International 2 mins read

Global accreditation moves forward with GLOBAC

The creation of the Global Accreditation Cooperation (GLOBAC), a new global accreditation organisation that will merge the International Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation (ILAC) and the International Accreditation Forum (IAF), has moved closer following a key vote by ILAC and IAF members.

On Wednesday, October 9, the Chairs and Vice-Chairs of ILAC and IAF officially began the registration process of the Global Accreditation Cooperation (GLOBAC) in New Zealand, with representatives from both organisations present. This milestone follows the successful approval of the GLOBAC Constitution and General Rules by the members of ILAC and IAF through a positive vote.

As a key contributor to the global accreditation landscape, UKAS recognises the importance of this development. The merging of ILAC and IAF into GLOBAC signals a significant advancement toward streamlining accreditation processes globally. UKAS has long supported the ILAC and IAF Mutual Recognition Arrangements, which facilitate the mutual acceptance of accredited results and certificates across national borders, reinforcing the goal of “accredited once, accepted everywhere.”

The creation of GLOBAC represents an important step toward enhancing international cooperation and promoting trust in accreditation across the world. UKAS will continue to play an active role in shaping the future of global accreditation, and further details on the new GLOBAC organisation are expected to be released in the coming months.