The Product Certification Scheme is a scheme through which manufacturers are granted permits to mark their products with the National Standards Mark, providing they are capable of conforming to the relevant Guyana Standards on a continuous basis.
Before certification can take its course, the following must be in place:
There are three procedures to be followed for the granting of a permit under the GNBS Certification Scheme.
(1) Granting of Permit
This procedure is suitable for clients applying for permits to use the Standards Mark and comprises application, preliminary inspection, audit and approval. At the application stage, the client completes an application form and submits it to the Bureau. If the application is successful, a preliminary inspection is conducted to determine the client’s capabilities of meeting the requirements of the scheme. The client is notified about deficiencies and upon correction, a final audit is conducted. The audit report is taken to the Certification Committee and then to National Standards Council for approval of permit.
(2) Surveillance
After granting the permit, surveillance inspections are conducted on a quarterly basis to ensure ongoing conformity. In this procedure, the inspection is planned, conducted and reported. Follow-up inspections are done if major non-conformances are highlighted.
(3) Renewal of Permit
Usually, an expiry date is affixed to permits granted depending on the safety and health hazards associated with the product. This procedure is similar to the granting of Permits with the omission of the preliminary inspection stage.
BENEFITS OF PRODUCT CERTIFICATION
Product certification instills confidence in those who may have an interest in product compliance with specified requirements during selection and identification of quality products.
Product certification provides increased access to international markets through conformance to accepted standards, hence imposing a positive image on the product and its country of origin.
The use of the Standards Mark on products is a marketing advantage.
Local companies are encouraged to certify their products to national and international standards by accessing the product certification scheme offered by the GNBS which would increase consumer confidence and satisfaction in their products.
For further information please contact the GNBS on telephone numbers: 219-0064, 219-0065, 219-0066.
