There are many reasons an organization would choose to undergo a scope expansion. Perhaps your organization has updated a method with new technology or equipment, or your customers are asking for a service you already provide to be accredited. Maybe industry regulators have updated their requirements or you’re just simply expanding your offerings to build your business.
Regardless of the reason, we often see these common questions about scope expansions and the process of adding new things or changing your scope. If you don’t see your question listed below, you can always reach out to your A2LA Accreditation Officer for answers!
1. What is a scope expansion?
A scope expansion is the process of expanding or changing your current scope of accreditation outside of the two-year assessment cycle for accreditation renewal.
2. When can I request a scope expansion?
You can request a scope expansion at any time. A scope expansion can occur for many different reasons, such as adding new tests/parameters, adding a satellite facility, major organizational changes, change in essential personnel, relocation, changing items on the scope, updates to the version of an accredited method, etc.
3. How do I request a scope expansion?
To request a scope expansion, log in to your customer portal and find the “Scope Expansion Request” tab in the upper right-hand corner on the home page. Navigate to this tab and follow the steps to submit the necessary information.
4. What happens after I submit my scope expansion request?
Once the scope expansion request is submitted in the portal, your designated Accreditation Officer will review the application to ensure it is complete. Then, they assign an assessor to conduct the review. In most instances, your previous assessor will be assigned to complete the scope expansion review unless they are unable. Your designated Accreditation Officer will also reach out to the most recent assessor to confirm the logistics (billable hours, remote or onsite observation, or a desk audit) of the review.
5. What’s the difference between a scope expansion and interim assessment?
- All scope expansions are submitted through the customer portal in the same manner. However, based on what is being changed and the necessary depth of review needed, A2LA may classify them as either a scope expansion assessment or an interim assessment.
- A scope expansion is when the assessor(s) of record determines the request does not include the addition of new technology, measurement technique(s), or scheme(s).
- An interim assessment occurs when the assessor(s) of record determines the request does include the addition of new technology, measurement technique(s), or scheme(s).
- The information required for review may vary between the two types of classifications. The assigned assessor and your Accreditation Officer will help clarify what needs to be provided depending on the type of review.
Please note that each scope expansion request will vary and will be handled depending on the details of the changes. Contact your Accreditation Officer (AcO) at any time for questions or clarification about the scope expansion process. If you’re not sure who your Accreditation Officer is or don’t have their contact information, it can be found in the customer portal.