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ISO VS IAF – THE COMPLETE GUIDE FOR BUSINESSES IN PAKISTAN

Key differences between ISO and IAF

In the competitive world of modern business, credibility is the key to growth. Whether you operate a manufacturing unit in Faisalabad, a tech startup in Karachi, or a construction firm in Islamabad, your ability to win contracts, expand into international markets, and build customer trust often depends on recognized certifications.

Two organizations frequently mentioned in the certification world are ISO and IAF. To many business owners, these terms sound similar — but in reality, they represent two completely different roles in the global conformity assessment system.

At Burraq Consulting, we help businesses understand these differences so they can make informed certification decisions. Selecting the wrong certification path could mean your investment in certification doesn’t deliver the market recognition you expect.

In this article, we’ll explain in detail:

  • What ISO and IAF are
  • Their objectives and frameworks
  • Key differences between ISO and IAF
  • Regulations and legal implications in Pakistan
  • How their hierarchy works
  • Risks of non-IAF certification
  • Best practices for businesses
  • Real examples from the Pakistani market
ISO vs IAF

What is ISO?

ISO stands for International Organization for Standardization. It is a non-governmental, independent international body that develops and publishes standards to ensure quality, safety, efficiency, and interoperability across industries.

Key Facts About ISO

  • Founded in 1947, headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland.
  • Over 170 national members, one per country.
  • Covers management systems, product standards, safety guidelines, and technical specifications.

Important: ISO does not certify companies. It only publishes the standards. Certification is carried out by independent certification bodies.

What is IAF?

IAF stands for International Accreditation Forum. It is the global association of accreditation bodies that ensures certification bodies are competent, impartial, and globally recognized.

Key Facts About IAF

  • Focuses on accreditation, not standard creation.
  • Maintains the IAF Multilateral Recognition Arrangement (MLA) — a global system where member countries accept each other’s accredited certifications.
  • Works to eliminate trade barriers by ensuring trust in certifications across borders.

In Pakistan, the Pakistan National Accreditation Council (PNAC) is the IAF member.

Key Differences Between ISO and IAF

Aspect ISO IAF
Nature Developer of international standards. Overseer of global accreditation.
Core Function Writes the “rulebook” (standards). Ensures the “referees” (certifiers) are competent and credible.
Direct Certification Does not certify. Does not certify.
Partners National standard bodies & technical experts. National accreditation bodies like PNAC.
Output Standards (e.g., ISO 9001, ISO 14001). Accreditation recognition via MLA.

💡 Analogy:

  • ISO = University that designs the syllabus.
  • IAF = Education board that ensures examiners are qualified and results are recognized worldwide.
ISO vs IAF

ISO’s Objectives

  • Develop Global Standards – From quality management (ISO 9001) to occupational health and safety (ISO 45001).
  • Ensure Interoperability – Facilitate global trade by harmonizing practices.
  • Improve Quality & Safety – Encourage best practices that protect consumers, workers, and the environment.

IAF’s Objectives

  • Ensure Certification Credibility – Verify that certification bodies operate with impartiality and technical competence.
  • Promote Global Recognition – Through the MLA, an ISO certificate issued under one IAF member is recognized in all member countries.
  • Prevent Fake or Low-Quality Certification – By controlling the accreditation process.

Frameworks and Regulations

ISO Framework

  • Standard Development – Through technical committees, subcommittees, and working groups.
  • Annex SL – A common structure for management system standards (makes integration of multiple standards easier).
  • Voluntary Nature – ISO standards are not laws unless referenced in legal or regulatory frameworks.

IAF Framework

  • Membership – National accreditation bodies (e.g., PNAC, UKAS, ANAB).
  • ISO/IEC 17011 – The standard that accreditation bodies must comply with.
  • Peer Evaluation – IAF checks members’ compliance to ensure mutual trust.

Certification & Accreditation Hierarchy

  1. ISO – Creates the standard (e.g., ISO 14001).
  2. IAF – Oversees the accreditation ecosystem.
  3. Accreditation Bodies – National-level authorities like PNAC in Pakistan.
  4. Certification Bodies – Independent companies that audit and certify organizations.
  5. Organizations – Businesses implementing ISO standards.

Legal Context in Pakistan

In Pakistan:

  • PNAC operates under the Ministry of Science and Technology.
  • Many government tenders require ISO certificates from PNAC-accredited certification bodies.
  • Some export markets reject non-IAF certificates.

This makes IAF recognition essential for exporters and companies aiming for multinational contracts.

Risks of Non-IAF Certification

  • International Rejection – Many countries don’t recognize non-IAF certificates.
  • Tender Disqualification – Local and international tenders often mandate IAF-accredited certificates.
  • Reputation Risk – Perception of low quality or “fake” certification.
  • Wasted Investment – You may need to re-certify with an IAF-accredited body later.

Case Studies

Case Study 1 – Export Manufacturer in Sialkot

A sports goods manufacturer obtained ISO 9001 certification from a non-IAF accredited body to save costs.

  • When bidding for an EU contract, their certificate was rejected.
  • They had to re-certify via a PNAC-accredited body, costing twice the original amount.

Case Study 2 – Construction Company in Karachi

A construction firm sought ISO 45001 to meet a government tender requirement.

  • They hired Burraq Consulting for full implementation.
  • We guided them to an IAF-accredited certification body through PNAC.
  • Result: Certificate accepted without queries, tender awarded.

Practical Steps for Businesses

  1. Choose the Right ISO Standard – Based on your industry (e.g., ISO 22000 for food safety).
  2. Implement with Expert Help – Avoid superficial documentation; focus on real process improvements.
  3. Select an IAF-Accredited Certification Body – Check on IAF or PNAC’s website.
  4. Prepare for Audits – Conduct internal audits and management reviews.
  5. Maintain Certification – Stay compliant for surveillance audits.

Burraq Consulting’s Role

We offer end-to-end ISO consulting:

  • Gap Analysis – Identify missing requirements.
  • Training – Equip your team with the knowledge to maintain compliance.
  • Documentation – Develop SOPs, policies, and records as per ISO requirements.
  • Audit Preparation – Conduct mock audits.
  • Accredited Certification – Connect with PNAC/IAF-accredited bodies only.

Conclusion:

Understanding the roles of ISO and IAF is critical for businesses that want their certification to be globally credible and commercially valuable.

At Burraq Consulting, we make sure your ISO journey is more than just paperwork — we ensure it becomes a competitive advantage. From selecting the right standard to connecting you with IAF-accredited certification bodies, we’re your trusted partner in compliance and growth.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Yes, typically after three years, with annual surveillance audits.

Yes, but it’s risky for international trade and tenders.

No — ISO creates standards; IAF oversees accreditation.

Certification bodies accredited by PNAC (IAF member) issue them.