UPDATE - issue number 114 |
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Welcome to the 114th edition of UPDATE. This (now monthly) email newsletter from the United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS) is designed to keep you more regularly informed about UKAS activities and other significant developments in the field of accreditation. |
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A world of confidence since 1995 |
On Monday 30 June, UKAS marked its 30th anniversary with a special customer reception in London. The event brought together customers, stakeholders and senior employees to celebrate three decades of building confidence in accreditation and to look ahead to the future. Guests heard speeches from Lord Lindsay, UKAS Chair, who reflected on the organisation’s heritage and enduring values; Hanane Taidi, Director General of the TIC Council, who spoke about the international perspective and the importance of collaboration; and Matt Gantley, UKAS Chief Executive, who outlined UKAS’s vision for meeting the challenges and opportunities of the years ahead. |
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UKAS's Head of Marketing welcomes monthly UPDATE |
As UKAS celebrates its 30th year, we’re stepping up our communications by making UPDATE a monthly newsletter. This change reflects our commitment to providing you with timely, trusted information about accreditation, guidance, training and more. Learn how UPDATE is evolving and what it means for you from UKAS's Head of Marketing and Communications, Claire Widd. |
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Accreditation milestone for The Survivors Trust |
The Survivors Trust has become the first organisation to gain UKAS accreditation for the inspection of charities that provide specialist support to survivors of sexual violence and childhood abuse. This milestone follows four years of collaboration through a unique pilot programme and sets a new benchmark for quality and confidence in survivor support services. |
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UKAS and NATA sign MoU to boost international cooperation |
UKAS and Australia’s National Association of Testing Authorities (NATA) have signed a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to deepen collaboration, share expertise and support trade between the UK and Australia. The agreement reinforces their long‑standing partnership and highlights the vital role of accreditation in building confidence across borders. |
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Face to face learning with the UKAS Academy |
Summer is the perfect time to step back from the day-to-day and invest in your development. In her latest article, Michelle Tindale, Head of Commercial Training, explains why face-to-face learning remains so valuable; offering enhanced connection, clarity and practical insight. Discover what makes UKAS Academy training unique, and explore upcoming summer courses designed to help you build confidence and capability. |
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UKAS Technical Bulletin on use of AI in conformity assessment |
UKAS has published its first Technical Bulletin outlining key principles for accredited bodies adopting Artificial Intelligence (AI). Covering topics from governance and bias mitigation to transparency, competence and risk management, the guidance helps ensure AI is deployed responsibly within conformity assessment. Find out why this marks a pivotal moment for industry and UKAS moving forward. |
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UKAS maintains EA signatory status following peer evaluation |
Following a rigorous peer evaluation, UKAS has maintained its signatory status under the European co‑operation for Accreditation (EA) Multilateral Agreement.
This important recognition ensures that UKAS‑accredited certificates and reports continue to carry international credibility, supporting trust, trade and acceptance across European and global markets. |
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Build your understanding of ISO/IEC 17020 with the UKAS Academy |
The two-day, virtually delivered ISO/IEC 17020 Awareness Course provides a clear introduction to the international standard that underpins accredited inspection activities. Delivered by experienced UKAS trainers, the course explains the purpose, scope and requirements of ISO/IEC 17020:2012 and how it applies to inspection bodies of all types.
This virtual course is accessible wherever you are. Whether you’re new to inspection, managing an accredited service, or preparing for accreditation, this training provides the essential knowledge you need. |
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Driving credible climate action at London Climate Action Week |
At London Climate Action Week, UKAS and BSI unveiled a dedicated hub aimed at advancing trust in climate efforts through accredited standards and assurance. The hub showcases how robust conformity assessment supports credible, market‑aligned climate action, reflecting UKAS’s commitment to sustainability leadership in a rapidly evolving landscape. |
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Accreditation: Empowering Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) |
In celebration of World Accreditation Day on 9 June, UKAS explored how accreditation serves as a powerful enabler for small and medium-sized enterprises. Covering tools, webinars and funding insights, the article highlights how accreditation helps SMEs compete globally, enhance resilience and demonstrate trust to customers and regulators. |
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The value of UKAS-accredited asbestos inspection services |
Asbestos remains one of the UK’s most serious occupational health risks, despite being banned since 1999. UKAS‑accredited inspection bodies help duty holders manage this risk safely and competently, providing assurance that inspections are impartial, reliable and aligned to international standards. |
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We’re hiring for a wide range of roles at all levels, from entry-level positions to senior leadership roles, across a variety of sectors. Whether your expertise lies in forensics, engineering, construction, aerospace, quality management or beyond, there are exciting opportunities to build your career with us. Explore our current vacancies, including both full-time roles and self-employed Technical Assessor positions, on the UKAS careers website. |
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