Accreditations For Tenders
Accreditations Found Within Tenders
It is commonplace to see tender documents stipulate that bidders are required to hold some sort of certification or a number of accreditations, particularly for public sector contracts. Having the necessary certification in place can sometimes mean the difference between success and failure, so it’s vital that suppliers keep on top of the key accreditations for tenders and memberships available to their sector.
With this in mind we have looked to list some of the key accreditations, starting with generic standards which aren’t sector specific. Those relating to specific sectors are subsequently listed in alphabetical order.
ISO Accreditations For Tenders
Common questions we are asked regarding ISO accreditations and tenders are:
- Do you need to be ISO accredited for tenders?
- How often does a tender as for an ISO?
- Which is the most requested ISO in tenders?
- How much does ISO9001 cost?
- How long does it take to become ISO9001 accredited?
- Why do tenders ask for ISO9001?
We regularly see ISO accreditations being stipulated in tender documents. Usually, ISO9001 is the most requested, followed then by ISO14001 and ISO27001. Bidders are normally either asked if they have it or, in a small amount of cases, asked if they commit to becoming accredited if successful with their tender. Always check to see if holding the ISO accreditation at the time the tender is submitted is a pass/fail requirement. If it is, your bid will fail if you do not evidence that you hold the accreditation. Tenders often ask for ISO accreditation as it underpins your commitment and demonstrates competency in areas such as quality management, approach to the environment/sustainability and quality/security of your IT system.
Get a Quote For ISO9001 and CyberEssentials
If you would like us to arrange a quote for you on ISO9001, ISO14001, ISO27001 or CyberEssentials please get in touch with us. Our team will then reach out and discuss your requirements.
Generic Accreditations For Tenders
Please click the accreditation name for a link directly through to their website
BSI Group – The UK’s national standards body, producing and certifying technical standards on a wide range of products and services.
Contractors’ Health & Safety Assessment Scheme (CHAS) – A scheme that verifies that suppliers meet required health and safety standards. One of the most common accreditations for tenders.
Cyber Essentials – A UK government backed scheme set up to certify a businesses cyber security measures. All suppliers bidding for government contracts which require the handling of certain sensitive information may require certification.
Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) – An UK independent authority set up to uphold information rights in the public interest, promoting transparency by public bodies and data privacy for individuals.
International Organization for Standardisation (ISO) – ISO standards are agreed standards applied across a range of deliverables and processes. For those seeking ISO accreditation, please visit our ISO Accreditation For Tenders page for how we can help you get ISO accredited.
SafeContractor – SafeContractor accreditation verifies that suppliers meet specific health and safety standards.
Safety Schemes in Procurement (SSIP) – This is an umbrella organisation facilitating mutual recognition between a number of independent health and safety assessment schemes.
Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) – Formally known as Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) checks, DBS checks look at an individual’s past and criminal history.
Accreditations By Sector
Cleaning
British Institute of Cleaning Science (BICSc) – An independent professional and educational body within the cleaning industry.
Construction / Electrical / Engineering
Constructionline – Constructionline accreditation scheme for suppliers working within the construction industry.
Gas Safe Register – The UK’s official gas registration body, regulating gas businesses and engineers.
National Inspection Council for Electrical Installation Contracting (NICEIC) – Assesses and certifies contractors working across the building services sector.
Education
Education and Training Inspectorate (ETI) – The education and training inspectorate for Northern Ireland
Education Scotland – The body responsible for supporting the improvement of Scotland’s education system, responsible for inspecting quality and standards within Scottish establishments.
Estyn – The education and training inspectorate for Wales.
Ofsted – Independent inspectors and regulators of education and training providers in England.
Grounds Maintenance
British Association of Landscape Industries (BALI) – Leading trade association for UK landscape professionals.
Health & Social Care
Care & Social Services Inspectorate Wales (CSSIW) – Independent regulator of health and social care services in Wales.
Care Inspectorate – Independent regulator of health and social care services in Scotland.
Care Quality Commission (CQC) – Independent regulator of health and social care services in England.
Data Security & Protection Toolkit (DSP Toolkit) – Formally known as the Information Governance Toolkit (IG Toolkit) the DSP Toolkit is an online self-assessment tool that must be used by all organisations holding NHS patient data.
Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) – Helps employers background check members of staff.
Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority (RQIA) – Independent regulator of health and social care services in Northern Ireland.
Recruitment
Association of Professional Staffing Companies (APSCo) – International trade body for the professional recruitment sector.
Investors in People – Accreditation to organisations meeting standards for people management.
Recruitment & Employment Confederation (REC) – Recognised awarding organisation for the recruitment industry.
Transportation & Logistics
British International Freight Association (BIFA) – Organisation representing UK freight forwarders. Also responsible for setting industry standards.
Construction Logistics and Community Safety (CLOCS) – National standard managing work related road risk.
Fleet Operator Recognition Scheme (FORS) – A national voluntary accreditation scheme for fleet operators.
The above lists aren’t exhaustive so call us on 0116 218 2700, contact us via our chat function, or visit our CONTACT US page to find out how we can assist with your tender today.