SIGMACERT – Impartiality and Independence Policy
SIGMACERT delivers its services—within its resources and infrastructure—impartially and independently within the borders of the Republic of Türkiye and within its defined geographical scope of responsibility. These services are provided equally to all interested parties, regardless of geography, social or political factors, sector, or industry, in accordance with the scope and procedures of its accreditation standards.
The SIGMACERT Conformity Assessment Body and its management do not engage in any activities that could compromise the principles of independence and impartiality during audit and certification activities. It conducts regular analyses and continuous reviews of situations that may affect its independence and impartiality.
SIGMACERT is committed to implementing and continually improving its management system, which has been established in accordance with the applicable accreditation standards, in a fair, impartial, and independent manner.
SIGMACERT recognizes the importance of Independence and Impartiality in the delivery of its Conformity Assessment Services and has conducted analyses to eliminate or mitigate any potential conflicts of interest to an acceptable level.
SIGMACERT does not provide consultancy services, either directly or indirectly, in any areas where it offers conformity assessment services. This principle is also registered in the Turkish Trade Registry Gazette.
Apart from Conformity Assessment Services, SIGMACERT offers Public Training Services, but does not offer in-house corporate trainings to avoid misperception as consultancy.
SIGMACERT does not provide any advantage to clients served through its representatives if they apply for certification services.
To maintain its independence, SIGMACERT applies a pricing policy that separates audit fees from certification fees. Any organization applying for certification may receive audit services. Certification will only be granted upon confirmation of compliance with the relevant standard(s). Organizations that do not fully meet the criteria during audits are only charged the audit fee. The audit and certification processes are considered related but functionally independent processes.
For all services, 50% of the fees are collected in advance, preventing financial pressure on SIGMACERT that could influence impartiality or independence.
When making certification decisions, independent experts who are not permanent staff of SIGMACERT may be included in the decision-making committee. These committee members are paid a modest review fee regardless of the decision outcome.
SIGMACERT keeps all customer information and documents confidential, except when disclosure is required by law to authorized individuals or authorities. All auditors, office staff, and other service providers are committed to confidentiality principles.
SIGMACERT does not perform certification in cases where its independence and impartiality may be compromised.
To manage its independence and impartiality, SIGMACERT conducts and regularly reviews analyses to address potential conflicts of interest, some of which are outlined in this policy.
01.03.2024
Mustafa Cihan – General Manager
