAS accredits testing of environmental performance and environmental efficiency, which is essential for evaluating renewable energy technologies. This testing, examples of which include wave and tidal machines and wind turbines, helps determine the performance of devices used in the harnessing and monitoring of both traditional and renewable energies. It is particularly important in ensuring that new technologies, such as tidal, wind, and solar energy, meet industry standards and operate effectively in real-world conditions.

Testing and inspection of renewable energy installations

Maintaining efficiency and safety in renewable energy installations requires rigorous testing and inspection. UKAS accredits testing and inspection bodies that evaluate the performance and durability of renewable energy technologies, ensuring they meet strict regulatory and industry standards.

A key example is the European Marine Energy Centre (EMEC) in Orkney, which has been UKAS-accredited since 2005. EMEC conducts open-sea testing for wave and tidal energy converters, providing independently verified performance assessments that help bring reliable marine energy solutions to market.

UKAS also accredits inspection bodies that provide services to wind turbine installations, which play a crucial role in ensuring the safety, reliability, and operational efficiency of wind energy infrastructure. Accredited inspections cover:

• Structural integrity assessments to verify turbine stability and resistance to environmental conditions.
• Blade and component testing to detect wear, cracks, and defects that could compromise performance.
• Electrical and mechanical inspections to ensure turbines are functioning safely and efficiently.
• Environmental impact assessments to ensure compliance with sustainability regulations and best practices.

By providing confidence in the quality and performance of renewable energy installations, accredited testing and inspection services help accelerate the adoption of clean energy technologies and support the transition to a Clean Power future.

UKAS also assesses quality assurance schemes that certify small-scale renewable energy technologies, such as solar panels and wind turbines. UKAS accredits certification bodies under this type of scheme, ensuring that both installers and products meet high industry standards. This accreditation enhances consumer confidence, promotes best practice, and supports the widespread adoption of renewable energy technologies—contributing to the Earth Day goal of increasing reliance on clean energy sources.

Accredited certification supporting renewable energy

Accredited certification plays a critical role in supporting the renewable energy sector by ensuring that organisations implement and maintain robust management systems that drive sustainability, efficiency, and environmental responsibility. UKAS accredits certification bodies to assess compliance with internationally recognised standards, providing confidence that businesses operate to the highest quality benchmarks. This ensures that organisations engaged in renewable energy and environmental sustainability can demonstrate their commitment to responsible energy use, emissions reduction, and long-term environmental stewardship.

Key examples include:

Energy Management Systems (ISO 50001)

UKAS accredits conformity assessment bodies that certify against ISO 50001, the international standard for energy management systems. Accredited certification provides a structured framework for organisations to monitor, control, and continuously improve their energy usage. By achieving ISO 50001 certification, businesses can enhance energy efficiency, lower operational costs, and reduce their carbon footprint—supporting the transition to a low-carbon economy.

Accredited certification ensures that energy management systems are rigorously evaluated by competent and impartial bodies, increasing trust in their effectiveness. Unlike non-accredited certification, which may lack oversight and consistency, accreditation guarantees compliance with internationally recognised standards, reinforcing accountability and delivering tangible energy savings.

Beyond individual business benefits, ISO 50001 certification encourages widespread energy-efficient practices, helping industries, governments, and communities collectively reduce reliance on fossil fuels. This aligns with Earth Day’s mission to take meaningful action for the planet by prioritising responsible energy use and supporting the integration of renewable energy sources.

Environmental Management Systems (ISO 14001)

Effective environmental management is crucial in the renewable energy sector. UKAS provides accreditation for certification bodies assessing organisations against ISO 14001, the standard for environmental management systems. [5] Accredited certification ensures that organisations systematically manage their environmental responsibilities, reducing waste, minimising pollution, and improving overall environmental performance.

Accredited ISO 14001 certification helps organisations build trust with stakeholders, investors, and the public by demonstrating their commitment to environmentally-sound operations. By embedding environmentally conscious practices into their business models, certified organisations contribute to a cleaner and greener planet. The standard also supports companies working in renewable energy by ensuring they operate responsibly, comply with regulatory requirements, and continuously improve their environmental impact.

UKAS’s role in shaping the future of clean energy

UKAS is actively engaged in a wide range of projects  – supporting future policy development, as well as industry-driven action on clean, renewable energy. Examples include UKAS’s collaboration with UK government on the design and roll out of the UK’s low-carbon hydrogen (H2) approach; work on heat networks and energy smart appliances; and more broadly, involvement in the UK Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) and the proposed scope extensions to the UK Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS), which accreditation has supported since its inception.

To inform such effort, UKAS representatives sit on key task forces, including the H2 Delivery Council’s Certification Working Group and the Net Zero Government Regulators Forum. Participation in such direction-setting groups ensures that accreditation is recognised as a critical governance tool and a credibility mechanism within policy frameworks and initiatives that enable the shift to a sustainable economy powered by clean energy.

These strategic engagements position UKAS at the heart of renewable energy innovation, ensuring that future energy solutions are underpinned by rigorous standards and accredited assurance approaches that deliver confidence, reliability, and sustainability.

Our commitment to a sustainable future

UKAS is committed to supporting the renewable energy sector through robust accreditation. By creating confidence in the quality, safety, and environmental credentials of products, services, actions and claims, accreditation enables the transition to a cleaner and more sustainable world.

 

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As UKAS celebrates 30 years as the UK’s National Accreditation Body, we are proud to highlight the contributions of Gerald Hudd—an experienced professional in asbestos and radiation monitoring who has dedicated 25 years as a contracted technical assessor. Now stepping back from regular assessment work, Gerald continues to contribute his expertise through his role on the UKAS Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) for Asbestos.

From Chernobyl to contracted assessor

Gerald’s journey with UKAS began long before he formally joined as a technical assessor in 1999. His first involvement dates back to 1986, when he worked at Somerset County Council and collaborated with UKAS (then NAMAS) to support radiation monitoring in the aftermath of the Chernobyl disaster. That early experience laid the groundwork for his later focus on asbestos management—a discipline he was originally told would be resolved “in a few years,” but which became a defining part of his career.

Over two decades, Gerald expanded the Council’s asbestos team, taking a lead role in establishing rigorous procedures and maintaining early voluntary UKAS accreditation for asbestos testing, well before it became mandatory. As the need for air monitoring and bulk analysis accreditation grew, so did Gerald’s involvement with UKAS. Eventually, he trained as a contracted technical assessor, and by 2010, he was working regularly with UKAS through his own company, RADPROS Ltd.

A technical role with a human touch

Gerald describes the technical assessor role as a “deeply rewarding” part of his career. His work focused on ensuring organisations met the stringent requirements of ISO/IEC 17025, particularly in high-risk, high-precision areas like asbestos air monitoring and bulk analysis.

Site visits and practical assessments were a key part of the role, allowing Gerald to observe procedures in real-world settings. “The technical side is crucial, but so are people skills,” he explained. “It’s about making people feel comfortable enough to do their work naturally, so you can assess their competence fairly and accurately.”

He also noted that the role often involves challenging situations—from navigating complex documentation like LAB 30 and RG8, to supporting nervous participants during on-site assessments. “It’s not just about ticking boxes. It’s about engaging with people, seeing how systems operate in practice, and ensuring everything is underpinned by a culture of competence.”

Shaping standards through the Technical Advisory Committee

Gerald continues to lend his expertise to UKAS through the Asbestos Technical Advisory Committee (TAC), where he represents the perspective of contracted assessors. He was encouraged to join the group by UKAS colleague Wendy Smith (Head of Healthcare), and values the diverse perspectives it brings together—from UKAS and HSE to external experts.

“The TAC plays a vital role in shaping the policies and procedures that underpin accreditation,” he said. “It’s about ensuring they are not only technically sound but also realistic and reflective of what’s happening on the ground.”

Supporting the next generation of assessors

Although Gerald has stepped back from regular assessments, he remains available to support UKAS with urgent or short-notice work. He is also keen to help identify and encourage new assessors to join the profession.

“This is specialist work, and it needs the right people,” he explained. “You need a well-rounded understanding of the sector, relevant qualifications—like a certificate of competence in asbestos—and strong interpersonal skills. It’s also important to understand the practicalities, like being able to travel and spend time away from home.”

His advice to aspiring technical assessors? “Speak to someone doing the role. Ask questions. Understand what’s involved before committing—but if it suits your skillset, it can be one of the most interesting and rewarding roles out there.”

The value of accreditation—and a look to the future

Looking ahead, Gerald sees significant value in the continued expansion of accreditation in the asbestos sector. He believes that making accreditation mandatory for asbestos surveying—currently only recommended—would lead to more consistent standards across the industry.

“The difference between accredited and non-accredited organisations is clear,” he said. “Accredited bodies have to follow defined procedures, demonstrate technical competence, and undergo regular assessment. That kind of oversight helps raise the bar across the board.”

As UKAS celebrates three decades of setting and maintaining those high standards, Gerald’s story is a powerful reminder of the expertise and dedication that underpin the accreditation system—and of the vital role that technical assessors play in protecting health, safety, and quality in high-risk environments like asbestos management.

If you’re interested in working with UKAS as a technical assessor, please contact technicalresources@ukas.com to find out more.

 

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UKAS is the UK’s sole National Accreditation Body, appointed by the government to assess organisations that provide certification, testing, inspection and calibration services. As such, UKAS is the only organisation in the UK that can offer and grant accreditation to recognised quality standards.

UKAS has been delivering accreditation for diagnostic imaging services since 2010. Services are currently accredited to BS 70000:2017, a recognised national standard that provides a strong quality framework across the complete diagnostic imaging pathway and for all imaging modalities. UKAS accreditation to BS 70000:2017 is widely accepted as meeting the requirements of commissioning tenders.

Organisations and commissioning bodies are encouraged to continue to utilise UKAS accreditation for diagnostic imaging. It brings national and international recognition, supports confidence in imaging pathways, and enables a harmonised approach across multiple healthcare areas. This, in turn, can support cost-saving benefits and operational efficiencies.

The use of UKAS accreditation in healthcare continues to expand across a wide range of services. It supports informed and effective purchasing decisions, promotes good governance, and helps maintain public confidence in healthcare delivery.

Accreditation provides an independent, risk-based assessment of a service’s impartiality, quality, safety, and competence. It offers assurance to commissioners, stakeholders and service users of proactive risk management, continuous quality improvement, value for money, CQC recognition, and accuracy of results. Ultimately, UKAS accreditation helps ensure that healthcare services are safe, effective, and reliable.

Useful links:

• UKAS website
• Accreditation of Diagnostic Medical Imaging

Contact: info@ukas.com

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UKAS has signed a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Human Tissue Authority (HTA), reinforcing the collaborative relationship between the two organisations in support of quality, safety, and public confidence in services involving human tissue.

The MoU sets out how UKAS and the HTA will continue to work together to share information, reduce duplication, and support the regulation and accreditation of establishments involved in areas such as tissue banking, post-mortem examination, and transplantation.

UKAS Chief Executive Matt Gantley commented:

“This agreement reflects our shared commitment to upholding the highest standards of care, dignity, and scientific integrity in services involving human tissue. Collaboration between regulators and the national accreditation body plays a key role in strengthening public confidence in these vital services. We are pleased to formalise this important relationship with the HTA.”

Dr Colin Sullivan, Chief Executive of the Human Tissue Authority said:

“Our Memorandum of Understanding with UKAS – the national accreditation body for testing, inspection and certification services – is focussed on matters of common or shared interest in relation to our regulatory work. Both HTA and UKAS prioritise quality and safety of health and care services, which is recognised in our Memorandum of Understanding.”

The agreement supports the effective delivery of assurance in areas where both regulation and accreditation are required. By working closely together, UKAS and the HTA aim to ensure a consistent and coordinated approach to oversight—ultimately benefiting both service providers and the public they serve.

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UKAS, with the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), would like to invite laboratories to express an interest to join the initial extension to scope process for asbestos bulk identification testing. This would deliver accreditation by UKAS to perform a deviating method for the identification of asbestos in bulk materials against the conformity assessment requirements of ISO/IEC 17025:2017 and UKAS document LAB 30. This will also reflect an adjusted HSG 248 edition 2 method process that would be published before any grant of accreditation to support this testing methodology.

This programme presents an opportunity for laboratories to demonstrate their testing capabilities under ISO/IEC 17025:2017 accreditation dependent on the material type in question.

To express an interest, organisations will need to respond by email to developmentenquiries@ukas.com by 30th June 2025. Please title emails with “Expression of Interest – HSG 248 2 points NAD”.

Please note that participation in this initial extension to scope exercise is welcome from existing accredited organisations or those currently applying for identification of asbestos in bulk materials.

Organisations that wish to participate are asked to provide the following information:

• Name of organisation
• Status of any current accreditation
• Number of analysts currently authorised for identification of asbestos in bulk materials
• Number of sites currently authorised for identification of asbestos in bulk materials
• Any changes to the sites and analysts planned in the immediate future
• Laboratory throughput of samples – annual positive and negative sample numbers
• The sample tracking system in use for analysis e.g. TEAMS

To support this process UKAS will host a webinar for interested organisations on 6th May 2025 at noon. This will include an introduction presentation and a Q&A session. It will also be recorded for viewing at a later date and Q&A published for public viewing. We will discuss the finalised category as set out below, assessment approach and review and expansions an organisation will need to make to quality systems.

Successful applicants will be accredited to undertake a deviating process on a selection of material types where applicable and suitable for that testing.  This extension to scope will make absolutely no change to the UKAS schedule of accreditation or any contract or report for the identification of asbestos in bulk materials and is purely an internal process. Any inappropriate marketing or misrepresentation of this scope would result in immediate sanctions being imposed on the organisation.

Technical Assessing support requirements are expanding as the asbestos industry evolves and accreditation requests are increasing, therefore UKAS welcomes applications from experienced analysts/surveyors with industry accepted qualifications and a commitment to upholding the ISO quality principles applicable. Please see our website for full details Technical Assessors – Asbestos.

UKAS is currently gauging the potential level of interest in this area to allow for suitable resource planning and confirmation of timelines. Please note that submitting an expression of interest does indicate a commitment to progress this extension to scope during 2025 and, on inclusion of this deviating methodology in HSG 248 Edition 2, an extension to scope will be submitted.  Any future application timeline would be subject to assessor availability and is dependent on the readiness of the organisation for an assessment.

Cost

Estimated costs for this extension to scope are:

AM – 0.5days office

TA – desktop review with extensive evidence of implementation 0.75days office

A site assessment soon after implementation will be required of a minimum of 0.5days office and 0.5days site additionally for the Technical Assessor. This level of effort is expected to be required annually after the grant of accreditation and will be dependent on the number of analysts and throughput of samples.

This proposal from the HSE was finalised and agreed at the UKAS Technical Advisory Committee on 19th September 2024 for dissemination here for all interested parties:

NAD HSE proposal Bulk ID final draft May 24

Please also find a draft version of the UKAS declaration to support an organisation submitting the extension to scope

 

 

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Every year, World Health Day serves as a global reminder of the importance of accessible, high-quality healthcare. In 2025, the theme Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures focuses on maternal and infant health, highlighting the need for safe, effective, and equitable care for mothers and newborns. Ensuring positive health outcomes in this area requires robust systems that prioritise accuracy, reliability, and patient safety.

Accreditation plays a fundamental role in achieving these goals. It supports a range of antenatal and newborn screening services, each of which plays a vital role in early detection of health conditions that could impact a child’s development and well-being. These screenings help identify potential risks, allowing for timely interventions that can improve health outcomes. However, the accuracy and reliability of these tests are paramount—false positives can cause unnecessary distress, while false negatives can lead to missed diagnoses and delayed treatments.

Through independent assessment against internationally recognised standards, accreditation provides assurance that healthcare services meet stringent quality and safety benchmarks. UKAS works with healthcare providers, including NHS Trusts and private hospitals, to uphold trust and competence across a range of services, ensuring that patients receive care that is both safe and effective.

In the UK, antenatal/newborn screening services are accredited to ISO 15189:2022 Medical Laboratories – Requirements for quality and competence, which is mandatory in England. This accreditation ensures that laboratory testing, including antenatal blood screening, is carried out by competent professionals using validated methods that meet international standards.

In addition, UKAS supports infant screening programmes through accreditation to a range of relevant standards. For example, paediatric audiology services are assessed under the Improving Quality in Physiological Services (IQIPS) standard, helping to ensure accurate early detection of hearing issues. Meanwhile, ultrasound screening, which plays a crucial role in both antenatal and newborn care, is accredited under BS 70000, ensuring technical competence and quality management in the delivery of these services.

Together, these accreditations underpin trust in early screening assessments, contributing to more accurate diagnoses, timely interventions, and ultimately healthier futures for families.

The role of accreditation in healthcare safety and excellence

Accreditation provides a structured framework for quality assurance, ensuring that healthcare organisations operate in line with the robust requirements of international standards for competence and integrity. This is particularly vital in medical fields where accuracy, precision, and risk management are critical.

Key benefits of accreditation in healthcare include:

• Patient safety – Ensuring that services follow rigorous clinical protocols, reducing errors and improving outcomes.
• Consistency and reliability – Validating that diagnostic tests and procedures provide dependable and reproducible results.
• Professional competence – Verifying that healthcare professionals have the required skills and expertise.
• Regulatory confidence – Supporting compliance with national and international healthcare regulations.

As the UK’s National Accreditation Body, UKAS assesses healthcare organisations against nationally and internationally recognised standards, including ISO and BS standards (such as BS 70000), to ensure they provide services that patients and healthcare professionals can trust.

Accreditation’s role in improving maternal and infant healthcare outcomes

Accreditation is more than a mark of quality—it actively contributes to improving patient outcomes by driving continuous improvement and accountability in healthcare settings. Some of the key ways accreditation supports maternal and infant health include:

• Early Detection and Intervention – Ensuring timely identification of conditions such as congenital heart defects, metabolic disorders, or genetic conditions, allowing for early treatment.
• Evidence-Based Practices – Promoting adherence to internationally recognised guidelines that lead to safer and more effective healthcare delivery.
• Enhanced Patient Confidence – Empowering parents to trust the medical advice and test results they receive, reducing anxiety and improving the overall patient experience.
• Collaboration and Innovation – Encouraging knowledge sharing between accredited bodies, leading to improvements in screening methodologies and healthcare practices.

As part of its commitment to healthcare excellence, UKAS continues to work alongside healthcare providers, such as NHS Trusts, private hospitals, and specialist screening services, professional bodies such as the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG), the Institute of Physics and Engineering in Medicine (IPEM), and the British Maternal & Fetal Medicine Society (BMFMS), and policymakers, including the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC), NHS England, and the UK National Screening Committee (UK NSC), to support accreditation frameworks that enhance maternal and infant care.

This World Health Day, as we focus on Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures, it is an opportunity to recognise the role of accreditation in ensuring high standards of patient care, particularly in maternal and infant health services.

By upholding rigorous standards, UKAS plays a crucial role in advancing the quality and reliability of healthcare services, contributing to better health outcomes for mothers and newborns alike.

For healthcare providers looking to enhance the quality and credibility of their services, accreditation is not just a requirement—it is a powerful tool in shaping a healthier future. Find out more about how UKAS accreditation underpins patient safety and care here.

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UKAS is working to understand and support how Conformity Assessment Bodies (CABs) can embrace digitalisation.

Digital transformation offers significant opportunities for the conformity assessment sector — from improving efficiency and consistency, to strengthening trust and transparency across supply chains. However, this shift also presents challenges and the pace and scope of change can vary significantly between organisations.

To help CABs prepare for the future, UKAS is engaging with a wide range of stakeholders and subject matter experts to explore how digital technologies are influencing assurance activities — and how the sector can respond.

Why digitalisation matters

Digitalisation has the potential to transform the way conformity assessment services are delivered. The benefits include:

• Improved efficiency – automating routine processes and reducing manual effort.
• Better data quality – enabling more consistent, traceable, and timely information.
• Enhanced customer experience – through streamlined interactions and faster turnaround times.
• Greater resilience and scalability – supporting remote delivery, integration, and innovation.

However, the transition to digital processes must also consider issues such as security, impartiality, and the continued competence of personnel. Understanding these complexities is essential to ensure that digitalisation supports — rather than undermines — the integrity of conformity assessment.

UKAS’s role

UKAS is committed to:

• Raising awareness of how digitalisation is shaping the future of assurance.
• Facilitating collaboration across the conformity assessment and standards communities.
• Exploring regulatory and technical implications to inform guidance and best practice.
• Encouraging innovation while safeguarding trust in accredited services.

As part of this work, UKAS has developed a series of resources and case studies to support CABs on their digitalisation journey.

Access digitalisation resources

To support CABs at every stage of their digital transformation, UKAS has developed a free eLearning module: Digitalisation Readiness Insights.

This short, self-paced online course is designed to:

• Raise awareness of what digitalisation means in the context of conformity assessment
• Highlight the opportunities and challenges digital technologies present
• Help CABs consider how prepared they are for digitalisation

The module is ideal for those just beginning to explore digital tools as well as organisations already on their digital journey. It offers practical insights to help you assess your readiness and plan next steps with confidence.

Start the course today and take the next step towards a more digital future.

 

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NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde’s (NHSGGC) Biorepository has become the first centre in the UK to achieve UKAS accreditation against the ISO 20387:2018 ‘general requirements for biobanking’ standard.

The Biorepository, based on the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital campus, stores and provides access to a wide range of human tissue for use in valuable medical research by doctors and scientists who are studying a range of diseases, including cancer, autoinflammatory diseases and Alzheimer’s.  The team of 13, led by Biorepository Manager Clare Orange, handles around 90 requests for tissues per year, which come from academic and commercial researchers conducting medical research.

Clare explained that the UKAS accreditation acts as a marker for the Biorepository’s quality, governance and high standards.  She said: “Biobanking is playing an increasingly pivotal role in a wide variety of scientific and medical research fields, where the quality, consistency and traceability of biological materials is paramount.

“I’m delighted that NHSGGC is the first organisation to receive UKAS accreditation for biobanking, reflecting the tremendous dedication and capability of the entire Biorepository team.

“This accreditation will help build confidence and provide assurance to researchers and commercial partnerships, and reinforces NHSGGC’s position as a centre of innovation in healthcare.  It also epitomises our drive to lead the biobanking field and further enhances our reputation amongst our scientific and research colleagues, as well as our commitment to deliver high standards of patient care.”

Louise Sanders, Head of Development at UKAS, said: “ISO 20387 is the only holistic framework for assessing and maintaining consistent quality control and integrity in every aspect of biobanking, making it a critical benchmark for the scientific and medical research fields.

“Accreditation to ISO 20387 demonstrates the impartiality, operational competence and the embedding of best practices throughout biobanking operations.  Not only does this give confidence to stakeholders and researchers in the quality, reliability and usability of biomedical materials, it makes an important contribution to the broader scientific and medical research communities.”

ISO 20387 is the first standard to comprehensively address specific biobanking challenges and requirements.  It covers the collection, transportation, preparation, preservation and traceability of human, animal, plant, fungal and microorganism samples.

Accreditation against ISO 20387 rigorously assesses the quality management, technical competence and ethical considerations of biobanking organisations, as well as the associated security, risk and data management provisions.

 

The post NHSGGC Biorepository awarded UK’s first UKAS accreditation for biobanking appeared first on UKAS.

The Department for Business and Trade (DBT) has published updated guidance on the recognition of UKCA and CE product markings in Great Britain. This follows the introduction of The Product Safety and Metrology Regulation (Amendment) 2024, which came into effect on 1 October 2024 and continues the recognition of EU requirements, including the CE marking, for a range of products placed on the GB market. 

To provide greater clarity to businesses on how they can make use of this approach, DBT has released new guidance outlining the requirements for placing products on the GB market. Links to this guidance are provided below: 

• Policy paper: Continued recognition of EU requirements for conformity assessed marking 

• Guidance: Make use of recognition of EU requirements to place products on the GB market 

• Guidance: Product regulations and current approaches to product marking 

• Guidance: Using harmonised standards for placing CE marked products in Great Britain 

These updates provide essential information for businesses navigating UK product regulation requirements. UKAS will continue to monitor developments in product conformity assessment and provide updates where relevant. 

For further information, visit the Department for Business and Trade website. 

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As the United Kingdom’s National Accreditation Body, UKAS plays a vital role in supporting conformity assessment across both regulated and non-regulated sectors. This ensures the reliability of the products and services that the UK depends on while also promoting trade and supporting exports. As such, UKAS’s international activities are key to strengthening the UK economy.

UKAS’s role as the national accreditation body places it within a global network of accreditation organisations, representing the UK’s interests on international platforms. These forums, such as the European co-operation for Accreditation (EA), the International Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation (ILAC), and the International Accreditation Forum (IAF), help ensure the consistent application of conformity assessment standards worldwide. This, in turn, provides confidence in the reports and certificates issued by accredited bodies.

This global recognition is facilitated through multilateral (or mutual) recognition arrangements (MLAs), where accreditation bodies demonstrate their competence in accordance with the international standards for the operation of accreditation bodies (ISO/IEC 17011: 2017). Just as conformity assessment bodies (e.g., laboratories, certification bodies, inspection bodies) are assessed for competence by UKAS, accreditation bodies themselves undergo rigorous peer evaluations by experts from other accreditation organisations.

UKAS is a long-standing signatory to the MLAs managed by EA, ILAC, and IAF. This status, held for over 25 years, ensures that UKAS’s accreditation services are recognised as equivalent to those of other accredited bodies worldwide. Consequently, reports and certificates from UKAS-accredited organisations are also internationally recognised. Routine peer assessments, including the most recent EA evaluation in November 2024, ensure that UKAS maintains this high standard.

During the November evaluation, a team of 11 experts spent a full week assessing the competence of UKAS’s staff and the effectiveness of its services. The evaluation covered the organisation’s management systems, policies, procedures, and their implementation across the range of fields in which it is active, such as testing, calibration, certification, inspection, and verification.

The findings of the evaluation were overwhelmingly positive, with the team praising UKAS for its transparency, openness, and the dedication of its management and staff. The team also commended the competence of UKAS staff in delivering quality accreditation services. However, there were a few minor areas where UKAS policies were found not to be in full compliance with some of the accreditation requirements. These related primarily to the way UKAS presents the scopes of its accreditations.

Since the evaluation, UKAS has been actively reviewing and addressing these findings. Actions are being implemented to ensure full compliance, and UKAS will provide evidence of these improvements to the evaluation team in the coming weeks.

At the evaluation’s closing meeting in November, the evaluation team confirmed that, subject to successful evidence submission, it shall be recommending that UKAS remain a signatory to the EA MLA, with official ratification by the EA’s Multilateral Agreements Council (MAC) expected to be made in early 2025. As the EA is a ‘Recognised Region’ under both ILAC and IAF, this will automatically ensure the continued validity of UKAS’s signatory status with these organisations as well.

Lord Lindsey, UKAS Chairman, congratulated the UKAS team on this achievement, recognising the significant benefits it brings to the UK, especially in reducing technical barriers to trade and enhancing international recognition of UKAS’s accreditation services.

The post UKAS maintains international recognition, boosting UK trade and confidence in UK conformity assessment appeared first on UKAS.

Required, desired and inspired learning

Who we are

The UKAS Training Academy provides training solutions that foster excellence, quality, and professionalism in various industries. We bring decades of expertise and a deep understanding of accreditation standards to our training programmes. Our commitment is to equip professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to operate at the highest levels of competence and integrity.

Our trainers are industry leaders and subject matter experts who bring real-world experience into the classroom. Through interactive learning experiences, we ensure that our participants are not only well-versed in the technical knowledge they require but are also thoroughly proficient in the practical application of appropriate international standards wherever possible.

The Commercial Training team at UKAS is made up of a core team that collaborates with a wider team of industry experts and UKAS colleagues.

Our purpose

At the core of the UKAS Training Academy lies a clear and unwavering purpose: to elevate industry standards through education and development. We believe that by empowering individuals and organisations with the right tools and knowledge, we can drive significant improvements in quality, safety, and operational efficiency across various sectors and support individuals’ professional development.

By doing so, we contribute to the broader mission of UKAS, which is to build confidence and trust in the products and services that people rely on every day.

Listening to our customers

In a rapidly evolving business environment, it is crucial to stay attuned to the needs and expectations of our customers. At the UKAS Training Academy, we place great emphasis on listening to our customers and incorporating their feedback into our strategic planning and programme development.

We employ various methods to gather customer insights, including surveys, focus groups, and direct consultations. By leveraging these insights, we can identify emerging trends, address gaps in our training programmes and introduce new topics that are of interest to our customers.

We would love to hear your thoughts and if you are interested in joining our soon-to-be-launched Training working group, please add your details so we can get in touch.

The UKAS Training Academy is poised to be a beacon of excellence in the realm of professional training and development. Our structured and focused approach, coupled with our unwavering commitment to customer-centricity, positions us uniquely to support our customers in achieving their goals.

As we move forward, we remain dedicated to our mission of empowering individuals and organisations through education. By listening to our customers and adapting to their needs, we will continue to drive positive change and uphold the highest standards of quality and professionalism.

View our current training calendar to join us on this exciting journey as we pave the way for a brighter future, one training session at a time.

 

The post UKAS Training Academy – new focus for 2025 appeared first on UKAS.

Over the past few years UKAS has issued public Expression of Interests (EoI) for the consideration of running pilot programmes for the accreditations of Certification Bodies to offer certification to BS99001: 2022 The Built Environment Quality Management Systems and ISO 37301:2021 Compliance Management Systems — Requirements with guidance for use.  The feedback from these indicated that there was only limited interest and therefore were not taken forward at that time.

We have also recently had enquiries in respect to possible accreditation of certification bodies to deliver certification to ISO 56001:2024 Innovation management system — Requirements.

As these standards have not previously been the subject of accredited conformity assessment, UKAS would need to undertake a development project to confirm the applicability of the standard and also to establish a robust and proportionate assessment approach. UKAS is initiating an EoI for ISO56001: 2024 and revisiting the situation with BS99001: 2022 and ISO 37301:2021 to gauge the level of interest there may now be from bodies who want to certify organisations against the individual standards.

Therefore, please could you confirm/ reconfirm if you have interest in one or more of these standards to UKAS (developmentenquiries@ukas.com) by the end of June 2025 as well as following information:

1. The number of clients/estimated number of clients you have for (each of) this standard?
2. For the standard in which you have interest the geographical location(s) where accredited certificates will be issued (solely UK, Solely Europe, Office outside of Europe)?
3. The number of non-accredited certificates issued for the standard (s) and into which countries?
4. The date by which you envisage your clients being ready for
   1. A Stage 1 audit.
   2. A Stage 2 audit
5. Details of how you scope the certifications and please provide some example certificates. This will assist in the development and implementation of accreditation in this potential new area.

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