Glossary
Additional Audit. This is an audit used as a follow-up to a renewal, initial, appeal, or complaint audit,
and it may be required for the participant or applicant’s certification to continue or be granted.
Assessment. The act of evaluating quality, or ability of someone or something. The act of performing
the audit.
Audit. Independent and documented process for obtaining objective evidence and evaluating it to
determine the extent to which the criteria/requirements are fulfilled.
Continuation Audit. These audits are a continuation for a remote or site assessment.
Conditional Certification. A conditional certification may be granted when conditions do not provide for
the Stage 2 audit to be performed as a site assessment and it is to be conducted as and a remote
assessment is performed. This may occur for initial applications and scope change applications.
Demonstration of Capability. This is representative work that is of equal or greater complexity, follows
the QMS, and can be used to demonstrate capability for a certification program or endorsement as
required in the GRs and/or Supplements.
Document Assessment. This is a review of a Participant or Applicant’s quality manual and procedures
during the Recertification Audit (RF) to assess their ongoing compliance. A Documentation Assessment
may also be performed at the auditor’s discretion during a renewal audit if they deem it necessary to
assess the Participant’ or Applicant’s compliance with the GRs.
International. Any participant or applicant is considered international, if they are located outside the 50
states and the District of Columbia of the United States of America.
Mock-Exercise. This is a demonstration of capability that uses an approved exercise provided by AISC
Certification, not actual work, to demonstrate capability for a certification program or endorsement as
required in the GRs and/or Supplements.
Observers. They can be a participant or applicant’s members outside of the facility being certified,
consultants, regulators or justified personnel. They cannot influence or interfere in the audit process or
audit outcome. Observers are to be agreed upon by the participant or applicant, along with the audit
team.
Remote Assessment. This is an audit conducted remotely using technologies such as Zoom Meetings.
Site Assessment. This is an audit conducted in-person at a fabrication facility or erector’s jobsite and
main office.
Stage 1 Audit. This a documentation assessment to determine the readiness of a quality management
Governing Requirements for Certification Programs June 1, 2021
Supersedes all previous Governing Requirements Page 4 of 24