Useful Links

International Accreditation Service (IAS)

The International Accreditation Service (IAS) is a prominent, non-profit, third-party accreditation body headquartered in Brea, California, USA, operating under the umbrella of the International Code Council (ICC). Established with a mission to promote public confidence and trust in conformity assessment systems, IAS provides globally recognized accreditation services to a wide range of organizations including testing and calibration laboratories, inspection agencies, certification bodies, personnel certification programs, and product certification agencies. With a strong commitment to upholding international standards, IAS conducts rigorous assessments to ensure that accredited organizations maintain technical competence, integrity, and impartiality in their operations. As a signatory to internationally respected bodies such as the International Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation (ILAC), International Accreditation Forum (IAF), and Asia Pacific Accreditation Cooperation (APAC), IAS plays a vital role in facilitating global trade, regulatory compliance, and consumer protection by endorsing reliable and credible certification, testing, and inspection processes worldwide.

International Accreditation Forum (IAF)

The International Accreditation Forum (IAF) is the worldwide association of accreditation bodies and other organizations involved in conformity assessment, with the primary mission to ensure that certificates of conformity (such as ISO certifications) are credible, reliable, and internationally recognized. Headquartered in the United States, IAF plays a pivotal role in building trust across global markets by promoting the mutual recognition of accredited certification, thereby facilitating international trade and reducing technical barriers. IAF oversees the competence and impartiality of accreditation bodies that accredit organizations providing certification, inspection, and validation/verification services in line with international standards, such as ISO/IEC 17021 for management systems, ISO/IEC 17065 for product certification, and ISO/IEC 17020 for inspection bodies. Through its Multilateral Recognition Arrangements (MLAs), IAF enables the acceptance of accredited certificates worldwide, ensuring that businesses and regulators can rely on conformity assessments performed in any member country. IAF works closely with global organizations such as ISO, ILAC, and UNIDO, contributing to the development of robust, harmonized systems that support quality, safety, environmental protection, and regulatory compliance across all sectors.

Pakistan National Accreditation Council (PNAC)

The Pakistan National Accreditation Council (PNAC) is the national apex body responsible for providing accreditation services in Pakistan, operating under the administrative control of the Ministry of Science and Technology, Government of Pakistan. Established to enhance the quality infrastructure of the country, PNAC plays a critical role in promoting competence, reliability, and international recognition of conformity assessment bodies including certification bodies, inspection agencies, testing and calibration laboratories, and medical laboratories. PNAC offers accreditation in accordance with globally recognized standards such as ISO/IEC 17020, ISO/IEC 17021, ISO/IEC 17025, ISO/IEC 17024, and ISO 15189, ensuring that Pakistani institutions meet the requirements of international trade, regulatory compliance, and consumer protection. As a signatory member of regional and international bodies such as the International Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation (ILAC), Asia Pacific Accreditation Cooperation (APAC), and International Accreditation Forum (IAF), PNAC’s accreditations are globally accepted, thereby boosting the export competitiveness of Pakistani products and services. Through its robust assessment process and continual surveillance, PNAC contributes significantly to building trust in the quality, safety, and reliability of goods and services produced or certified in Pakistan.

International Organization for Standardization (ISO)

 The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) is an independent, non-governmental international organization that develops and publishes voluntary, consensus-based international standards to ensure quality, safety, efficiency, and interoperability across industries and sectors. Established in 1947 and headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, ISO is composed of a network of national standards bodies from over 170 member countries, with each country represented by one official standards body (such as PSQCA in Pakistan). ISO standards cover a wide range of areas including management systems (e.g., ISO 9001 for quality, ISO 14001 for environment, ISO 27001 for information security), products, technology, services, and processes, helping organizations improve performance, meet regulatory requirements, and enhance customer satisfaction. Through its rigorous and inclusive development process, ISO brings together experts from around the world to share knowledge and reach agreements that reflect global best practices. ISO plays a pivotal role in facilitating international trade, innovation, and sustainable development by providing universally accepted frameworks and benchmarks. ISO-certified organizations gain recognition for their commitment to excellence, operational efficiency, and continual improvement, making ISO standards a cornerstone of modern business and governance globally.

National Examination Board in Occupational Safety and Health (NEBOSH) 

The National Examination Board in Occupational Safety and Health (NEBOSH) is a UK-based, globally recognized awarding body that provides a wide range of qualifications in the field of health, safety, environmental, and risk management. Established in 1979, NEBOSH qualifications are highly respected by employers and professionals across industries and are designed to improve workplace safety and environmental management standards. NEBOSH offers certifications from foundation level to professional diplomas, with the NEBOSH International General Certificate (IGC) being one of the most sought-after qualifications worldwide. NEBOSH courses combine theoretical knowledge with practical application, equipping learners with the skills needed to manage workplace risks effectively and ensure compliance with health and safety legislation. Accredited training providers deliver NEBOSH courses globally, and successful candidates are recognized for their competence and commitment to promoting a safe and healthy working environment.

Highfield Awarding Body for Compliance (HABC)

Highfield Awarding Body for Compliance (HABC), now widely recognized as Highfield Qualifications, is a UK-based, Ofqual-regulated awarding organization that provides internationally recognized qualifications, training, and certification in various sectors, including food safety, health and safety, security, fire safety, first aid, hospitality, education and training, and compliance. Established with a commitment to raising professional standards and enhancing workforce skills, Highfield is one of the UK’s leading awarding bodies, with qualifications developed to meet both national regulatory frameworks and global industry requirements. Highfield works in collaboration with government bodies, employers, and training providers to ensure its qualifications are current, practical, and relevant to real-world workplace needs. With a global network of approved training centres and delivery partners, Highfield’s certifications are respected and recognized by employers, educational institutions, and regulatory bodies across the world. Known for its rigorous quality assurance processes and learner-focused approach, Highfield plays a key role in promoting excellence, safety, and compliance in professional training and education globally.

Pakistan Standards and Quality Control Authority (PSQCA)

The Pakistan Standards and Quality Control Authority (PSQCA) is the national standardization body of Pakistan, operating under the Ministry of Science and Technology. Established with the mandate to formulate, implement, and monitor national standards for quality assurance, PSQCA plays a vital role in improving the quality, safety, and competitiveness of products and services in the country. It is responsible for developing Pakistan Standards (PS), conducting product certification, and overseeing the quality control of imports and locally manufactured goods. PSQCA operates through its technical divisions including Standards Development Centre, Quality Control Centre, and System Certification Centre, offering conformity assessments such as ISO certification, Halal certification, and product testing. By aligning with international best practices and maintaining memberships with global organizations such as ISO, IEC, OIML, and SMIIC, PSQCA ensures that Pakistani products meet international standards, thereby facilitating trade, protecting consumers, and supporting industrial growth.

Lifting Equipment Engineers Association (LEEA)

The Lifting Equipment Engineers Association (LEEA) is the globally recognized leading representative body for all those involved in the lifting equipment industry, including manufacturers, suppliers, service providers, and end users. Established in 1944 in the United Kingdom, LEEA has grown into a prestigious, international membership organization committed to promoting the highest standards of safety, technical competence, and professional development in the lifting and rigging sector. LEEA provides training, certification, audits, and technical guidance to ensure its members comply with the latest legislation, codes of practice, and industry best practices. Membership in LEEA is a mark of quality and credibility, as the association enforces strict entry criteria, regular audits, and continuing professional development. LEEA plays a critical role in improving global safety standards by working closely with regulators, industry bodies, and stakeholders to influence policy and set benchmarks for excellence in lifting operations. Its certifications and qualifications are respected worldwide, making LEEA a key authority in ensuring safe and effective lifting operations across construction, manufacturing, logistics, oil & gas, mining, and many other industries.