UKAS Accredited Bodies Profile
The United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS) is the sole national accreditation body for the United Kingdom, recognized by the UK government to assess and accredit organizations providing certification, testing, inspection, and calibration services. UKAS accreditation is the gold standard for ISO certification bodies operating in the UK market.
What UKAS Accreditation Means
Government-recognized authority means UKAS accreditation carries regulatory weight in the UK. Many government procurement contracts and regulatory requirements specify UKAS-accredited certification, making it essential for organizations operating in regulated sectors.
International recognition through IAF and EA multilateral recognition arrangements means UKAS-accredited certifications are accepted globally. A UKAS-accredited ISO 27001 certificate is recognized in every IAF member country.
Rigorous assessment standards ensure that UKAS-accredited bodies maintain the highest levels of competence, impartiality, and operational integrity. UKAS conducts regular assessments and witness audits to verify ongoing compliance.
Choosing a UKAS Accredited Body
Verify accreditation status through the UKAS online directory before engaging any certification body. Key selection criteria include industry experience, auditor availability, geographic coverage, and pricing. Major UKAS-accredited bodies for ISO 27001 include BSI, LRQA, NQA, Intertek, and SGS.
Pricing Expectations
ISO 27001 certification through UKAS-accredited bodies ranges from GBP 6,000 for small organizations to GBP 35,000+ for large enterprises. Surveillance audits cost 30-40% of the initial certification. Cyber Essentials Plus starts at approximately GBP 2,500.
Who Should Choose UKAS Accredited Bodies
All UK organizations seeking ISO management system certifications should use UKAS-accredited bodies, particularly those serving government clients or operating in regulated sectors. UKAS accreditation provides the highest level of market credibility in the United Kingdom.